Frances Babb
Frances Babb is a solar rights advocate and retired information technology professional based in Chesterfield, Missouri. With more than three decades of experience in software development and data systems, she built a successful career working with financial institutions, government agencies, and technology organizations. Throughout her career, she held a wide range of roles—including business analyst, senior programmer/analyst, technical architect, tester, and project manager—developing deep expertise in full life cycle software development and implementation. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Statistics from Truman State University, a foundation that supported her analytical and problem-solving approach throughout her technical career.
After retiring from the technology sector, Babb dedicated her time to solar energy advocacy following a lengthy legal battle to install solar panels on her own home. Over the course of several years, she successfully defended her right to use solar energy against challenges from both her city and homeowners association. The experience, though personally difficult, ultimately inspired her to help others facing similar barriers. Since 2011, she has volunteered extensively to support homeowners seeking fair access to residential solar energy, offering guidance, education, and advocacy to individuals navigating opposition from municipalities, homeowners associations, and utility companies.
Today, Babb is widely recognized for her work promoting solar rights and educating the public about renewable energy policies. She frequently speaks at public hearings, city council meetings, and planning and zoning sessions, helping communities better understand solar energy systems and the legal rights associated with them. She also spent more than a decade advocating for Missouri’s HOA Solar Rights legislation and continues to testify on solar policy and net metering laws. Known for her respectful and educational approach, Babb combines technical knowledge, public speaking skills, and a passion for civic engagement to advance equitable access to solar energy.
• Truman State University - BS
• 2024 Solar Advocate of the Year
• Solar Energy Advocacy
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, dedication, and staying goal-oriented while remaining open-minded and eager to learn. These qualities have helped me stay focused and continue growing both personally and professionally.
My background as a school teacher strengthened my public speaking and communication skills, allowing me to explain complex ideas clearly and connect with diverse audiences.
I also credit my persistence, particularly through lengthy legal battles with my city and homeowners association to secure my own solar installation. That experience strengthened my determination and inspired my continued volunteer advocacy for solar access.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to not be afraid of the unknown and to embrace change. Growth often happens outside of our comfort zones, and being open to new opportunities and challenges can lead to meaningful personal and professional development.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women entering this industry to lead by example, know their worth, and not be intimidated by others. Always strive for excellence and look for ways to make a positive impact every day.
While challenges such as neighborhood opposition, HOA restrictions, municipal resistance, and utility pushback against net metering exist, there are also opportunities. State-level legislation and court decisions can help protect homeowners’ rights to install solar, showing that persistence and advocacy can lead to meaningful change.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is raising awareness and educating the public about solar panel energy—how the systems work, the products available, and the legal rights homeowners have when it comes to installation.
At the same time, this presents a significant opportunity. By improving education and access to accurate information, we can empower more homeowners to adopt solar energy and advocate for their rights to install and benefit from renewable power.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are standing up for what I believe in, being open and honest, and treating others with respect. These principles guide my work in advocating for fair access to residential solar, challenging inequitable restrictions, and helping others secure the right to install solar energy.