Solar Panels Cost $0k-$0k in Buena Vista County, IA | November, 2024
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How much do solar panels cost in Buena Vista County, IA in 2024?
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Getting solar panels costs about $0/W in November, 2024 in Buena Vista County, IA.
Using this rate per watt, expect the price to be $0, on average, for every 1000 watts (or 1 kW) of solar energy your system will need to produce. With a 30% federal tax credit, the average expense for a 5 kW system in Buena Vista County is about $0. A larger system may be required to ensure your energy needs are met.
To the left, you have the option to select your county and find out the average roof size along with the average maximum capacity for residential solar in homes in your area. Displayed below is a summary of the costs, payback period, and 20-year average savings for a 5 kW system in your county.
Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Buena Vista County: $0US Average: $12,523
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Buena Vista County: 0 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Buena Vista County: $42,929US Average: $16,169
Solar Potential in Buena Vista County
Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in Buena Vista County.
Roof size 661sq. ft.
Capacity 9.25kW DC
Electricity 10.9kkWh AC per yr.
Electricity Costs in Buena Vista County, IA & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing
The average electric bill for an electricity consumer in Buena Vista County is 178.87 and the average number of kWh used each month per household is 1,350. Small houses, such as studios and apartments, are also factored in the numbers cited in the prior sentence.
Buena Vista County, IA's electricity rate is 13.25¢ per kWh in November 2024.
The estimated cost for an 11 kW solar panel installation will be $0 before incentives, but after a 30% federal tax credit, the price is $0.
Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.
Average solar panel costs by system size in Buena Vista County
On the left, you will find a cost breakdown for various solar panel system sizes installed in Buena Vista County. The initial cost for bigger solar systems is larger, but they also offer more significant electricity savings and higher income tax credits.
View a cost benefit analysis in the solar panel cost calculator down and to the right, for an average electric bill of $178.87 in Buena Vista County. For results that are customized, change the $178.87 to reflect your average electricity bill.
System Size
Roof Size Min. space required
Electricity Value Annual Production
Est. Price
System Size 7kW
Roof Size Min. space required
501 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,355 a year
Est. Price
$0
Savings from a 7kWthis system
Est. yearly production 10,422 kWh
Est. monthly savings $113
Full payback in 0 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.69 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 124 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 6,661 mi less a year
System Size 8kW
Roof Size Min. space required
572 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,548 a year
Est. Price
$0
Savings from a 8kWthis system
Est. yearly production 11,911 kWh
Est. monthly savings $129
Full payback in 0 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.08 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 141 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 7,613 mi less a year
System Size 9kW
Roof Size Min. space required
644 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,742 a year
Est. Price
$0
Savings from a 9kWthis system
Est. yearly production 13,400 kWh
Est. monthly savings $145
Full payback in 0 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.46 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 159 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 8,565 mi less a year
System Size 10kW
Roof Size Min. space required
715 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,936 a year
Est. Price
$0
Savings from a 10kWthis system
Est. yearly production 14,889 kWh
Est. monthly savings $161
Full payback in 0 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.84 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 177 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 9,516 mi less a year
System Size 11kW
Roof Size Min. space required
787 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $2,129 a year
Est. Price
$0
Savings from a 11kWthis system
Est. yearly production 16,377 kWh
Est. monthly savings $177
Full payback in 0 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.23 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 194 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 10,468 mi less a year
Buena Vista County Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024
Eligible rural small businesses and agricultural operations might have their photovoltaic or wind turbine installation costs covered by the REAP Grant, ranging from 80% to 100%. Believe you fit the criteria? Confirm your eligibility with our REAP Grant eligibility tool.
Homeowners can take advantage of a 30% federal income tax credit for setting up residential solar panels, which makes solar power a feasible option in much of the country. Together with federal efforts, state and local programs help to support the use of solar power.
Iowa features 9 solar rebate and incentive initiatives provided by multiple utilities and government organizations.
Solar incentives in IAIncentive Description Value
Solar Energy Systems Tax Credit (Personal)
Value:Up to $5,000
Iowa residents who purchase and use solar energy devices may be entitled to an individual tax credit in place of the Iowa Production Tax Credit. The total credit a taxpayer may claim equals 50% of the equivalent federal credit up to $5,000. The Department of Revenue will carry over excess credits for a maximum of ten years. Applicants should submit paperwork for this credit only after the system is installed and operational. Credits are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional information is available from the Iowa Department of Revenue website.
Waverly Light & Power - Residential Solar Thermal Rebates
Value:Up to $3,500
Residential Waverly Light and Power customers may be entitled to a one-time rebate on new solar water heaters. Rebate awards are contingent upon the property owner obtaining necessary permits from their county and installing the system through a participating contractor. Each address, rather than each homeowner, may only receive one rebate. As funding for the rebate program is limited each year, applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested customers may apply or find more information on the WL&P website.
Solar Energy Systems Tax Credit (Corporate)
Value:Up to $20,000
Iowa businesses that purchase and use solar energy devices may be entitled to a corporate tax credit in place of the Iowa Production Tax Credit. The total credit a commercial entity may claim equals 50% of the equivalent federal credit up to $20,000. The Department of Revenue will carry over excess credits for a maximum of ten years. Applicants should submit paperwork for this credit only after the system is installed and operational. Credits are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional information is available from the Iowa Department of Revenue website.
