Solar Panels Cost $0k-$0k in Monroe County, IA | November, 2024
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How much do solar panels cost in Monroe County, IA in 2024?
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It is around $0 per watt to go solar in Monroe County, IA in November, 2024.
Utilizing this rate, you can conclude that for every 1000 watts (1 kW) of solar generation capacounty will require an investment of $0 for installation. After deducting the 30% federal tax credit, a 5 kW system in Monroe County generally costs $0. Subject to your electricity usage, your home could require a larger system.
On the left-hand side, you can select your county to view the average roof size and the maximum capacity for solar panels in residences in your area. Outlined below are the price, payback period, and 20-year average savings for a 5 kW system installed in your county.
Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Monroe County: $0US Average: $12,523
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Monroe 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.
Monroe County: $32,090US Average: $16,169
Solar Potential in Monroe County
Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in Monroe County.
Roof size 661sq. ft.
Capacity 9.25kW DC
Electricity 10.9kkWh AC per yr.
Electricity Costs in Monroe County, IA & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing
Across Monroe County, the average electric bill for an energy consumer is 133.71, with a typical monthly usage of 902 kWh. This number also comprises data from smaller living spaces like apartments with reduced energy demand.This data set reflects the energy usage patterns of smaller dwellings, including apartments.
The average electricity rate in Monroe County, IA in November 2024 is 14.82¢ per kWh.
Currently, an 8 kW solar panel installation will be priced at around $0 upfront, but the federal income tax credit will provide a 30% reimbursement, reducing the price to $0.
Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.
Average solar panel costs by system size in Monroe County
To the left below, you'll find the cost breakdown for various sizes of the solar panel systems installed in Monroe County. When you select a larger solar system, the cost is higher, but it also leads to more significant electricity savings and a larger income tax credit.
In the solar panel cost calculator situated down and to the right, you can view a cost and benefit breakdown to match an average $133.71 electric bill in Monroe County. Easily change the $133.71 to your regular electricity bill for more precise results.
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
$0
Savings from a 4kWthis system
Est. yearly production 5,955 kWh
Est. monthly savings $74
Full payback in 0 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.39 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 110 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 5,922 mi less a year
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,117 a year
Est. Price
$0
Savings from a 5kWthis system
Est. yearly production 7,444 kWh
Est. monthly savings $93
Full payback in 0 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.99 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 137 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 7,402 mi less a year
System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,340 a year
Est. Price
$0
Savings from a 6kWthis system
Est. yearly production 8,933 kWh
Est. monthly savings $112
Full payback in 0 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.59 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 165 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 8,882 mi less a year
System Size 7kW
Roof Size Min. space required
501 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,563 a year
Est. Price
$0
Savings from a 7kWthis system
Est. yearly production 10,422 kWh
Est. monthly savings $130
Full payback in 0 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.19 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 192 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 10,363 mi less a year
System Size 8kW
Roof Size Min. space required
572 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,787 a year
Est. Price
$0
Savings from a 8kWthis system
Est. yearly production 11,911 kWh
Est. monthly savings $134
Full payback in 0 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.31 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 198 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 10,659 mi less a year
Monroe County Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024
If you run a small business or farm in a rural area, you could receive REAP Grant support that covers 80% to 100% of your solar or wind turbine installation costs. If you believe you might be eligible, we suggest using our REAP Grant eligibility tool to verify your qualification.
For those considering residential solar, the 30% federal income tax credit is available to almost all homeowners, which makes solar power a good investment in various parts of the country. Additionally, numerous state and local programs aim to further promote the adoption of solar power.
Iowa residents have access to 9 solar rebate and incentive programs from multiple utilities and governmental agencies.
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 Monroe County, IA?
If you're planning to stay in your home past the period required to pay back your solar investment, installing solar panels is a good decision in Monroe County. Installing a 5 kW solar system in Monroe County, IA will, on average, save you $32,090.4 over 20 years, and you can expect to break even in about 0 years.
The cost of not having solar panels in Monroe County, IA
Without solar panels or another backup power source, you miss out on the savings highlighted previously and rely entirely on your electric utility for electricity. Recent media coverage has made it clear that relying solely on your utility isn't always the best idea.
In recent years, customers in Monroe County have typically experienced 0.9 utility outages per year. Each outage, on average, lasts for 93.12 minutes. In the case of major events like high winds, grid management errors, or wildlife damage, this period can rise substantially.
View the component below to see the number of current electricity customers without power in Monroe County.
Even without a backup battery, a solar panel system can reduce the pressure of future outages you may encounter.
Power Outages
Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Monroe County.
What impacts the cost of solar panels in Monroe County, IA?
Your Energy Needs - Although the initial cost is higher, the cost per watt declines with larger solar panel systems. Homeowners often find that installing a solar system that can cover their entire electric bill is advantageous, ensuring maximum savings.
Make & Model - There are a range of makes and models of solar panels and mounting equipment. Selecting an installer with specific brand preferences means it's even more vital important to go with a highly rated company. The selection of better materials can substantially improve the long-term experience for buyers.
Solar Panel Type - It's clear why monocrystalline panels are now the go-to choice in the industry. Even though they are more expensive, they provide more energy. Many installers work with panels made from this material.
Your Property - Each home and property is unique in its own way. Uneven ground, trees, or additional challenges may complicate the installation. Today, the majority of solar installers can assess your home with satellite images and factor in these elements in the preliminary cost estimate.
Labor Rates - The costs related to the varying wages offered by companies to their employees are borne by the consumers. Frequently, businesses paying more in wages also enjoy higher ratings for their services and customer service.
Permitting & Interconnection - The fees for local permitting and utility interconnection, which vary by area, will affect the cost of your installation. Reliable local installers will integrate these figures into your first estimates to avoid any surprises.
See what solar panels cost in other Monroe County cities
Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.
Who are the best solar installers in Monroe County?
Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
Consulting on all things solar related.
Monroe County, IA Solar Panel Cost FAQs
As of November, 2024, the average cost for solar panels in Monroe County, IA is $0/W. After federal tax credits, the installation of a 5 kW solar panel system in Monroe County, IA is estimated to cost $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 will result in the most savings, but currently there are multiple options for financing solar panels that make great money sense as well. Financing options from installers will often be specified in your initial quotes.
Yes, in Monroe County, IA, 5 kW solar panel systems typically pay off in 0 years, and users save around $32,090.4 in electricity costs over 20 years.
Savings from 
Environmental Impacts 
