Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sandpoint, ID (2025 Update)
- Sandpoint Solar Installation Cost: $21,309
- 25-Year Savings: $16,714
- Payback Period: 16.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sandpoint
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Sandpoint.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Sandpoint, the typical cost of solar panels is 3 per watt.To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Sandpoint, most homeowners require a 8.8-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $21,309, or $30,472 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
These figures are only averages, and the cost of going solar for you will most likely vary based on factors unique to your home and what company you want to go with.Many homeowners find installing a solar system is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Sandpoint can save about $15,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
To receive a free estimate from a vetted solar installer in Sandpoint, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Sandpoint
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-20,172 |
| 3 years | $-17,898 |
| 5 years | $-15,625 |
| 7 years | $-13,351 |
| 9 years | $-11,077 |
| 11 years | $-8,803 |
| 13 years | $-6,529 |
| 15 years | $-4,255 |
| 17 years | $-1,982 |
| 19 years | $292 |
| 21 years | $2,566 |
| 23 years | $4,840 |
| 25 years | $7,114 |
Top Solar Installers in Sandpoint
Installing solar panels yourself can be a time-consuming project, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Solar warranties and repairs are usually included in the cost of installation when you opt for a solar contractor too, which can save you more money over time.
Working with a vetted solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
See all of the solar companies in Sandpoint
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sandpoint
For many Sandpoint homeowners, the decision to install solar panels comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Sandpoint, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,460.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Generally, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you’re looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is difficult, solar loans are a popular choice because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of 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 more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Sandpoint is the company you get to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets.Additionally, some companies in Sandpoint have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
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 | $7,205 | 16.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.53 | $19,764 | $9,994 | 16.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.46 | $24,220 | $12,976 | 16.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.39 | $28,483 | $16,153 | 16.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.32 | $32,552 | $19,523 | 15.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.25 | $36,427 | $23,087 | 15.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.18 | $40,108 | $26,845 | 15.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.11 | $43,596 | $30,797 | 14.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installation company you choose greatly influences your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and models of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: When looking through your solar installer’s contract, ask questions about any terms you’re not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
EcoWatch's Sandpoint, ID Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Sandpoint?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,300 for a 5-kW system and $34,600 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for a majority of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.