Solar Panels Cost $8.2k-$19k in Dubuque, IA | July, 2025

Electricity Costs in Dubuque, IA & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing

The standard kWh usage for a Dubuque resident is 814 monthly, with an average electric bill of $127.35. Compact apartments are also included in the numbers mentioned in the prior sentence. The lower energy use in these types of residences impacts those averages.

In July 2025, the mean electricity rate in Dubuque, IA is 15.65¢ per kWh.

In Dubuque, a system size of 7 kW or larger is needed for the typical energy consumer to account for their entire electricity consumption requirements. After incentives, a 7 kW solar installation costs around $19,208.

Are solar panels worth it in Iowa?

Homeowners in Dubuque who expect to live in their residence beyond the payback period of their solar system will find solar panels an clear choice. A 5 kW system in Dubuque, IA will enable you to save the average homeowner, on average, $16,844 over a 20 period and the average break even point is 9 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in Dubuque, IA

The absence of solar panels or another backup power source means missing out on the previously highlighted savings and full dependence on your electric utility for power. Recent news examples have shown that full reliance on your utility provider is not always ideal.

Each year, the average number of outages per customer in Dubuque is about 0.66. The average length of an outage is 57.42 minutes. However, during significant events such as equipment failure, landslides or planned maintenance, this duration can grow considerably.

Whether it includes a backup battery or not, a solar panel system could ease the inconvenience of any future power interruptions you may encounter.

What impacts the cost of solar panels in Dubuque, 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. It is often useful for homeowners to set up a solar system that can make enough electricity to completely replace their electric bill, which results in substantial savings.

Make & Model - Solar panels and mounting equipment, similar to many other products, are available in a variety of makes and models. Your installer’s potential brand preferences make it more important to pick a highly rated contractor. Consumers who choose superior makes and models generally enjoy a superior long-term experience.

Solar Panel Type - It's understandable that monocrystalline panels are now the standard in the industry. These panels are more expensive but produce more energy. The majority of installers in the industry use panels crafted from this material.

Your Property - No two homes or properties are the same. Elements such as trees, sloping terrain, or additional challenges might complicate the installation process. These days, solar installers typically leverage satellite images to evaluate your home and factor in these considerations into the preliminary cost estimate.

Labor Rates - Different companies have varied pay scales for their employees, and these costs are eventually passed on to consumers. Higher wages typically lead to businesses getting better reviews for their work and customer service.

Permitting & Interconnection - Your final installation cost will be impacted by local permitting and utility interconnection fees, which vary by area. Reliable installers will factor these costs into your initial quotes to prevent unexpected expenses.