Waverly Light & Power - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebates
Value:Varies
Residential Waverly Light and Power customers may be entitled to a variety of rebates on energy efficient projects and equipment. Qualifying projects and programs change from time to time. Current offers include rebates on water heaters, heat pumps, insulation, central HVAC, and some home appliances. Some weatherization projects may be completed at no expense to the homeowner. Additional information is available through the WL&P website.
City of Dubuque - Solar Thermal Licensing Requirement
Value:Varies
Solar contractors intending to install a thermal system on Dubuque property must obtain a specialized license from the city in addition to state contracting licenses, journeymen's permits, or applicable municipal building permits. PV systems do not need a Dubuque license. The simplest qualification for most contractors is a minimum NABCEP Solar Thermal certification. Alternatively, installation workers may complete vocational education from Northeast IA Community College. Additional information is available on the Dubuque city website.
Mandatory Utility Green Power Option
Value:Varies
By Iowa law, all electric utilities operating within the state must offer green or renewable energy options when customers request a line extension or first connect to the electrical grid. The Iowa Utilities Board (IUB) keeps track of each utility's options and distributed energy tariff programs. Additional information is available from the IUB website.
Ames Electric Department - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs
Value:Varies
Ames residents looking to make energy efficiency improvements or install renewable energy equipment may be entitled to a variety of financial incentives from the city's municipal utility. Qualifying projects and programs will vary over time. Current rebate offers include central HVAC with load control and ENERGY STAR certified home appliances. An additional program incentivizes new home construction that considers ENERGY STAR building standards. Interested homeowners may schedule a free in-home energy efficiency audit with an Ames Electric Services representative. At the time of the audit, the representative may provide equipment to immediately improve home efficiency, including LED bulbs or pipe insulation. Additional information is available from the Ames city website.
IADG Energy Bank Revolving Loan Program
Value:Varies
The Iowa Area Development Group, together with the Iowa Economic Development Authority, manages a revolving loan fund for businesses within the state to install renewable energy systems or make energy efficiency improvements. Loans are available at no interest and will be serviced by IADG or one of the fund's lending partners. Projects funded by these loans should be geared toward cost-efficacy and productivity for the business and job creation for the state. Additional information is available from the IADG website.
Renewable Energy Equipment Exemption
Value:Varies
Solar PV, hydro, and wind energy devices in Iowa are exempt from state sales tax. All solar and hydro system equipment qualifies by default; for wind systems, system, manufacturing, and installation costs are all exempt. Additional information is available from the Iowa Department of Revenue website.
Are solar panels worth it in Buena Vista County, IA?
If you plan living in your home longer than the solar system's payback period, installing solar panels is an smart decision in Buena Vista County. If you install a 5 kW solar system in Buena Vista County, IA, you might save $42,928.8 over 20 years on average, with a break even point at approximately 0 years.
The cost of not having solar panels in Buena Vista County, IA
The absence of solar panels or an alternative energy backup means that you forgo the savings mentioned earlier and are wholly reliant on your electric utility for electricity. As shown by numerous recent news reports, complete dependence on your utility is not always ideal.
On average, customers in Buena Vista County have faced 0.8 utility outages per year over the past few years. The typical duration of each outage is 82.74 minutes. When significant events such as lightning strikes, overloaded power grids, or planned maintenance occur, these time frames can become much longer.
Take a look at the component below to see the number of current electricity customers without power in Buena Vista County.
A solar energy system could reduce the effects of future outages, whether or not it has a backup battery.
Power Outages
Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Buena Vista County.
What impacts the cost of solar panels in Buena Vista County, IA?
Your Energy Needs - Investing in larger solar panel systems costs more upfront, but the price per watt is decreased as the system size grows. Installing a solar panel system that can cover the electric bill is useful to individuals because of the reduced long-term costs.
Make & Model - Just like other products, solar panels come in a wide variety of makes and models. The system preferences of your chosen installer can make it essential to choose a reputable company. Opting for better quality equipment can provide a much better long-term experience for the buyer.
Solar Panel Type - For valid reasons, monocrystalline panels have become the standard in the industry. They are costlier but provide more energy. Many professionals in solar installation work with panels made from this material.
Your Property - Every home and property differs in its own way. Challenges such as sloping terrain, trees, or other considerations can increase the difficulty of installing solar panels. Solar installers now have the ability to leverage satellite images to evaluate your home and include these considerations in the initial cost estimate.
Labor Rates - The pay employees receive from their employers differ, and these expenses are borne by the consumers. Paying higher wages frequently results in companies receiving better reviews for their work and customer service.
Permitting & Interconnection - Permitting and utility interconnection fees differ locally and will influence your installation cost. Quality local installers will integrate these numbers into your initial quotes to avoid any surprises.
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Buena Vista County, IA Solar Panel Cost FAQs
In November, 2024, the typical price per watt for solar panels in Buena Vista County, IA is $0/W. The approximate cost of a 5 kW solar panel system in Buena Vista County, IA, after deducting federal tax credits, is $0.
Utilities and government agencies in Iowa are currently offering 9 different rebates and incentives. Furthermore, the majority of people qualify for the 30% federal tax credit.
Paying cash offers the highest savings, but there are now numerous financing options for solar panels that are also financially beneficial. Installers frequently provide financing options and will specify them in your initial quotes.
Yes, the average 5 kW solar panel payback time in Buena Vista County, IA is 0 years, with expected savings of $42,928.8 on electricity over 20 years.
Savings from 
Environmental Impacts 
