| The turn of the decade marks a new chapter for the solar energy industry in Missouri. Proposition C, a Renewable Energy Standard that was passed by statewide ballot initiative with 66% of the vote in November 2008, includes a new solar rebate program effective January 1, 2010. The combination of this new rebate, the current 30% federal tax credit, and the all-time low price of solar panels has cut the cost of a solar installation in half since 2007.
With the improved economic benefits, many Missourians are choosing to install solar panels on their homes or businesses. Prop C includes a solar rebate program to be offered to customers of all Missouri's investor-owned utilities including Kansas City Power and Light (KCPL), AmerenUE, and Empire Electric. While Ameren and KCPL have programs beginning on January 1, Empire Electric has not yet indicated they are planning to comply with the law.
States like California lead the country with over 50,000 homes powered by solar electricity. In Missouri, only a few hundred homes and businesses solar electric systems installed. Installations resulting from the Prop C rebate program will create more green jobs at a time when Missouri needs them most.
"We've been enjoying a successful solar business for several years, but are excited for the increase in sales the Prop C rebate program will bring. Missourians understand the incredible benefits of solar power, and will take advantage of the drop in prices," says Henry Rentz a Missouri solar installer and president of the Missouri Solar Energy Industries Association (MOSEIA).
The Missouri solar industry has grown slowly in the past due to a lack of state policy to fuel the transition to clean sources of power. About 85% of Missouri's energy comes from coal compared to a national average of 50%. A heavy reliance on cheap coal has its drawbacks. All of the coal burned in Missouri power plants is imported from out of state and burning coal emits carbon and heavy toxins, causing climate change and impacting public health.
Renew Missouri, a project of the Missouri Coalition for the Environment, has worked since 2007 to advance renewable energy and energy efficiency in Missouri. It also has helped unify solar installers through involvement with MOSEIA. Details on the upcoming NABCEP-approved solar training course with national solar expert Bill Brooks in Columbia on January 15, 2010 may be found at here.
Editor's note: The energy efficiency coordinator, according to Amy Bass, spokesperson for Empire Electric, reports that the company has four programs in place that deal with energy efficiency. They are the Energy Star New Homes Rebate Program, the High Efficiency Air Conditioning Rebate Program, the Low Income New Homes Program and the Low Income Weatherization Program. In addition, the company, when requested, will provide information on tax credits for participation in installing solar panels. Go Back |
