Solar Panels Cost 9.5k-19k in Rathdrum, ID | November, 2024

Solar Panels Cost $9.5k-$19k in Rathdrum, ID | November, 2024

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How much do solar panels cost in Rathdrum, ID in 2024?

In Rathdrum, ID in November, 2024, the average price per watt for solar panel systems is estimated at $3.41/W

Each 1 kW (1000 watts) of solar power capacity will cost you $3,410 for installation. Subtracting the 30% federal tax credit, a 5 kW panel install in Rathdrum generally costs $11,935. Please consider, a 5kW system may not be sufficient to meet your energy requirements.

On the left side, select your county to discover the typical roof size and the maximum capacity of solar panel systems for homes in your area. Displayed below is an analysis of 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.
Rathdrum: $11,935US Average: $12,523
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Rathdrum: 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.
Rathdrum: $10,046US Average: $16,169

Solar Potential in Rathdrum

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

Roof size 787sq. ft.
Capacity 11kW DC
Electricity 12.6kkWh AC per yr.

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

The average kWh usage for Rathdrum residents is 991 monthly, with an average electric bill of $112.90. It is crucial to understand that this statistic encompasses the energy consumption of apartments and other compact living spaces.

For November 2024, Rathdrum, ID's average electricity rate amounts to 11.39¢ per kWh.

In Rathdrum, a system size of 8 kW or more is required for the average energy user to account for their full power needs. The upfront cost for an 8 kW setup is $27,280, but after a 30% tax credit, your total comes down to $19,096.

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Average solar panel costs by system size in Rathdrum

On the left side below, you can find a detailed price breakdown for multiple solar panel system sizes installed in Rathdrum. Naturally, with a more extensive solar system, there will be a larger initial investment, but the advantages consist of higher electricity savings and greater income tax credits.

The breakdown of costs and benefits for solar panels, displayed in the calculator below and to the right, is based on an average electric bill of $112.90 in Rathdrum. Change the $112.90 to your average bill payment for custom results.

System Size 4kW
Roof Size Min. space required
286 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $695 a year
Est. Price
$9,548
Savings from a 4kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 6,314 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $58
  • Full payback in 7 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.1 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 143 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 7,682 mi less a year
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $868 a year
Est. Price
$11,935
Savings from a 5kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 7,893 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $72
  • Full payback in 9 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.88 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 178 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 9,603 mi less a year
System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,042 a year
Est. Price
$14,322
Savings from a 6kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 9,472 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $87
  • Full payback in 11 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.66 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 214 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 11,524 mi less a year
System Size 7kW
Roof Size Min. space required
501 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,216 a year
Est. Price
$16,709
Savings from a 7kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 11,050 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $101
  • Full payback in 12 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 5.43 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 249 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 13,444 mi less a year
System Size 8kW
Roof Size Min. space required
572 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,389 a year
Est. Price
$19,096
Savings from a 8kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 12,629 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $113
  • Full payback in 14 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 6.06 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 278 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 14,998 mi less a year

Rathdrum Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024

Rural entrepreneurs and farmers might find that the REAP Grant pays for 80% to 100% of their costs when installing photovoltaic or wind energy systems. Believe you might qualify? Use our REAP Grant eligibility tool to confirm your eligibility.

Installing residential solar panels comes with a 30% federal tax credit, accessible to most homeowners, making it a good option for many areas across the country. Additionally, there are numerous state and local incentives to further promote the adoption of solar energy.

Different utilities and governmental bodies in Idaho offer 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 Idaho?

When you intend to live in your home beyond the payback period of your solar system, solar panels are an excellent choice in Rathdrum. If you install a 5 kW solar system in Rathdrum, ID, you might save $15,161 over 20 years on average, with a break even point at roughly 9 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in Rathdrum, ID

Beyond missing out on the savings noted above, the absence of solar panels or an alternative backup energy solution leads to total dependency on your electric utility for power. As evidenced by recent news stories, full reliance on your utility company is not always ideal.

Each year, the average number of outages per customer in Rathdrum is about 1.3. The average length of an outage is 99.66 minutes. In events like heavy rain and flooding, planned maintenance, or equipment failure, this duration can extend significantly.

Installing a solar panel system, irrespective of whether it features a backup battery, could reduce the pressure of future outages you might encounter.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Kootenai County.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

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What impacts the cost of solar panels in Rathdrum, ID?

Your Energy Needs - Though the initial cost of larger solar panel systems is larger, the price per watt diminishes as the system gets larger. It is often beneficial for consumers to set up a solar system that can produce enough electricity to offset their electric bill, which results in substantial savings.

Make & Model - Solar panels and mounting equipment, just like many other products, come in different makes and models. The installer’s preference for brand makes it essential to pick a reputable company. Better quality materials often result in a more positive long-term experience for buyers.

Solar Panel Type - There's a good reason why monocrystalline panels are now the industry standard. They have a higher price but are more efficient. Most solar panel installers use panels made of this type of material.

Your Property - Each property and home has its own characteristics. Factors like trees, uneven land, or other impediments can make the installation more challenging. With the use of satellite images, solar installers these days can evaluate your home and include these considerations into the first cost estimate.

Labor Rates - Various wages are offered to employees by various companies, and these costs are transferred to the consumers. Businesses paying more to their employees often garner higher reviews for their services and customer service.

Permitting & Interconnection - Your final installation price will be affected by the permitting and utility interconnection fees, which vary by area. Experienced local installers will include these figures in your initial estimates to guarantee transparency.

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Who are the best solar installers in Rathdrum?

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

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

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.

Northwest Renewables

Spokane, WA(509) 732-9255

Services

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

Hunt Electric

Salt Lake City, UT(801) 975-8844

Services

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

Creative Energies

Salt Lake City, UT(801) 487-6489

Services

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

SunPower Corporation

San Jose, CA(800) 786-7693

Services

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

Fluent Solar

Lehi, UT(844) 220-7415

Services

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

Entegrity

Little Rock, AR(800) 700-1414

Services

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

Altenergy

Charlottesville, VA(434) 293-3763

Services

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

Infinity Energy

Rocklin, CA(888) 244-2513

Services

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

Empire Solar Group

Salt Lake City, UT(800) 467-4562

Services

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

Rathdrum, ID Solar Panel Cost FAQs

  • In November, 2024, the typical price per watt for solar panels in Rathdrum, ID is $3.41/W. The approximate cost of a 5 kW solar panel system in Rathdrum, ID, after deducting federal tax credits, is $11,935.
  • There are 7 rebates and incentives available in Idaho from a range of utility providers and government organizations. Additionally, almost everyone is entitled to the 30% federal income tax credit.
  • Cash payments yield the greatest savings, but many financing options for solar panels that are cost-effective are now available. Many installers have financing partners and will provide this information in your initial quotes.
  • Yes, the typical payback time for 5 kW solar panel systems in Rathdrum, ID is 9 years, and the expected electricity cost savings over 20 years is $15,161.
Matt Hope
Last Reviewed By: Matt Hope
Published: 2024-11-01