Solar Panels Cost $10k-$21k in Des Moines County, IA | November, 2024
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How much do solar panels cost in Des Moines County, IA in 2024?
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During November, 2024, the average expense for solar systems in Des Moines County, IA was $3.82/W.
Utilizing the rate per watt, we are able to come to the conclusion that for every 1 kW (1000 watts) of solar generation capacounty will cost you $3,820 for installation. Applying the 30% federal tax credit, the typical cost for a 5 kW system in Des Moines County is approximately $13,370. Please note that a bigger system may be required to ensure your energy needs are met.
On the left-hand side, pick your county to access information on the typical roof size and the average maximum capacity for residential solar on homes within your area. You can review the price, payback period, and 20-year average savings for a 5 kW system installed in your county below.
Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Des Moines County: $13,370US Average: $12,523
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Des Moines County: 8 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Des Moines County: $16,154US Average: $16,169
Solar Potential in Des Moines County
Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in Des Moines County.
Roof size 661sq. ft.
Capacity 9.25kW DC
Electricity 10.9kkWh AC per yr.
Electricity Costs in Des Moines County, IA & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing
In Des Moines County, energy consumers usually spend 146.89 on their electric bill each month, consuming 958 kWh on average. Keep in mind that this number encompasses smaller homes and apartments, which typically have less energy consumption.
The average electricity rate in Des Moines County, IA in November 2024 is 15.34¢ per kWh.
Right now, an 8 kW solar panel installation will cost around $30,560 upfront, but after the 30% federal tax credit, the price is reduced to $21,392.
Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.
Average solar panel costs by system size in Des Moines County
On the left side below, you'll find the price breakdown for different sizes of the solar panel systems installed in Des Moines County. Even though a more extensive solar installation has a larger expense, it also provides increased electricity savings and larger income tax credits.
In the solar panel cost calculator found down and to the right, you can examine a cost and benefit breakdown to match an average $146.89 electric bill in Des Moines County. For tailored results, change the $146.89 to whichever your usual electricity bill is.
System Size
Roof Size Min. space required
Electricity Value Annual Production
Est. Price
System Size 4kW
Roof Size Min. space required
286 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $893 a year
Est. Price
$10,696
Savings from a 4kWthis system
Est. yearly production 5,955 kWh
Est. monthly savings $74
Full payback in 6 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.26 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 104 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 5,598 mi less a year
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,117 a year
Est. Price
$13,370
Savings from a 5kWthis system
Est. yearly production 7,444 kWh
Est. monthly savings $93
Full payback in 8 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.83 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 130 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 6,998 mi less a year
System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,340 a year
Est. Price
$16,044
Savings from a 6kWthis system
Est. yearly production 8,933 kWh
Est. monthly savings $112
Full payback in 9 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.39 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 156 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 8,397 mi less a year
System Size 7kW
Roof Size Min. space required
501 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,563 a year
Est. Price
$18,718
Savings from a 7kWthis system
Est. yearly production 10,422 kWh
Est. monthly savings $130
Full payback in 11 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.96 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 182 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 9,797 mi less a year
System Size 8kW
Roof Size Min. space required
572 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,787 a year
Est. Price
$21,392
Savings from a 8kWthis system
Est. yearly production 11,911 kWh
Est. monthly savings $147
Full payback in 12 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.47 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 205 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 11,055 mi less a year
Des Moines County Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024
Eligible rural small businesses and farms might have their photovoltaic or wind turbine installation costs covered by the REAP Grant, ranging from 80% to 100%. If you believe you might qualify, we suggest trying our REAP Grant eligibility tool to verify.
For those considering residential solar options, a 30% federal income tax credit is broadly available, increasing the appeal and practicality of solar energy in many areas across the nation. Additionally, there are numerous state and local incentives to further promote the adoption of solar energy.
A total of 9 solar rebates and incentives are available in Iowa through various utility companies and government departments.
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 Des Moines County, IA?
For those intending to stay in their home past the solar system's payback period, solar panels are a wise investment in Des Moines County. In Des Moines County, IA, the installation of a 5 kW solar system can save you an average of $21,883.6 over 20 years, with an average break even point of 8 years.
The cost of not having solar panels in Des Moines County, IA
Failing to install solar panels or an alternative backup energy means missing the savings mentioned earlier and being entirely reliant on your electric utility for electricity. The news has provided several examples highlighting that full reliance on your utility isn't always the best idea.
Yearly, customers in Des Moines County have dealt with approximately 0.98 utility outages.Each year, customers in Des Moines County have experienced approximately 0.98 utility outages. The average duration of each outage is 103.1 minutes. During severe events like winter storms, overloaded power grids, or wildlife damage, these times can grow significantly longer.
See the info below to see the number of current electricity customers without power in Des Moines County.
A solar panel system with (or without) a backup battery could ease the strain of future outages you experience.
Power Outages
Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Des Moines County.
What impacts the cost of solar panels in Des Moines County, IA?
Your Energy Needs - Even though larger solar panel systems are more expensive initially, the average price per watt lowers as the system size increases. Setting up a solar panel system that can fully offset the electric bill is advantageous to individuals because of the reduced long-term costs.
Make & Model - Solar panels, similar to many other products, are available in a variety of makes and models. The contractor’s preference for brand makes it crucial to choose a recommended company. Consumers who choose better equipment usually enjoy a better long-term experience.
Solar Panel Type - It's no surprise that monocrystalline panels are now the standard in the industry. These panels have a higher cost but yield more energy. Most installers in the industry utilize panels made from this material.
Your Property - Trees, uneven landscapes, or other barriers can increase the difficulty of the installation. Nowadays, solar installers typically leverage satellite images to evaluate your home and incorporate these considerations into the preliminary cost estimate.
Labor Rates - Companies pay different wages to their employees, and these expenses are inevitably borne by the consumers. It is commonly observed that companies with higher wages garner superior reviews for their services and customer service.
Permitting & Interconnection - The cost of installation will be affected by different local permitting and utility interconnection fees. Quality local installers will integrate these numbers into your first quotes to prevent any surprises.
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Des Moines County, IA Solar Panel Cost FAQs
As of November, 2024, the average solar panel installation cost in Des Moines County, IA has reached $3.82/W. Post federal tax credit, a 5 kW solar panel system installation in Des Moines County, IA will roughly cost $13,370.
As of now, there are 9 rebates and incentives offered by various utilities and government entities in Iowa. Furthermore, the majority of people qualify for the 30% federal tax credit.
Paying in cash yields the highest savings, but there are multiple financing options available today for solar panels that are also cost-effective. Initial quotes from installers will frequently detail information about available financing options.
Yes, in Des Moines County, IA, 5 kW solar panel systems typically pay off in 8 years, and users save around $21,883.6 in electricity costs over 20 years.
Savings from 
Environmental Impacts 
