Summary of Idaho solar incentives 2021
The Idaho Public Service Commission UNANIMOUSLY rejected Idaho Power’s late-2019 attempts to destroy net metering, whew! However, on December 20, 2020, the PUC also declined to allow customers with new solar installations to receive the old compensation rates for their excess solar energy. If you install solar in Idaho now, you may end up getting lower bill credits for energy your solar installation makes that you don't use yourself.
We're expecting to see the PUC come to a decision about net metering sometime in 2021, and we'll update this page at that time. Read on to learn all you need to know about going solar in Idaho - solar panel policy, incentives, and savings!
On this page, you can:
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Learn what solar incentives are available to Idaho homeowners
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See what Idaho solar incentives you qualify for based on your utility company and city
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Find out how much these incentives and/or Idaho solar tax credits will reduce your cost to go solar and add batteries
Federal solar investment tax credit
The federal solar investment tax credit will have the biggest impact on the cost you will face to go solar in Idaho
This perk is commonly known as the ITC, short for “Investment Tax Credit”. If you install your photovoltaic system in 2020, the federal tax credit is 26% of the cost of your solar panel system. This is 26% off the entire cost of the system including equipment, labor and permitting.
Example: If your solar energy system costs $20,000, your federal solar tax credit would be $20,000 x 26% = $5,200.
The federal tax credit falls to 22% at the end of 2022.
Net energy metering in Idaho
With net metering in some states, you get full retail rate credit for the amount of electricity you send back into the grid with your solar panels.
Net Metering requires your utility to monitor how much energy your solar power system produces and how much energy you actually consume, and make sure you get credit for any surplus. It’s an essential part of strong solar policy, because it’s a big money saver for you. Idaho currently has no law requiring utilities to offer net metering, or governing interconnection (getting on the grid to get net-metered), and again, people who install solar panels on their homes now will not be eligible for long-term net metering under the state's pre-2020 rules.
For now, all three of the state’s three investor-owned utilities — Avista Utilities, Idaho Power and Rocky Mountain Power — have independently decided to offer net metering programs until the PUC comes to a decision. The framework of all three programs is similar. All of the programs limit individual system size, but those limits won't affect homeowners much.
All three programs also handle residential net metering the same way: all surplus energy produced is applied as a credit to your next month’s bill at the full retail rate. So for every kW extra you produce one month, you pay for one less kW the next. Avista specifies (sadly) that surplus credit reverts back to the utility without compensation after 12 months. Idaho Power and Rocky Mountain Power do not specifically address “rollover” limits or other annual surplus accounting policies.
Idaho Power and Rocky Mountain Power have been in communication with the state public utilities commission on a plea to pay much less than retail rates in the future, though the PUC has denied to hear their requests for the near term. As it stands, now may be a good time to lock in your net metering by going solar so the rates don’t diminish.
Idaho solar rebates
The state of Idaho doesn't offer any cash rebates for going solar, or really much of any other kind of incentive, either. We'd like to see the state get into helping homeowners go solar, but honestly, we're not holding our breath. Most folks in Idaho prefer the government to stand aside, and that's going to have to do.
There is one smart incentive for Idaho homeowners who go solar, and it's going to lower your taxes. Very on-brand, Idaho.
State tax deduction
Instead of a more straightforward tax credit for installing solar, Idaho decided to enact a 100% tax deduction. So, when you go solar, you can take 40% of your installation cost as a deduction in the first year, up to a maximum of $5,000. Then, for the next 3 years, you can deduct 20% of the cost each year from your state income for tax purposes.
For example, an average sized 6kW system installed for $18,000, you can deduct $7,200 from your state income for reporting purposes in the first year, and $3,600 for the next three years.
At current Idaho personal income tax rates, you can expect this deduction to be worth about $1,100 total over the four year period.
Cost of solar panels in your part of Idaho after all applicable solar incentives
Showing data for:
Prices based on a 10.3kW system, after 26% federal tax credit
Solar prices near you
Payback period
8.2-10 years
Net profit (savings less system cost)
$42,741-$52,239
Average size system installed in ID in 2021
10.3kW
Solar panel cost calculator
Best 10 solar companies in Idaho
19 solar companies in Idaho provide pricing on SolarReviews. Here are the best rated companies near you.
4.64 1,450 Reviews
Latest review
Goin Solar, 1 day ago
When the first crew arrived to do the install on August 9, they climbed on the roof and discovered that my shingles, which had been inspected by BRS, were not suitable for solar and needed to be replaced. By the time i got bids, selected a contractor, while juggling a concrete pour which limited access to the roof, the actual install was completed yesterday, September 20. Everything with BRS had gone smoothly from the initial contact, sales pitch (which included followup questions from me to the rep), permitting, facilitating the interaction with PacificCorp was pleasant, as was the interaction with the initial install crew and the crew that did the actual install. I briefly looked at another review where the same issue with the inspection was mentioned; a lot of good work by their people is not being rewarded because of the issue with their inspection process and until something is done about that, I would recommend BRS on new construction, but not on an existing home.
