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Own Your Power—Stop Renting Electricity!
Why rent your energy when you can own it? Go solar, take control, and turn your electricity bill into an asset.
Solar Energy Has Never Been Easier
Going solar has never been easier. SunSent Solar provides expert installation and financial guidance to homeowners in St. Louis, Central, and Southern Illinois. From your first consultation to flipping the switch, we handle it all—so you can start saving without the hassle.
SunSent solar's lifetime energy savings
Powering a Greener Future
See how many megawatt-hours we've saved since 2022—clean energy that makes a real impact. To put these numbers into perspective, 1 MWh can power an average home for about a month.
5,368.11
mWh saved
A SUBSTAINABLE HOME STARTS HERE
We understand your home is an extension of you and your family, that's why we are not only dedicated to installing roofs and solar panels, but also providing you an enjoyable personal experience that transcends beyond construction.
Best experience ever.
“Best experience ever. SunSent Solar, especially Rory Sands, were amazing. This is a professional, organized, and experienced team. Their work was top notch and looked like it was designed with the house. Communicated with us every step of the way and told you if they needed items. If you are thinking of installing solar this is your team!!!!!”
David G.
Nothing but praise.
"I have nothing but praise for SunSent. From the first time I met Rory I felt he was honest, straight forward and didn’t push anything. He has a good product to sell and all he had to do was present the facts to me and I could decide myself. No pressure... I have friends and family that have all bought through Rory and all are happy!
I’m telling you and anybody else who wants to know about Solar Power to contact Rory at SunSent"
Mark A.
Solar Power Installation in Missouri & Illinois!
The 4 step solar panel installation process from
Sunsent Solar is designed to get customers up and running in no time.
- Free site assessment
- Creating a custom solar design tailored to fit your needs
- Careful, clean, and high quality installations
- Ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure your system is running properly and efficiently.
Home Energy Saving and Renewables.
Switching To Sunshine Starts Here!
The roads are buzzing with electric vehicles, and for good reason! EVs offer incredible performance, a smoother ride, and freedom from fluctuating gas prices. But as more Midwest drivers make the switch, a critical question emerges: how do you power your EV most efficiently, affordably, and sustainably? At SunSent Solar , we're not just at the forefront of solar energy; we're also your go-to experts for integrating cutting-edge EV charging solutions into your home. We believe the future of transportation is electric, and the smartest way to power it is with the sun. Let's dive deep into the world of home EV chargers, how they work, and why pairing them with solar and battery backup is the ultimate power move for your Midwest home. The Rise of the Home EV Charger: Convenience Meets Efficiency Gone are the days of relying solely on public charging stations. A home EV charger offers unparalleled convenience: simply plug in overnight, and wake up to a fully charged vehicle, ready for your commute or next adventure. How Home EV Chargers Work: An Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE), commonly known as an EV charger, safely delivers electricity from your home's electrical system to your vehicle's battery. It's essentially a smart connection that ensures your car gets the right power safely. Types of Home EV Chargers (Levels Explained): Level 1 Charging (120-Volt AC): What it is: Uses a standard household 120V outlet (like the one for your phone or toaster). Most EVs come with a Level 1 charging cord. Charge Speed: Very slow. Typically adds 2 to 5 miles of range per hour of charging. A full charge can take 40-50+ hours for a full EV. Best For: Plug-in hybrids, very low daily mileage, or as a backup option. Installation: Minimal to none, as it uses existing outlets. Level 2 Charging (240-Volt AC): What it is: Requires a dedicated 240V circuit, similar to what a clothes dryer or electric oven uses. These are dedicated EV charging units. Charge Speed: Much faster! Adds 20 to 30 miles of range per hour of charging. Most full EVs can charge from empty to 80% in 4-10 hours overnight. Best For: Most EV owners, offering fast, convenient home charging. Installation: Requires professional installation by a licensed electrician, often including a dedicated