Ameren Missouri’s Proposed Rate Hike: What It Means for You and How Solar Can Help

The solar industry is in a shake-up—and not everyone is going to make it through. While some of the biggest names in residential solar are collapsing under the weight of debt, overhead, and shady practices, local solar companies are doing what they’ve always done: showing up, doing honest work, and delivering real value to homeowners. So what’s happening—and why does it matter now more than ever? Big Solar's Business Model is a House of Cards Let’s cut to the chase. Companies like Sunnova, SolarCity, and ADT Solar bet big on aggressive expansion, high-risk debt, and sales-first, service-second strategies. According to a new article from EnergySage , most big solar businesses are “walking on very thin ice,” and that ice is finally cracking. From SolarCity’s 2016 fall to the recent closures of Pink Energy, Vision Solar, Titan, and SunPower, the message is clear: bigger isn't better—it's riskier. These companies often rely on complex financing structures that delay payments to installers and leave customers holding the bag. Many outsource sales to commission-only contractors with no real understanding of solar, leading to overpromises, bad installs, and frustrated homeowners. Small Solar, Stronger Results By contrast, small and regional solar companies like SunSent Solar are thriving. Why? Because we actually know your name. We're here after the install. And we’re built on doing the job right—not scaling across 30 states or satisfying shareholders. Industry expert Joe Marhamtati explains it best: “These local companies really care about their customers more than they do about shareholder returns.” At SunSent , we’re not just another sales office. We're your neighbor, your installer, your ongoing support system.

As new tariffs threaten to raise solar costs, Earth Day reminds us why clean energy is still our best shot at a brighter future.

House hunting? You’re probably juggling a hundred decisions—neighborhoods, schools, square footage, countertops. But if you find a home with solar panels already installed, you might’ve just stumbled into a pretty great deal... or a massive headache. Let’s break it down so you don’t get burned. So, the house has solar. Is that a good thing? Yes, it can be. Solar panels slash electric bills , boost property value, and let you stick it to rising utility costs. But the devil’s in the details: who owns the panels, how they were paid for, and what condition they’re in all matter a lot. 1. Find out how the panels were paid for Before you fall in love with that energy-efficient dream home, ask this: Were the panels paid for in full ? Are they leased ? Is there an outstanding loan ? Were they financed through PACE ? Each option comes with its own checklist. Here’s what you’re getting into: 2. Fully Owned Solar Panels = Best Case Scenario If the seller paid upfront for the solar system, you’re golden. No monthly payments, no contracts, just savings. You'll want: ✅ A copy of the purchase agreement ✅ Transfer paperwork from the installer ✅ Warranty info ✅ A Net Metering (NEM) agreement with the utility Just know that federal tax credits already claimed by the original owner don’t transfer to you—but other local incentives might. Ask! 3. Leased Panels = Proceed with Caution Leased solar isn’t necessarily bad, but it is more complicated. You’re taking over someone else’s contract, so: Get a copy of the lease Ask about monthly payments Look for escalators (automatic yearly increases) Check for early termination fees See if there’s a buyout option Oh—and make sure that lease won’t interfere with your mortgage approval. Lenders do care. If the system is under a PPA (Power Purchase Agreement), you're paying per kWh used instead of a flat monthly rate. Do the math and make sure it still saves you money. 4. Solar Loan? You Might Not Have to Worry In most cases, the seller will pay off the loan before closing, and the solar system gets wrapped into the home’s value. But if they want you to assume the loan, ask: Is it secured or unsecured? What’s the interest rate? What’s the remaining balance and loan term? Also check if the system qualifies for net metering or performance-based incentives that offset your payment. In some states (like Missouri), PACE financing gets paid through property taxes. That stays with the house. If you’re buying a PACE home, make sure the numbers still work for your budget. 5. Check the Roof (Seriously) Solar panels are great, but if the roof underneath is falling apart? Not so much. Get the roof inspected. 🛠️ A general home inspection isn’t always enough 🛠️ Consider a dedicated roof inspection ($150–$500) 🛠️ If repairs are needed, panel removal can cost $1,500–$6,000 Use this info to negotiate. Don’t get stuck footing the bill for someone else’s deferred maintenance. 6. Check the Panels, Too Solar panels usually last 25–30 years, but they do degrade slowly over time. Ask for: Performance reports or access to the system’s monitoring app Warranty information (most are transferable) A rundown of any past maintenance or repairs Make sure they’re still doing what they were installed to do—saving money. Bottom Line A house with solar panels can be a huge win—if you do your homework. Always ask the seller and your agent for documentation and don’t be afraid to loop in your own inspector, electrician, or solar installer to give the system a second look. Thinking about buying a solar home in Missouri? The SunSent Solar team is always happy to take a look at the system, explain the setup, and help you make a smart decision. We’ve got your back. Want to turn your home into a solar-powered powerhouse? Contact SunSent Solar today.