Read more
Latest review
Goin Solar, 1 day ago
When the first crew arrived to do the install on August 9, they climbed on the roof and discovered that my shingles, which had been inspected by BRS, were not suitable for solar and needed to be replaced. By the time i got bids, selected a contractor, while juggling a concrete pour which limited access to the roof, the actual install was completed yesterday, September 20. Everything with BRS had gone smoothly from the initial contact, sales pitch (which included followup questions from me to the rep), permitting, facilitating the interaction with PacificCorp was pleasant, as was the interaction with the initial install crew and the crew that did the actual install. I briefly looked at another review where the same issue with the inspection was mentioned; a lot of good work by their people is not being rewarded because of the issue with their inspection process and until something is done about that, I would recommend BRS on new construction, but not on an existing home.
4.62 28 Reviews
Latest review
Excellent company to work with!, 2 weeks ago
We consulted with four solar companies before choosing to work with EGT. Rob was knowledgeable and thorough as he presented EGT’s proposed layout. We had many questions, but Rob was extremely patient and empathetic with our concerns. Once we had made our decision, every aspect of the project went smoothly - and surprisingly quickly, including just two days for complete installation. Megan in the office was efficient, responsive and courteous and made us feel that we were a high priority for them! We await Idaho Power’s visit to inspect so that we can be solar.
Read more
Latest review
Excellent company to work with!, 2 weeks ago
We consulted with four solar companies before choosing to work with EGT. Rob was knowledgeable and thorough as he presented EGT’s proposed layout. We had many questions, but Rob was extremely patient and empathetic with our concerns. Once we had made our decision, every aspect of the project went smoothly - and surprisingly quickly, including just two days for complete installation. Megan in the office was efficient, responsive and courteous and made us feel that we were a high priority for them! We await Idaho Power’s visit to inspect so that we can be solar.
4.58 177 Reviews
Latest review
Randall, over 1 month
I evaluated dozens of solar companies online, and narrowed it down to three for proposals. IWS was the most thorough and transparent of the companies I worked with. They reviewed the property, electrical, and sent pics to engineering before providing a quote which gave me confidence that the quote would be accurate. The install team was friendly and professional and did an excellent job on cleanup. I had my roofer inspect the mounts and he was impressed to the point he recommended them to another one of his customers. The calculations provided in the quoting process appear to be spot on. My installation has been running for about 2 months now.
Read more
Latest review
Randall, over 1 month
I evaluated dozens of solar companies online, and narrowed it down to three for proposals. IWS was the most thorough and transparent of the companies I worked with. They reviewed the property, electrical, and sent pics to engineering before providing a quote which gave me confidence that the quote would be accurate. The install team was friendly and professional and did an excellent job on cleanup. I had my roofer inspect the mounts and he was impressed to the point he recommended them to another one of his customers. The calculations provided in the quoting process appear to be spot on. My installation has been running for about 2 months now.
4.47 20 Reviews
Latest review
Anonymous, over 1 month
We had a project to construct a lean-to adjacent to our barn and wanted to cover it in solar panels. The Solar Stone gave us a detailed estimate, power generation prediction and explained the entire Washington State incentive variations and application process which helped us become more informed.<br /><br />The entire construction process went smoothly despite some weather conditions mid-December and we were able to get the project signed off before the New Year. They were communicative throughout the project and it was a pleasure working with them.<br /><br />Solar projects should be installed by skilled professionals who know what they're doing when it comes to installing expensive equipment you're wanting to use for 25+ years. The Solar Stone are those professionals and I'd recommend them to anyone.
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Latest review
Anonymous, over 1 month
We had a project to construct a lean-to adjacent to our barn and wanted to cover it in solar panels. The Solar Stone gave us a detailed estimate, power generation prediction and explained the entire Washington State incentive variations and application process which helped us become more informed.<br /><br />The entire construction process went smoothly despite some weather conditions mid-December and we were able to get the project signed off before the New Year. They were communicative throughout the project and it was a pleasure working with them.<br /><br />Solar projects should be installed by skilled professionals who know what they're doing when it comes to installing expensive equipment you're wanting to use for 25+ years. The Solar Stone are those professionals and I'd recommend them to anyone.
4.46 11 Reviews
Latest review
Drewetts, 2 weeks ago
We called Pell to get a second estimate on solar and we're so happy we did. Their proposal used the same or better equipment, more panels placed in better arrays, and was significantly lower cost; but that is not the only reason they were awesome. Jeremiah, our rep, did a great job explaining everything and keeping us updated as we waited on permits, HOA, installation, inspections, and troubleshooting. It was so nice to have a company/contractor return calls and texts and communicate regularly. The crew that did the installation was well mannered, considerate, and friendly. When we hit a snag with Idaho Power, Pell's electrician came out the next day to fix it. We have recommended Pell to all our friends and neighbors and everyone else that showed interest (and probably a few people that weren't interested).