circuit and possibly an electrical panel upgrade. Average installation costs for a Level 2 charger in the Midwest typically range from $1,000 to $2,000 , including equipment and labor, though panel upgrades can add $500-$2,500 more. DC Fast Charging (Level 3): What it is: These are high-power, direct current (DC) chargers. Charge Speed: Extremely fast! Can add hundreds of miles in 20-60 minutes . Best For: Public charging stations, rarely installed in homes due to immense power requirements and high cost (often $10,000+ for equipment and major electrical upgrades). For the vast majority of homeowners, a Level 2 EV charger is the ideal solution, providing a perfect balance of speed and affordability for daily use. The Ultimate Synergy: Powering Your EV with Solar You've invested in an electric vehicle for its efficiency and environmental benefits. Why stop there? Powering your EV with solar energy from your rooftop takes its eco-credentials and cost savings to the next level. Benefits of Pairing Your EV Charger with Home Solar: Massive Cost Savings: Charging your EV can significantly increase your household's electricity consumption. For example, driving an EV 15,000 miles a year can add 2,500-4,500 kWh to your annual electricity usage. By charging your EV with solar, you're essentially fueling your car for "free" after your system pays for itself. This means saving $1,000 or more a year compared to fueling a gas-powered vehicle, and even more compared to drawing expensive, grid-sourced electricity. As utility rates in Missouri and Illinois soar (projected 70% increases in the next year!), generating your own power for your car becomes an indispensable financial shield. True Green Driving: An EV is only as clean as its power source. Charging at public stations often means pulling electricity from the grid, which in the Midwest, still relies heavily on fossil fuels. With solar, you know your EV is powered by 100% clean, emissions-free sunshine. A typical 5 kW solar system can offset 4.80 tons of CO2 per year in Missouri, and when coupled with EV charging, this environmental impact is multiplied! Enhanced Energy Independence: You become less reliant on utility companies for both your home's electricity and your vehicle's fuel. Maximize your solar investment: Any excess power your panels generate beyond your home's immediate needs can go directly into your EV battery, ensuring you use every bit of that clean energy. Convenience and Predictability: Imagine never stopping at a gas station again. With a home EV charger and solar, your "fuel" is always ready on your roof. No more worrying about peak charging times or fluctuating public charging station prices. Your "fuel cost" is locked in!
The summer of 2025 is here, and it's brought a brutal gift: a massive "heat dome" suffocating the central United States. As temperatures soar into triple digits and humidity makes it feel even worse, one thing is guaranteed: your cooling bills are about to explode. AccuWeather warns of "levels of heat and humidity not seen in June in many years," with urban areas potentially failing to drop below 80∘F (26.7∘C) at night. At SunSent Solar , we understand that feeling of dread when the thermostat creeps higher and higher. But we're here to tell you: you don't have to play that infuriating and unwinnable game of "set your thermostat to 79∘F." There's a powerful, readily available technology that offers real relief and long-term control: a home solar and battery system . The Heat Dome's Double Whammy: Extreme Temps & Grid Strain This isn't just about discomfort; it's about a grid pushed to its limits. When millions of homes crank their AC simultaneously, the electricity grid faces immense pressure. This can lead to: Soaring Demand Charges: Utilities often implement higher rates during peak demand hours, making those sweltering afternoons even more expensive. Rolling Blackouts and Brownouts: When demand exceeds supply, utility companies may be forced to implement planned outages to prevent total grid collapse. Just this week, as of Tuesday, June 24, 2025, approximately 80,000 people across four states in the Midwest and Northeast were already without power amidst the heatwave, with some outages expected to last for days. Climate Central data shows that weather-related power outages during "heat season" (May-September) have increased by about 60% in the U.S. from 2014-2023 compared to 2000-2009. Your Solar + Battery System: The Ultimate Heatwave Survival Kit This is where solar with battery storage becomes your secret weapon, offering a multi-faceted defense against the summer's worst: 1. Drastically Reduce (or Eliminate!) Your Energy Bills. This is the most obvious, yet most impactful benefit. By generating your own clean electricity, you directly offset what you pull from the grid. As we've discussed, utility rates in Missouri and Illinois are projected to jump by an astonishing 70% in the next year! Solar panels allow you to lock in your energy costs, making your electricity bill predictable, manageable, and often, much lower. Midwest Savings in Action: For a typical 5 kW system in St. Louis, MO, homeowners can see an average of $68.33 in monthly savings , potentially saving over $15,450 over 20 years . In Illinois, a 5 kW system could lead to average monthly savings of $90.99 and over $11,440 saved over 20 years ! Imagine those savings when your neighbors' bills are 70% higher. 2. Solar Panels Act as a Physical Shield for Your Roof (and Home!). This is a benefit many homeowners overlook! A 2011 study by the Jacobs School of Engineering at the University of California San Diego found that solar panel arrays can reduce the amount of heat reaching your roof by about 38% . This means: Significantly Cooler Attics: Less heat penetrating your attic space means your insulation works more effectively. Reduced Heat Transfer to Living Spaces: A cooler attic translates directly to less heat seeping into your air-conditioned rooms, reducing the workload on your AC system. This can lead to lower cooling costs and a more comfortable home, even on the hottest days. Other studies show roof temperatures can be lowered by as much as 35∘F (20∘C) during peak sunlight hours. 3. Keeps Your Home Cool When the Grid Fails (The Power of Battery Backup!). A grid-tied solar system alone will shut off during a power outage for safety reasons. But when you pair your solar panels with a home battery backup , you gain true energy independence: Uninterrupted Power: Your solar panels will continue to charge your battery, and your battery will power your essential appliances (like your refrigerator, lights, and most importantly, your AC for short periods) even when the neighborhood goes dark. Peace of Mind: During a scorching heatwave, losing power can be dangerous, especially for vulnerable populations. A battery backup system ensures you can keep your home and food cool, and medical devices powered, while services are restored. 4. Fight Back Against Climate Change by Choosing a Renewable Resource. Beyond the immediate comfort and savings, choosing solar is a powerful statement. Your decision to power your home with the sun directly reduces your carbon footprint, contributing to a cleaner, more stable climate. Significant CO2 Reduction: A 5 kW solar system in St. Louis can reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 4.80 tons per year – equivalent to planting hundreds of trees annually! Illinois systems see similar benefits, with a 5 kW system reducing CO2 by 3.03 tons per year . This is energy that is for sure coming from a renewable source, helping to mitigate the very climate issues causing these extreme heat events. The Right Time is Absolutely RIGHT NOW: Don't Miss the 30% Tax Credit! The financial incentives for going solar have never been stronger, but this window of opportunity is rapidly closing. The 30% Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is an incredible benefit, allowing you to claim 30% of the entire cost of your solar and battery system as a credit on your federal taxes. This drastically reduces your upfront investment and accelerates your payback period. However, recent legislative proposals in Congress are targeting this credit. While the Inflation Reduction Act initially extended the 30% credit through 2032, both the House and Senate have introduced bills that would significantly reduce or completely eliminate the residential solar tax credit as early as December 31, 2025! Some proposals even suggest a phasedown that would begin in 2026. This means you have to act this year to ensure you lock in that full 30% credit. Combining this with competitive battery prices makes the timing truly unbeatable. Don't suffer through another sweltering Midwest summer dependent on a stressed, expensive grid. Take control of your comfort, your bills, and your energy future. SunSent Solar is your local, trusted partner. We're here to help you design and install a custom solar and battery solution that keeps your home cool, your bills low, and your peace of mind high. The heat is on, and the clock is ticking on the 30% tax credit. Contact SunSent Solar today at 636.757.3083 or visit SunSent.com for a free consultation. Let's make this your coolest, most energy-independent summer yet!
