Solar Panels in Idaho2026 Cost Guide & Incentives
Average cost, state incentives, payback estimates, and how to find certified installers in Idaho.
$17,000–$28,000
Avg system cost
$11,900–$19,600
After 30% ITC
4.9 hrs/day
Peak sun hours
$0.108/kWh
Avg rate
Is Solar Worth It in Idaho?
Based on a home with a $150/month electric bill in Idaho
Est. system size
8.6 kW
Gross cost
$24,863
Federal tax credit
−$7,459
Net cost
$17,404
Year-1 savings
$1,800
20-year savings
$45,911
Estimated payback: 9.7 years — then 10 years of free electricity.
* Estimates assume $2.90/W installed, 92% solar offset, and 3% annual electricity rate inflation. Get an installer quote to confirm your actual savings.
Idaho Solar Incentives & Policies
Federal
Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30%
of total system cost — off your federal tax bill
Available through 2032
Idaho State
State Incentive
No state credit; net metering available
Additional Idaho Solar Policies
Net Metering: Available — excess energy credited to your bill
Property Tax Exemption: No exemption — solar adds to assessed value
Sales Tax Exemption: Sales tax applies to solar equipment purchase
Solar Installation Cost in Idaho by System Size
| System size | Gross cost | After 30% ITC | Year-1 savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $12,272,800 | $8,590,960 | $888,527/yr |
| 7 kW | $17,181,920 | $12,027,344 | $1,243,938/yr |
| 9 kW | $22,091,040 | $15,463,728 | $1,599,348/yr |
| 12 kW | $29,454,720 | $20,618,304 | $2,132,464/yr |
* Costs based on $2.90/W national average. Idaho installer pricing may vary ±15%.
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Frequently Asked Questions — Solar in Idaho
How much do solar panels cost in Idaho?
Solar installation in Idaho typically costs $17,000–$28,000 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit, most homeowners pay $11,900–$19,600 net.
Is solar worth it in Idaho?
Yes — Idaho homeowners benefit from 4.9 average peak sun hours per day. The 30% federal ITC combined with no state credit; net metering available make the financial case strong for most homeowners.
What state incentives are available for solar in Idaho?
No state credit; net metering available. On top of state incentives, all Idaho homeowners qualify for the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC).
How long is the payback period for solar in Idaho?
Based on Idaho's average electricity rate of $0.108/kWh and 4.9 peak sun hours, most homeowners see payback in 9.7–13 years. Systems then produce free electricity for 15–20+ more years.
Does Idaho have net metering?
Yes — Idaho has a net metering policy that credits your utility bill for excess electricity your system sends back to the grid. This significantly improves your ROI.