How Does Utility Charge Electricity?
Energy companies charge you based on how many kilowatt-hours (kWh) you use, and you're charged for each unit.
For example:
Running a 1,000-watt appliance for 1 hour uses 1 kWh
Note: The price of electricity fluctuates based on demand, fuel costs, and other factors. Over time, electricity prices tend to rise, which means higher bills for you. Reduce bills by producing your own!
Solar panels absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity using special materials like silicon. This electricity is called DC (direct current) power.
DC power flows in a steady, one-way stream from the panels toward your home. This direct flow of energy needs to be converted into usable power which happens through an inverter.
In order to utilize this energy we must convert it into Alternating Current or AC Power
The next step is to convert it into Alternating Current (AC) with the help of an inverter.
There are different types of inverters, like string inverters, microinverters, and power optimizers, but they all perform the same basic function.
With solar, you don't just produce electricity for your home - you can also save through a process called net metering.
When you produce more electricity than your home needs, that extra energy is sent back to the grid.
In return, your utility company gives you credits for each kWh of energy you send back.
During times when your solar panels aren't producing as much energy (like at night or when it's cloudy). You'll pull electricity from the grid and the credits can be used to reduce costs
Note: Not all states have net metering policies. The availability of net metering depends on your state and utility provider. Be sure to check your local regulations to see if you can take advantage of this benefit.
Some solar quotes might look good on paper but cut corners with low-grade components or skip important features. At ARC, we build systems that last, using high-efficiency panels, trusted inverters, and industry-leading hardware. Use the tool below to calculate your price per watt and see how your quote stacks up.
Solar installation on your property is a proactive way to embrace clean, renewable energy while protecting yourself from rising utility costs. By generating electricity from sunlight, you reduce your reliance on the grid and lower your monthly bills – often qualifying for incentives, tax credits, and net metering benefits. Whether you’re a homeowner or business owner, a customized solar installation can offer dependable long-term savings. Solar can also boost property value, and help create a more sustainable tomorrow.
As of 2025 - The federal solar tax credit allows homeowners to deduct up to 30% of their solar project costs.
Illinois offers the Illinois Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program through Illinois Shines, which allows homeowners to sell renewable energy their system produces as credits. There are also state programs like Illinois Solar for All.
Missouri has state incentives with a property tax exemption and access to the ITC. Several power companies in Missouri also offer rebates through net metering which lets you sell power back to the utility company.
Use Project Sol for a quick solar estimate based on your home. Want something more accurate? Submit a contact form and we’ll run a full analysis using our software.
A SIMPLE FORM SUBMISSION CAN SAVE YOU $$$
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One of our in-house Energy Advisors will follow up by phone or email after you submit your information. They’ll answer questions, review your ARC solar estimate, and walk you through next steps based on your home’s energy profile, efficiency, and solar potential.
THIS PROCESS IS COMPLETED IN JUST A FEW DAYS
We'll arrange for one of our team members to visit your property to get home measurements and information vital to properly engineering and designing your system.Â
THIS PROCESS IS COMPLETED IN JUST A FEW DAYS
Approve your custom solar design so we can begin securing permits from your city or county building departments.
Most systems are installed in just one to two days. After that, local city and utility inspectors will visit your home to complete final approvals before your system can be turned on.
Once approvals are granted, your system will be switched on and you will start generating clean energy for your home
Our goal is to complete the entire process - from initial consultation to system activation - within 90 days.
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ARC is the operating name of Advanced Renewable Concepts, LLC, a locally and minority-owned solar installation and design company serving Missouri and Illinois.