It's a debate as old as rooftop solar itself: will those panels actually boost your home's resale value, or are they just a hefty expense? For years, misconceptions have swirled, leaving homeowners unsure about one of the most significant investments they can make. But here at SunSent Solar , we believe in transparent answers. We're not just selling clean energy; we're providing clarity. That's why we're sharing insights from a leading mortgage expert, based on the very guidelines from Fannie Mae , one of America's biggest financial institutions. The verdict is in, and it's overwhelmingly good news for solar homeowners. The Breakdown: When Solar Adds Value (and When it Doesn't) According to mortgage expert Brandon Brotsky , whose insights are drawn directly from Fannie Mae's appraisal guidelines, the key factor in determining if solar panels add value to your home is ownership . 1. Owned Outright (Cash or Paid-Off Loan): The BIGGEST Benefit! "If the panels are owned outright, meaning you paid cash or have paid off any third party debt associated with the panels, the appraiser can add the value of the solar panels to your home," Brotsky clarifies. This is the golden standard. When you fully own your solar system, it becomes a fixture of the home , just like a new roof or a renovated kitchen. Appraisers can then directly factor its value into your property's overall worth. 2. Financed as a Fixture to the Home (e.g., Cash-Out Refinance): Still a Boost! "If your panels are financed as a fixture to the home, the value would also be increased," Brotsky adds. An example is using a cash-out refinance to include the solar panels in your primary mortgage. In these cases, because the panels are part of the real estate collateral, they are still considered a permanent addition that contributes to the appraised value. 3. Third-Party Loans (Specifically for Solar System): Value Added Upon Payoff "A third-party loan that was originated specifically to finance the solar system would disqualify the property from additional appreciation," Brotsky explains. However, he quickly points out, "As I mentioned earlier, once the loan is paid off, the value of your property will increase." This means if you take out a separate loan just for the solar system, it might not immediately add to the appraised value until that loan is cleared. But once it's paid off, the system's value will be recognized. 4. Leased Solar Panels: Lower Bills, But No Direct Property Value Increase "The last option, leasing the solar panels, will almost definitely lower your monthly power bill," says Brotsky. "However, it will never increase the value of the property." This is a crucial distinction. While leased panels offer immediate utility bill savings, you don't own the asset. This can sometimes complicate sales as buyers might be hesitant to assume a long-term lease agreement. However, Brotsky notes, "A home with solar is going to lower the overall monthly expenses for the incoming buyer, which will ultimately make the property more attractive to buyers." So, while it doesn't directly increase the dollar value on the appraisal, it undeniably enhances the marketability and attractiveness of your home. The Numbers Don't Lie: Solar Homes Sell for More (and Faster!) Beyond Fannie Mae's guidelines, independent research consistently supports the fact that owned solar panels are a smart financial move: Zillow's Latest Findings: A 2025 study by SolarReviews using Zillow data found that homes with solar panels now sell for an average of 6.9% more than comparable homes without solar. This translates to an additional almost $29,000 for a median-valued home! (This is a significant jump from Zillow's 2019 finding of 4.1%). National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL): Research by NREL indicates that homes with solar can see an increase in value by approximately $20 for every $1 reduction in annual utility bills. So, a system that saves you $600 per year could potentially add $12,000 to your home's value. Faster Sales: Many studies suggest that homes with solar also tend to sell faster, attracting energy-conscious buyers who recognize the long-term savings and environmental benefits. Some reports suggest homes with solar can sell up to 20% faster than those without. These numbers demonstrate that solar is not just an operating expense offset; it's a tangible asset that contributes to your property's overall worth. Why the Midwest is Ripe for Solar Value Here in the Midwest, the value proposition for solar is even stronger: Rising Energy Costs: With utility rates in Missouri and Illinois projected to jump by 70% in the next year , the immediate and long-term savings offered by solar are immense. This translates directly into higher perceived value for potential buyers seeking relief from escalating bills. Growing Demand for Efficiency: Buyers are increasingly prioritizing energy-efficient homes. A home with owned solar panels stands out as a forward-thinking, cost-saving investment in our region's dynamic housing market. Strong Incentives: The 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit significantly reduces the upfront cost of going solar, making the return on investment even more attractive and directly boosting the net value added to your home. Make Solar Your Smartest Home Investment with SunSent Solar The debate is over. When properly owned, solar panels unequivocally increase your home's value, make it more attractive to buyers, and provide significant long-term savings on your electric bills. At SunSent Solar , we specialize in guiding homeowners across the Midwest through the entire process, ensuring you choose the best ownership option for your financial goals. We offer transparent pricing, expert installation, and durable, high-quality panels that will be a true asset to your property for decades to come. Ready to boost your home's value and slash those skyrocketing utility bills? Contact SunSent Solar today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let's make your home a more valuable, energy-independent asset for years to come!