As of April 10, 2025, the U.S. has implemented sweeping new tariffs on imported solar equipment. Panels from Southeast Asia now face tariffs ranging from 36% to 49%, while Chinese-made products are hit with a staggering 125% tariff. These tariffs are set to significantly increase the cost of solar installations nationwide.​  Impact by Country of Origin Solar panels from Southeast Asia, which previously offered cost-effective options, are now subject to substantial tariffs. Domestic suppliers like GSTAR and SolarSpace have already raised their prices by 30–35% to account for these new tariffs. This means that homeowners considering solar installations will soon face higher costs if they opt for panels affected by these tariffs.

If you’ve been thinking about going solar, it’s time to stop thinking and start acting. New federal tariff changes are set to drive up the cost of solar panels, batteries, and installation materials—and the window to lock in pre-tariff pricing is quickly closing. Let’s break down what’s happening, how it impacts homeowners in the Midwest, and why April 2025 is the smartest time to make the switch to solar. What’s Happening with Tariffs? On April 9, 2025, the White House officially implemented a sweeping tariff policy adjustment. Countries previously subject to varying rates will now face a universal 10% tariff, while China’s rate has skyrocketed to 125% under what the administration is calling “reciprocal tariffs.” This directly affects the solar industry because, while many solar panels are assembled outside of China, a large portion of the materials used to make them—including aluminum frames, inverters, and key electrical components—are still sourced from China . These tariffs are already creating ripple effects through the supply chain. How Much Are Solar Prices Going Up? While U.S. solar manufacturing has grown, it’s still dependent on imported materials. As a result, even American-made panels will see price increases due to tariff-related costs on sub-components. Here’s what experts from Solar.com and other industry analysts are projecting: Solar Panels: Expected to rise 3–4 cents per watt Balance of System Costs: Will increase 2–3 cents per watt Battery Storage Systems (BESS): Face potential increases of 20–30% , and possibly more To put that in perspective: for a typical 7 kW residential solar system, an increase of just 7 cents/watt could add nearly $500 to the cost of a system. For those planning to add a battery backup, the additional cost could reach into the thousands .

Hailstorms can be sudden and fierce, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. For homeowners, the aftermath often involves assessing damage and initiating repairs. However, a critical misstep during this process can lead to unforeseen expenses, sometimes reaching as high as $15,000. Understanding this potential pitfall is essential to protect both your home and your finances.​ The Immediate Aftermath: Assessing the Damage After a hailstorm, it's natural to inspect your property for visible signs of damage. While shattered windows or dented vehicles are obvious indicators, roof damage can be more insidious. Hail as small as 1 inch in diameter can compromise the integrity of roofing materials, leading to leaks and structural issues over time. The Cost of Neglecting Roof Inspections One of the most significant mistakes homeowners make is neglecting a professional roof inspection after a hailstorm. Superficial assessments may overlook subtle damages that can escalate into major problems. The cost of repairing hail damage varies widely, with averages around $4,250, but can range from as low as $375 to as high as $7,500, depending on the extent of the damage and materials used. Delaying or ignoring necessary repairs can lead to more severe structural issues, potentially doubling these costs.​ Insurance Claims: A Double-Edged Sword Filing an insurance claim seems like the logical step after discovering hail damage. However, this process is fraught with complexities. While insurance may cover a portion of the repair costs, homeowners often face high deductibles and depreciation factors. For instance, an insurance payout of $7,000 might be approved for hail damage, but with high deductibles and depreciation, this amount could cover less than 50% of the total replacement cost , leaving homeowners to cover the remaining balance out-of-pocket.

