Solar Panel Cost Guide in Post Falls, ID (2024 Update)
- Post Falls Solar Installation Cost: $21,261
- 25-Year Savings: $13,742
- Payback Period: 17.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Post Falls
Here’s how much it might cost to install solar panels in Post Falls.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Post Falls is 3 per watt.The average Post Falls homeowner needs a 8.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $21,261 with the federal tax credit, or $30,403 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and how much solar costs for you may differ based on your energy needs and what company you choose to go with.Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Post Falls can save about $14,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Post Falls
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-20,124 |
| 3 years | $-17,850 |
| 5 years | $-15,576 |
| 7 years | $-13,302 |
| 9 years | $-11,029 |
| 11 years | $-8,755 |
| 13 years | $-6,481 |
| 15 years | $-4,207 |
| 17 years | $-1,933 |
| 19 years | $341 |
| 21 years | $2,614 |
| 23 years | $4,888 |
| 25 years | $7,162 |
Top Solar Installers in Post Falls
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since trying to install solar panels yourself can be time-consuming. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Outstanding Local Installer
ES Solar
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Lifetime workmanship warranty
- Outstanding customer service
- No leases or PPAs
- Energy audits only available 12 months after installation
Solar Veteran
Creative Energies
- Certified B Corp
- Outstanding customer service
- Many years of experience
- Multitude of products and services
- No leases or PPAs
- Slightly expensive
See all of the solar companies in Post Falls
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Post Falls
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Post Falls: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in Post Falls, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home’s energy usage, which you can determine by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $3,460 for each additional kilowatt you need.The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your power bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Post Falls average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Post Falls homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Post Falls, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to access to greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.60 | $15,113 | $5,199 | 18.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.53 | $19,764 | $7,320 | 18.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.46 | $24,220 | $9,634 | 17.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.39 | $28,483 | $12,142 | 17.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.32 | $32,552 | $14,844 | 17.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.25 | $36,427 | $17,739 | 16.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.18 | $40,108 | $20,829 | 16.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.11 | $43,596 | $24,112 | 16.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Post Falls, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s crucial to keep an open line of communication with your solar installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you hire.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Outstanding Local Installer
ES Solar
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Lifetime workmanship warranty
- Outstanding customer service
- No leases or PPAs
- Energy audits only available 12 months after installation
Solar Veteran
Creative Energies
- Certified B Corp
- Outstanding customer service
- Many years of experience
- Multitude of products and services
- No leases or PPAs
- Slightly expensive
EcoWatch's Post Falls, ID Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Post Falls?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,300 for a 5-kW system and $34,600 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Post Falls?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Post Falls. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my power bills?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Post Falls, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Post Falls?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.