Renewable Energy
Investing in renewable energy allows members of the Osage Valley Electric Cooperative to light their homes with clean, sustainable sources.
There are multiple ways to invest in renewable resources in West Central Missouri. Here are three options to consider so you can choose the best sources for your home.
Osage Valley can help in the initial planning stages. We can provide you with your historical monthly energy usage and determine if taking advantage of our energy audit and rebate program before you install solar may benefit you. Businesses, schools and agricultural applications may qualify for USDA grants and loans for certain renewable energy solutions. Our engineering department can assist you in determining necessary safety equipment required for connecting your system to the grid and provide you with the cooperative’s policies and net metering agreement. Please call us at 660-679-3131 Ext 5547 if you are considering installing a solar energy system.
Net metering applications are offered on a first come, first served basis until the aggregate of all net meter generation capacity exceeds 5% of the previous year’s utility peak. Osage Valley is currently accepting net metering applications.
Renewable Energy
Solar Energy
Solar energy is one of the most in-demand renewable energy resources used by members of OVEC. We frequently receive questions from homeowners who are eager to install solar panels on their properties.
Before you invest in solar, start with an energy audit. This is a more affordable investment that can have an immediate impact on your electric bills. Once your home is running as efficiently as possible, you can then look into solar options.
As demand for solar increases, so does the number of fraudulent companies looking to take advantage of homeowners. Follow these steps to ensure the solar installer you choose is trustworthy and reliable:
- Request at least three written estimates. This can help you understand the scope and cost of the project.
- Ask to see the contractors’ licenses and certifications. Look for a contractor certified by the National American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Also, confirm that they carry liability insurance.
- Compare their size estimates. See how many panels the installer recommends and how much power they expect your home to generate.
- Be wary of financing offers. While many installation systems offer financing, some offers might sound too good to be true. Make sure you do the math before agreeing to a payment plan.
Installing solar panels won't eliminate your electric bill. Additionally, you cannot make money from selling your excess solar generation. Any overage will be applied as a credit to your account.
The PVWatts Calculator can help you with your solar generation calculations. You can also call our team at 1-660-679-3131, ext 5547 if you are considering installing a solar energy system. We will do our best to guide you through the process.
Geothermal Energy
Another promising way to invest in renewable energy for residents of West Central Missouri is through geothermal heat pumps. These systems use the natural temperatures of the ground to either heat or cool your home.
During the winter months, the temperature underground is warmer than the air outside. In the summer, the underground temperature is cooler. Geothermal systems push water from your water heater or well below ground to change its temperature. Then, through the power of evaporation, the warm or cool air is pushed into your home.
Studies show that geothermal heat pumps can cut carbon emissions in buildings by 50%. These heat pumps can also support half of your energy consumption, reducing your electricity bills. While geothermal heat pumps have a high upfront cost, they tend to pay for themselves within 4 to 7 years. These investments are even more worth it if you can take advantage of federal and state utility rebates.
Learn more about geothermal heat pumps and how they work through the Missouri Geo Association. OVEC employees are also happy to discuss the installation process, and answer any questions you have to determine if a geothermal heat pump is right for your home. Call us today at 1-660-679-3131, ext 5547 to learn more.
Wind Energy
OVEC members can invest in wind energy through the use of turbines. While this is one way to switch your energy consumption to a more renewable resource, the upfront investment cost might not be worth it if your primary goal is to save money. Osage Valley does not provide rebates for installing a wind energy system.
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has found that it is difficult to install a wind turbine system, that will allow you to break even or significantly reduce your utility bills. The site of the wind turbine must have an average annual wind speed of over 12 mph at 80-120 feet. The majority of the state does not meet these requirements, and Missouri's average wind speed is 10 mph.
If you are still interested in investing in wind energy, the OVEC engineering department can assist you in the planning stages. Call us today at 1-660-679-3131, ext 5547 for assistance.