Missouri residents are facing a notable uptick in electricity rates, with several utility companies implementing significant increases that surpass both national inflation rates and local wage growth. This trend underscores the importance of exploring alternative energy solutions , such as solar power, to mitigate rising energy costs and promote sustainability.​ Rising Electricity Rates Across Missouri Recent data reveals that from 2020 to 2023, Ameren Missouri's residential customers experienced average summer bill increases of 19.56% and winter bill increases of 21.05%. These hikes have outpaced national inflation (18.62%) and Missouri's average weekly wage growth (16%) during the same period. Infrastructure investments have been identified as the principal drivers of these increases. In December 2024, Ameren Missouri filed a request with the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) for a 15.77% rate increase, aiming to generate approximately $446 million. This resulted in an average monthly increase of $17.45 for customers. Similarly, Evergy Missouri West sought a 13.99% rate increase, effective January 1, 2025, which added about $27 per month to the average customer's bill. This request was made to recoup costs associated with infrastructure spending.

​Investing in solar panels is a significant step toward reducing energy bills and promoting sustainability. However, pairing your solar system with battery storage can amplify these benefits, leading to greater savings, enhanced environmental impact, and increased energy independence. This article explores how the number of batteries integrated into your solar system—ranging from one to three—can influence these advantages.​ Understanding Solar Battery Storage Solar batteries store excess energy produced by your solar panels during peak sunlight hours. This stored energy can be used during periods of low sunlight, power outages , or peak demand times when electricity rates are higher. By utilizing stored energy, homeowners can reduce reliance on the grid, leading to potential cost savings and increased energy security. Financial Implications: 1 vs. 2 vs. 3 Batteries The financial benefits of solar battery storage depend on the system's capacity and the household's energy consumption patterns. Here’s a breakdown of potential savings based on the number of batteries:​ Single Battery System Capacity: Typically, a single battery system offers around 5 to 13.5 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of storage.​ Cost: The installation cost for one battery ranges from $6,000 to $18,000, depending on the brand and capacity. Savings: Homeowners can save approximately $1,100 annually on electricity bills by utilizing stored solar energy during peak periods. Two-Battery System Capacity: Doubling the storage to approximately 10 to 27 kWh.​ Cost: The additional battery increases the total cost to between $12,000 and $36,000.​ Savings: With increased storage, homeowners can store more excess energy, potentially leading to greater savings, especially if their energy consumption is high or if they experience frequent peak pricing periods.​ Three-Battery System Capacity: Approximately 15 to 40.5 kWh of storage.​ Cost: Total installation costs can range from $18,000 to $54,000.​ Savings: This setup is ideal for households with high energy usage or those aiming for maximum energy independence. The substantial storage capacity allows for significant reductions in grid reliance, leading to more substantial long-term savings.​ It's important to note that while adding more batteries increases storage capacity and potential savings, the upfront costs also rise. Homeowners should assess their energy needs and consult with professionals to determine the optimal number of batteries for their situation.​ Environmental Benefits Integrating battery storage with solar panels not only offers financial advantages but also contributes positively to the environment:​ Reduced Carbon Footprint: By storing and utilizing solar energy, households decrease their reliance on fossil fuels, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions. ​ Efficient Energy Use: Stored energy can be used during peak demand times, reducing strain on the grid and promoting the use of clean energy.​ Energy Independence Achieving energy independence is a significant advantage of combining solar panels with battery storage:​ Grid Resilience: Stored energy provides a backup during power outages, ensuring uninterrupted power supply. ​ Control Over Energy Usage: Homeowners can manage their energy consumption more effectively, using stored energy during peak pricing periods to avoid higher costs.​ Blue Raven Solar Conclusion Integrating battery storage with your solar system enhances the benefits of solar energy, offering increased savings , environmental advantages, and greater energy independence. While the initial investment varies with the number of batteries, the long-term gains make it a worthwhile consideration for homeowners aiming to optimize their energy solutions. Have any questions? Give us a call at 636-757-3083 or visit sunsent.com.

