Solar Panels Cost 9.7k-19k in Gem County, ID | November, 2024

Solar Panels Cost $9.7k-$19k in Gem County, ID | November, 2024

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How much do solar panels cost in Gem County, ID in 2024?

Going solar in the month of November, 2024 in Gem County, ID averages out to $3.49/W.

Each 1 kW (1000 watts) of solar generation capacounty will cost you $3,490 for installation. We are able to come to this conclusion in accordance with this rate price cost. After receiving the 30% federal tax credit, a 5 kW solar setup in Gem County will cost approximately $12,215. A 5kW system may not be large enough to adequately cover your energy requirements.

To the left, you have the option to select your county and find the average roof size along with the average maximum capacity for solar panels in homes in your area. Below, you can find a complete summary of the price, payback period, and 20-year typical 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.
Gem County: $12,215US Average: $12,523
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Gem County: 9 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Gem County: $8,940US Average: $16,169

Solar Potential in Gem County

Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in
Gem County.

Roof size 787sq. ft.
Capacity 11kW DC
Electricity 15.3kkWh AC per yr.

Electricity Costs in Gem County, ID & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing

In Gem County, the typical electric bill for an electricity consumer is 109.96, with a typical monthly usage of 927 kWh. This data take into account apartments and other smaller housing units with generally lower energy demand.

The electricity rate per kWh in Gem County, ID for November 2024 is on average 11.86¢.

You can expect to pay about $27,920for an 8 kW setup before incentives, but the federal tax credit gives you 30% back, reducing the price to $19,544.

Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.

Average solar panel costs by system size in Gem County

Displayed below and to the left is the price structure for various sizes of the solar panel systems set up in Gem County. Even though a larger solar installation has a higher price, it also offers higher electricity savings and more substantial income tax credits.

The solar panel calculator, located down and to the right, provides a detailed cost and benefit analysis based on a typical $109.96 electric bill for Gem County. Just change the $109.96 to your average electricity bill for more precise results.

System Size 4kW
Roof Size Min. space required
286 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $758 a year
Est. Price
$9,772
Savings from a 4kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 6,314 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $63
  • Full payback in 7 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 0.95 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 44 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 2,349 mi less a year
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $947 a year
Est. Price
$12,215
Savings from a 5kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 7,893 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $79
  • Full payback in 9 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.19 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 54 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 2,937 mi less a year
System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,137 a year
Est. Price
$14,658
Savings from a 6kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 9,472 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $95
  • Full payback in 11 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.42 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 65 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 3,524 mi less a year
System Size 7kW
Roof Size Min. space required
501 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,326 a year
Est. Price
$17,101
Savings from a 7kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 11,050 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $110
  • Full payback in 13 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.65 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 76 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 4,093 mi less a year
System Size 8kW
Roof Size Min. space required
572 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,515 a year
Est. Price
$19,544
Savings from a 8kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 12,629 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $110
  • Full payback in 15 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.65 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 76 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 4,093 mi less a year

Gem County Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024

Eligible rural small businesses and agricultural operations might have their solar or wind turbine installation costs covered by the REAP Grant, ranging from 80% to 100%. If you think you might be eligible, try our REAP Grant eligibility tool to check your qualification.

With the 30% federal income tax credit, nearly all homeowners are eligible for residential solar, making it a practical option in many regions in the United States. Moreover, several state and local efforts are in place to further boost the adoption of solar energy.

Multiple utilities and government bodies in Idaho have 7 solar rebate and incentive programs.

Solar incentives in ID

Questar Gas - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs

Value:Up to $50

Residential Questar Gas customers may be entitled to financial incentives for energy-efficient equipment or upgrades through the ThermWise program. Eligible projects will vary from time to time. Currently, HVAC and water heating/boiler systems, windows, insulation/weatherization, smart thermostats, and certain kitchen or laundry appliances may earn a rebate. To qualify, the equipment should conform to Questar's own standards and be installed by a participating program contractor. Additional information is available on the ThermSafe website.

Questar Gas - Home Builder Rebate Program

Value:Up to $50

Homebuilders in the Questar Gas service area are incentivized to follow energy-efficient building standards through the ThermSafe program. Rebates are offered for whole-house construction and specific parts and equipment. For the latter option, eligible projects will vary from time to time. Additional information and application forms are available from the ThermSafe website.

Questar Gas - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program

Value:Up to $75

Commercial Questar Gas customers may be entitled to financial incentives for energy-efficient equipment or building upgrades through the ThermWise program. Eligible projects will vary from time to time. Currently, HVAC and water heating systems, insulation/weatherization, and kitchen or laundry appliances may earn a rebate. The standard rebate amount is $1/saved therm for the first year, with a hard maximum of up to half of project costs. To apply, a business should submit a proposal with quantified details of expected gas usage reduction. Only projects approved with the proposal are eligible for incentives. Additional information is available from the ThermSafe website.

Idaho Power - Net Metering

Value:Varies

Idaho Power (IDP) is one of three Idaho utilities that may sign independent net metering contracts with renewable energy customers. Eligible generation technologies for net metering include solar, wind, biomass, fuel cell, and hydroelectric. At the beginning of the contract period, IDP will install or activate a bidirectional meter tracking net excess generation (NEG) sent back to the grid. Customers will receive monthly bill credits for NEG at a fixed rate. Should generation exceed consumption for a certain billing cycle, credits roll forward through the end of the year, at which point IDP will mail the customer a check for the outstanding amount. Certain capacity ceilings apply. Additional information is available through the IDP website.

