Solar Panels Cost $12k-$22k in Lewiston, ID | October, 2024
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How much do solar panels cost in Lewiston, ID in 2024?
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You'll pay approximately $3.51/W to go solar in Lewiston, ID in the month of October, 2024.
You should expect to spend $3,510, on average, for every 1 kW (or 1000 watts) of solar energy your panels can generate. In Lewiston, a 5 kW solar setup will require you to pay, on average, $12,285 after the 30% federal income tax credit. Your electricity use habits might need a larger system.
On the left-hand side, you can choose your county to find out the typical roof size and the maximum capacity for solar panels in residences in your area. The following outline, below, highlights the costs, 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.
Lewiston: $12,285US Average: $12,562
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Lewiston: 7 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Lewiston: $15,791US Average: $15,784
Solar Potential in Lewiston
Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in Lewiston.
Roof size 661sq. ft.
Capacity 9.25kW DC
Electricity 10.8kkWh AC per yr.
Electricity Costs in Lewiston, ID & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing
For Lewiston energy consumers, the typical electric bill is $138.92 per month, with a usage of 1,071 kWh. Compact apartments are also encompassed in the statistics mentioned in the previous sentence. The lower energy use in these types of residences impacts those averages.
The average electricity rate in Lewiston, ID in October 2024 is 12.97¢ per kWh.
To satisfy the electricity consumption of a typical consumer in Lewiston, a solar system of 9 kW or more is necessary. Presently, a 9 kW solar installation will cost you roughly $31,590at first, but thanks to the 30% federal tax credit, you get a 30% reimbursement, lowering the price to $22,113.
Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.
Average solar panel costs by system size in Lewiston
Located below and to the left, there is the cost summary for multiple sizes of the solar panel systems set up in Lewiston. Bigger solar installations carry a larger expense, yet they also yield greater electricity savings and higher income tax credits.
The solar panel cost calculator, located to the right and below, provides a breakdown of costs and benefits using an average $138.92 electric bill for Lewiston. If you prefer more customized results, just modify the $138.92 to whatever your average electricity bill is.
System Size
Roof Size Min. space required
Electricity Value Annual Production
Est. Price
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,026 a year
Est. Price
$12,285
Savings from a 5kWthis system
Est. yearly production 7,893 kWh
Est. monthly savings $86
Full payback in 7 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.27 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 58 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 3,137 mi less a year
System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,231 a year
Est. Price
$14,742
Savings from a 6kWthis system
Est. yearly production 9,472 kWh
Est. monthly savings $103
Full payback in 9 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.52 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 70 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 3,764 mi less a year
System Size 7kW
Roof Size Min. space required
501 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,437 a year
Est. Price
$17,199
Savings from a 7kWthis system
Est. yearly production 11,050 kWh
Est. monthly savings $120
Full payback in 10 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.77 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 81 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 4,391 mi less a year
System Size 8kW
Roof Size Min. space required
572 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,642 a year
Est. Price
$19,656
Savings from a 8kWthis system
Est. yearly production 12,629 kWh
Est. monthly savings $137
Full payback in 12 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.03 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 93 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 5,018 mi less a year
System Size 9kW
Roof Size Min. space required
644 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,847 a year
Est. Price
$22,113
Savings from a 9kWthis system
Est. yearly production 14,207 kWh
Est. monthly savings $139
Full payback in 13 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.06 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 95 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 5,099 mi less a year
Lewiston Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024
Between 80% and 100% of your solar energy or wind turbine installation costs may be covered by the REAP Grant if you own a rural small business or farm. If you believe yourself eligible, we recommend using our REAP Grant eligibility tool to confirm your qualification.
Most residents can take advantage of a 30% federal income tax credit for residential solar, which makes it a feasible option in various areas of the United States. In addition, numerous state and local programs work to further encourage the adoption of solar power.
Different utilities and government organizations in Idaho have 7 solar rebate and incentive programs.
Solar incentives in IDIncentive Description Value
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 Idaho?
If you intend to own your residence longer than the solar system's payback period, solar panels are a good investment in Lewiston. Over a 20 year period, a 5 kW solar system in Lewiston, ID could save you approximately $21,055.8, with the average break even time being 7 years.
The cost of not having solar panels in Lewiston, ID
Besides missing out on the previously mentioned savings, not having solar panels or any backup energy system leaves you totally reliant on your electric utility for power. As demonstrated by recent news, total dependence on your utility isn't always the most favorable situation.
Lately, utilities in Lewiston have reported an average of 2.02 outages per customer annually. On average, each outage lasts for 145.41 minutes. Major events like tornadoes, equipment failure, or wildlife damage can considerably extend these durations.
Regardless of whether a backup battery is there or not, a solar panel system could reduce the pressure of potential future outages.
Power Outages
Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Nez Perce County.
What impacts the cost of solar panels in Lewiston, ID?
Your Energy Needs - Even though larger solar panel systems have a higher initial cost, the cost per watt declines. Many consumers find it advantageous to install a system that can generate enough electricity to offset the entirety of their electric bill. This math makes the most sense for optimal savings.
Make & Model - Just like any other product, solar panels and mounting equipment are available in a variety of makes and models. The potential brand preferences of your chosen installer make it crucial to pick a recommended contractor. Opting for better quality equipment usually provides a more satisfying long-term experience for the buyer.
Solar Panel Type - Monocrystalline panels have become the industry standard, and for good reason. They are costlier but generate more energy. Most professionals in solar installation work with panels crafted from this material.
Your Property - Each property and home has its own characteristics. Factors such as trees, sloping terrain, or additional considerations can make the installation more challenging. Using satellite images, most solar installers these days can evaluate your home and incorporate these considerations into the preliminary cost estimate.
Labor Rates - Various wages are paid to employees by various companies, and these expenses are transferred to the consumers. Businesses paying higher wages typically get better reviews for their work and customer service.
Permitting & Interconnection - Depending on the area, local permitting and utility interconnection fees will influence the cost of your installation. Reliable local installers will build these figures into your first estimates to eliminate any surprises.
Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
Consulting on all things solar related.
Lewiston, ID Solar Panel Cost FAQs
The typical cost per watt for solar panels in Lewiston, ID as of October, 2024 is $3.51/W. For a 5 kW solar panel system, the total cost in Lewiston, ID after federal tax credits is around $12,285.
At present, there are 7 rebates and incentives available to Idaho residents from various utility and government programs. Furthermore, the majority of people qualify for the 30% federal tax credit.
While cash payments offer the most savings, there are now many financing options for solar panels that are also advantageous. Information about financing options is typically detailed in initial quotes provided by installers.
Yes, homeowners in Lewiston, ID generally see a payback time of 7 years for 5 kW solar panel systems, with electricity savings averaging $21,055.8 over a 20-year period.
Savings from 
Environmental Impacts 