Many homeowners invest in solar panels to save money on electricity, but did you know they can also help extend the lifespan of your roof? When installed correctly, solar panels serve as a protective barrier, shielding your roof from harsh weather conditions , UV rays, and temperature fluctuations. Let’s explore how solar panels can contribute to the longevity of your roof and what steps you should take to prepare for installation. Shielding from the Elements Your roof takes the brunt of nature’s elements—rain, hail, snow, and intense sunlight. Over time, these forces wear down roofing materials, leading to cracks, leaks, and eventual replacement . Solar panels act as a protective shield, covering portions of your roof and reducing its direct exposure to harsh weather. This extra layer of protection helps slow down wear and tear, preserving the integrity of the roofing materials underneath. Reduced UV Damage One of the leading causes of roof deterioration is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. UV rays dry out roofing materials, causing shingles to become brittle, crack, and lose their protective granules. Solar panels absorb sunlight that would otherwise hit your shingles directly, significantly reducing UV damage. As a result, the lifespan of your roof increases, potentially delaying costly repairs or replacements . Protection from Weather Extremes Severe weather events can wreak havoc on roofs. High winds can lift shingles, hail can create dents, and ice buildup can lead to water damage. Since solar panels are designed to withstand extreme conditions, they provide an added layer of defense against these threats. When hail or debris falls, solar panels take the initial impact, reducing the likelihood of roof damage underneath. Cooling Effect on Your Roof Heat exposure accelerates roof degradation. On hot summer days, roofing materials expand under extreme temperatures and contract at night, leading to cracks over time. Solar panels create a gap between the roof and the panels themselves, allowing air to circulate. This airflow helps cool down the roof by an average of 5 degrees, reducing temperature-related wear and enhancing energy efficiency inside the home. By keeping your roof cooler, solar panels also help maintain its structural integrity longer. Proper Installation Prevents Damage Some homeowners worry that installing solar panels may harm their roof. However, when performed by a qualified professional , solar panel installation does not damage the roofing structure. Modern mounting systems use durable lag bolts that anchor securely into the roof’s structure. These bolts are then sealed with moisture-resistant flashing to prevent leaks. By using proper sealing techniques, solar panels remain securely in place while maintaining the roof’s integrity. Ensuring Your Roof is Ready for Solar Before installing solar panels, it’s crucial to ensure that your roof is in good condition. If your roof is near the end of its lifespan or has existing damage, it may be best to repair or replace it before installing solar panels. A professional roof inspection can help determine if your roof is structurally sound for solar panel installation. Long-Term Savings & Roof Protection With solar panels, you’re not just generating clean energy —you’re also investing in the longevity of your home. By shielding your roof from environmental stressors, reducing UV exposure, and improving insulation, solar panels offer a dual benefit of energy savings and extended roof life. If you're considering solar, now is the time to act. Make sure your roof is ready, work with certified installers, and enjoy the long-term benefits of both solar energy and a protected, longer-lasting roof. Give us a call at 636-757-3083 or check out another one of our blogs about preparing for severe storms!