Avista Utilities - Net Metering

Value:Varies

Avista Power is one of three Idaho utilities that may sign independent net metering contracts with renewable energy customers. Eligible generation technologies for net metering include solar, wind, biomass, fuel cell, and hydroelectric. At the beginning of the contract period, Avista will install or activate a bidirectional meter tracking net excess generation (NEG) sent back to the grid. Customers will receive monthly bill credits for NEG at a fixed rate. Should generation exceed consumption for a certain billing cycle, credits roll forward through the end of the year, at which point Avista will mail the customer a check for the outstanding amount. Certain capacity ceilings apply. Additional information is available through the Avista website.

Low-Interest Energy Loan Programs

Value:Varies

Residents and businesses in Idaho may be eligible for special financing on energy efficiency improvements through the State Energy Loan Program (SELP). Projects that qualify for loans include lighting, windows, insulation/weatherization, HVAC, certain large appliances, and new renewable energy systems (solar PV, small turbines, etc.) SELP applicants are subject to standard credit checks and must provide property or equipment collateral to secure the loan. Once approved, interest rates remain at 4% for a maximum 5-year payment term. A $100 (residential) or $250 (commercial) administrative fee must be paid between project approval and the credit check. Additional information is available from the Idaho Office of Energy Resources website.

Rocky Mountain Power - Net Metering

Value:Varies

Rocky Mountain Power is one of three Idaho utilities that may sign independent net metering contracts with renewable energy customers. Eligible generation technologies for net metering include solar, wind, biomass, fuel cell, and hydroelectric. At the beginning of the contract period, RMP will install or activate a bidirectional meter tracking net excess generation (NEG) sent back to the grid. Customers will receive monthly bill credits for NEG at a fixed rate. Should generation exceed consumption for a certain billing cycle, credits roll forward through the end of the year, at which point RMP will mail the customer a check for the outstanding amount. Certain capacity ceilings apply. Additional information is available through the RMP website.

Are solar panels worth it in Gem County, ID?

For those in Gem County looking to stay in their homes past the payback period of their solar system, solar panels make excellent sense. By installing a 5 kW solar system in Gem County, ID, you can expect to save around $14,175.4 over 20 years, with the break even point generally being 9 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in Gem County, ID

The lack of solar panels or another energy backup means you'll forgo the earlier mentioned savings and be entirely reliant on your electric utility for power. The media has highlighted several cases where complete reliance on your utility isn't always the best scenario.

Each year, the utilities in Gem County have reported about 1.16 outages per customer. The typical duration of each outage is 142.53 minutes. When significant events such as equipment failure, landslides or construction accidents occur, these time frames can become much longer.

See the component below to see the number of current electricity customers without power in Gem County.

Even without a backup battery, a solar panel system could relieve the strain of possible future power disruptions you may face.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Gem County.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.

What impacts the cost of solar panels in Gem County, ID?

Your Energy Needs - Larger solar panel systems have a higher upfront cost, but the cost per watt declines as the system size increases. Individuals often find that installing a solar system that can fully cover their electric bill is very advantageous. This method ensures increased savings.

Make & Model - Just like many products, solar panels are available in a variety of makes and models. The potential system preferences of your chosen installer make it essential to choose a highly rated installer. Choosing superior quality materials can result in a much better long-term experience for the buyer.

Solar Panel Type - For good reasons, monocrystalline panels have become the industry standard. Although they are costlier, they generate increased energy. Most installers utilize panels made of this material.

Your Property - Each property and home has its own unique features. Trees, uneven land, or other challenges may add to the difficulty of the installation. Currently, satellite images allow the majority of solar installers to evaluate your home and include these considerations into the preliminary cost estimate.

Labor Rates - Companies pay different wages to their employees, and these costs are eventually borne by the consumers. Higher reviews for services and customer service are generally associated with businesses that pay higher wages.

Permitting & Interconnection - The cost of installation will be affected by different local permitting and utility interconnection fees. That said, reputable local installers will be able to integrate these numbers into your preliminary quotes so there are no surprises.

See what solar panels cost in other Gem County cities

Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.

Who are the best solar installers in Gem County?

Freedom Forever

Temecula, CA(800) 685-1850

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Douglass Colony Group

Commerce City, CO(877) 288-0650

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Powur PBC

Del Mar, CA(866) 467-6987

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

RISE Power

Richardson, TX(855) 747-3769

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Hunt Electric

Salt Lake City, UT(801) 975-8844

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Creative Energies

Salt Lake City, UT(801) 487-6489

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

SunPower Corporation

San Jose, CA(800) 786-7693

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Fluent Solar

Lehi, UT(844) 220-7415

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Knight Electric

Justin, TX(801) 782-8219

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Entegrity

Little Rock, AR(800) 700-1414

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Altenergy

Charlottesville, VA(434) 293-3763

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Infinity Energy

Rocklin, CA(888) 244-2513

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Empire Solar Group

Salt Lake City, UT(800) 467-4562

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Gem County, ID Solar Panel Cost FAQs

  • The cost per watt for solar panels in Gem County, ID during November of 2024 averages $3.49/W. After federal tax credits, the installation of a 5 kW solar panel system in Gem County, ID is estimated to cost $12,215.
  • Right now, Idaho has 7 rebates and incentives available through a variety of utility companies and government entities. Furthermore, almost all individuals are entitled to the 30% federal income tax credit.
  • Cash payments offer the highest savings, yet numerous financing options now available for solar panels are cost-effective as well. Installers frequently offer financing options and will include them in your initial quotes.
  • Yes, the average 5 kW solar panel payback period in Gem County, ID stands at 9 years, yielding average electricity savings of $14,175.4 over 20 years.
King Manalo
Last Reviewed By: King Manalo
Published: 2024-11-04