IdahoSolar Panel Costs & Savings
Idaho averages 4.7 hrs of peak sun per day with an average payback period of 12.5 years. Homeowners can save $22,400 over 20 years.
Peak Sun Hours
4.7 hrs
per day
6kW System Cost
$18,000
before incentives
Payback Period
12.5 yrs
average
20-Year Savings
$22,400
estimated
Solar Cost Breakdown in Idaho
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| 6kW System Cost ($3/W) | $18,000 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,400 |
| Net Cost | $12,600 |
Net Metering
Full Net Metering
Electricity Rate
11.15¢/kWh
Avg Monthly Bill
$107/mo
Solar Incentives in Idaho
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The federal ITC allows homeowners to deduct 30% of solar installation costs from federal taxes. Available for systems installed through 2032, stepping down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
Solar Potential by ZIP Code in Idaho
| ZIP | City | Sun Hours | Annual Savings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 83601 | Murphy | 5.0 hrs | $1,003 | 12.6 yrs |
| 83301 | Twin Falls | 4.9 hrs | $983 | 12.8 yrs |
| 83201 | Pocatello | 4.8 hrs | $963 | 13.1 yrs |
| 83702 | Boise | 4.8 hrs | $963 | 13.1 yrs |
| 83401 | Idaho Falls | 4.7 hrs | $943 | 13.4 yrs |
| 83101 | Kemmerer | 4.6 hrs | $923 | 13.7 yrs |
| 83001 | Jackson | 4.5 hrs | $903 | 14 yrs |
| 83501 | Lewiston | 4.3 hrs | $863 | 14.6 yrs |
| 83814 | Coeur d'Alene | 4.0 hrs | $803 | 15.7 yrs |
| 83843 | Moscow | 3.9 hrs | $783 | 16.1 yrs |
Compare With Other States
More Data for Idaho
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Idaho?
A typical 6kW solar system in Idaho costs approximately $18,000 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit ($5,400), the net cost is approximately $12,600.
How long does solar take to pay for itself in Idaho?
The average solar payback period in Idaho is 12.5 years, slower than the national average of 9.4 years. After payback, homeowners enjoy free electricity for the remaining system life.
Does Idaho have net metering?
Idaho has full net metering. Homeowners receive full retail rate credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid.
How much sun does Idaho get for solar?
Idaho averages 4.7 peak sun hours per day, which is 0.2 hours above the national average. A 6kW system produces approximately 10,293 kWh per year.
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Data verified March 2026 · Source: NREL, DSIRE, EIA