Rising Energy Costs in Illinois and Missouri: Why Now is the Time to Consider Solar
The Cost of Doing Nothing is increasing.
Let’s Break it down
Right now, you are essentially renting the electricity your home uses. Why do we say rent? Because you aren’t, and will never, own this energy. And to top it all off, utility companies can set the prices they charge for the electricity you use. For most of us, this means dealing with fluctuating and often rising electricity costs without the power to control or reduce them. As rates continue to rise, many homeowners are exploring alternatives to regain control over their energy expenses—and solar power is quickly emerging as a compelling solution.
Now, we know what you might be thinking: “Isn’t solar a scam?” It’s a fair question, and one that deserves an honest answer. Unfortunately, aggressive and often misleading sales tactics have left many with a bad taste when they hear the word solar. Early solar sales teams, especially those using door-to-door tactics, sometimes made big promises and flashy deals that weren’t realistic. They often handed off homeowners to companies that couldn’t deliver on those promises, leaving customers with unmet expectations.
But today, with stricter regulations, EPC’s emerging, as well as reputable, state-supported programs, solar has transformed into a viable, trustworthy option for affordable energy. Electricity rates in Illinois and Missouri have been steadily climbing due to infrastructure costs, increasing demand, and utility company regulations. In a landscape where homeowners can’t own or control their electricity, solar offers a way to lock in energy costs, achieve energy independence, and take advantage of available incentives.
Missouri Solar: Pricing, Incentives, and Benefits
Let’s talk about Missouri. Now, while it’s true that Missouri has some pretty decent electricity prices compared to the national average, the fact remains that those costs have been creeping up. You blink, and just like that, you find yourself wondering if there’s a better way to keep those bills in check. Well, let’s explore how solar energy can step in and help.
Here’s the good news: the cost of solar installations in Missouri has plummeted over the last decade—like a good deal on your favorite online shopping site. We’re talking about a more than 60% drop! That’s a pretty significant savings, and it’s making solar energy a serious contender for homeowners looking to lower their utility bills.
Now, if you’re thinking, “Sounds great, but what about the costs?” Well, let’s break it down. When you look at the financial incentives, things start to look pretty appealing.
Relevant Tax Breaks and Incentives for Missouri Solar:
- Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC): First up, you’ve got the federal solar tax credit. This allows you to deduct 30% of the total cost of your solar installation from your federal taxes. That’s real money back in your pocket!
- Local Rebates: Missouri has offered several incentives to make solar more affordable, but some of these are changing soon. Currently, Ameren Missouri offers rebates for solar installations, but these are set to end in 2025. This means that
- Net Metering: And don’t forget about net metering. This means if your solar system produces more energy than you use, you get to sell that excess back to the grid and earn credits on your bill. It’s like getting paid for being smart with your energy!
With these incentives in place, Missouri homeowners can see solar not just as a trend but as a smart investment. You’re not only protecting your wallet from those rising utility costs; you’re also taking a step towards energy independence.
Illinois Solar: Leading the Way in Renewable Energy Incentives
Illinois is on a mission to make solar energy accessible, and if you’ve been paying attention to rising utility bills, it’s time to take note. Illinois has made impressive strides toward renewable energy through programs that don’t just promote solar—they make it affordable and inclusive. In Illinois, solar isn’t some pipe dream; it’s a real, actionable way to gain control over your energy costs, especially as electricity prices continue to climb.
Illinois is setting a high bar with its solar initiatives, particularly the Illinois Shines program and Illinois Solar for All (ILSFA). These aren’t just flashy titles—they’re programs that make solar a reality for more Illinois residents.
- Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block Program): This initiative offers financial incentives through Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) that help offset the cost of solar installations. Homeowners who participate receive payments for the energy credits their solar system produces. Think of it as Illinois saying, “You’re helping us meet our renewable goals, so let’s share in the savings.” This program was launched as part of the Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA), which set aggressive targets for renewable energy expansion in Illinois.
- Illinois Solar for All (ILSFA): This program takes inclusivity seriously, targeting income-eligible families who can benefit the most from affordable energy. For qualified participants, ILSFA offers solar with no upfront costs, making solar a reality for households who may have thought it was out of reach. Supported by the Future Energy Jobs Act, ILSFA not only reduces energy bills but also empowers communities that need it most by creating a fairer approach to clean energy.
Financial Benefits and Additional Incentives
- Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC): Just like in Missouri, Illinois homeowners can apply for the federal solar tax credit to deduct 30% of their installation costs from their federal taxes. It’s a substantial benefit that makes solar more affordable
- Net Metering: Illinois offers a robust net metering policy that provides credits on your bill for any extra power you generate. This system lets you store up energy credits during sunny months and use them to offset costs when the days get shorter.
- Ameren Illinois Smart Inverter Rebates: Recently introduced, this rebate offers Illinois residents $300 per kW-DC for smart inverters used to connect renewable generators like solar panels to Ameren’s electric grid. For energy storage systems (ESS), such as home batteries, the rebate is $300 per kWh. This incentive is available to both current and future customers who install smart inverters or ESS, making solar even more accessible to Illinois homeowners.
- Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs): Under Illinois Shines, homeowners earn additional credits for each megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity generated by their panels. These credits translate to extra income, making solar an even more appealing choice.
In Illinois, the journey to solar is filled with opportunities to take back control, reduce energy bills, and make a real impact. These programs are not just about lowering costs—they’re about setting a new standard for what energy independence can mean, one household at a time. And when you choose solar in Illinois, you’re choosing to be part of something bigger: a state-wide commitment to clean, renewable energy that benefits everyone.
So What Can You Do?
By opting into any of these incentives, both Missouri and Illinois residents are finding that solar isn’t just about powering a home—it’s about claiming energy freedom and securing a future with predictable energy costs. So if rising utility rates are pushing you to make a change, the choice should be clear: solar is more accessible, affordable, and making more of an impact than ever before. Remember — the cost of doing nothing is rising.
If you’re interested in learning more about renewable energy—we are ARC or Advanced Renewable Concepts. Our mission is to drive renewable energy independence across America. We believe solar saves money, benefits the planet and communities, and provides essential resources to those who need them. As a minority-owned business, we’re here to answer any questions about solar. Whether you’re in Missouri, Illinois, or beyond, we’d love to connect. Email us or Call us at 888.424.3546 today.