Read more
Latest review
Drewetts, 2 weeks ago
We called Pell to get a second estimate on solar and we're so happy we did. Their proposal used the same or better equipment, more panels placed in better arrays, and was significantly lower cost; but that is not the only reason they were awesome. Jeremiah, our rep, did a great job explaining everything and keeping us updated as we waited on permits, HOA, installation, inspections, and troubleshooting. It was so nice to have a company/contractor return calls and texts and communicate regularly. The crew that did the installation was well mannered, considerate, and friendly. When we hit a snag with Idaho Power, Pell's electrician came out the next day to fix it. We have recommended Pell to all our friends and neighbors and everyone else that showed interest (and probably a few people that weren't interested).
4.42 8 Reviews
Latest review
Anonymous, over 1 month
We spent quite a bit of time researching different solar companies before deciding on who to go with. Genuine Solar provided the best deal by far. The salesmen were great to work with and responded to questions in a timely manner throughout the entire process.
Read more
Latest review
Anonymous, over 1 month
We spent quite a bit of time researching different solar companies before deciding on who to go with. Genuine Solar provided the best deal by far. The salesmen were great to work with and responded to questions in a timely manner throughout the entire process.
4.17 6 Reviews
Latest review
Larry W Wilson - Retired, over 1 month
We are very impressed with the proposal, engineering, layout, site visit, and final installation. We monitor the results daily and we are right on schedule. Of course no one has control of the weather but it is on track as we expected. We had six craftsman on our projects at different times. All were very professional in all aspects of installation. Even in 94 degree heat they worked extremely hard and continuously. I am retired from the electrical industry and held several positions in management of Fortune 100 companies including owning a partnership in an electrical transformer manufacturing company. This crew was experts in their field, never thought of cutting corners, installed with quality products, and installed properly in accordance with NEC. I can not say enough about the entire installation and highly recommend AltEnergy Staunton for those considering a solar project. You will not be disappointed!
Read more
Latest review
Larry W Wilson - Retired, over 1 month
We are very impressed with the proposal, engineering, layout, site visit, and final installation. We monitor the results daily and we are right on schedule. Of course no one has control of the weather but it is on track as we expected. We had six craftsman on our projects at different times. All were very professional in all aspects of installation. Even in 94 degree heat they worked extremely hard and continuously. I am retired from the electrical industry and held several positions in management of Fortune 100 companies including owning a partnership in an electrical transformer manufacturing company. This crew was experts in their field, never thought of cutting corners, installed with quality products, and installed properly in accordance with NEC. I can not say enough about the entire installation and highly recommend AltEnergy Staunton for those considering a solar project. You will not be disappointed!
4.04 57 Reviews
Latest review
Jason H, 1 week ago
I spent 30k with Moxie Solar for a solar array that would eliminate my electrical bill other than the connect fee of 15 per month to our electrical provider. They designed the system and told me this system was to be 110 percent of my electrical usage and that I would not have an electrical bill in fact during the summer my electric company would be paying me a few dollars because I will over produce. Last months bill was 80.00 I reached out to the project manager and she didn't know where the salesman got his numbers and that something was wrong after that conversation I have reached out to the company several times and have not heard a thing for over 4 weeks. I have read multiply reviews after this know I wish I would have gone with someone else. tried posting a negative review on their FB page the CEO deleted it and banned me so they are most definitely getting the messages
Read more
Latest review
Jason H, 1 week ago
I spent 30k with Moxie Solar for a solar array that would eliminate my electrical bill other than the connect fee of 15 per month to our electrical provider. They designed the system and told me this system was to be 110 percent of my electrical usage and that I would not have an electrical bill in fact during the summer my electric company would be paying me a few dollars because I will over produce. Last months bill was 80.00 I reached out to the project manager and she didn't know where the salesman got his numbers and that something was wrong after that conversation I have reached out to the company several times and have not heard a thing for over 4 weeks. I have read multiply reviews after this know I wish I would have gone with someone else. tried posting a negative review on their FB page the CEO deleted it and banned me so they are most definitely getting the messages
3.98 6 Reviews
Latest review
Sunshine, over 1 month
We've only just begun! Since speaking with a previous customer, we've gone from bid to fully functional in about a month. These folks even have an energy efficiency team to help us go the next step.
Read more
Latest review
Sunshine, over 1 month
We've only just begun! Since speaking with a previous customer, we've gone from bid to fully functional in about a month. These folks even have an energy efficiency team to help us go the next step.
3.93 4 Reviews
Latest review
Jim, over 1 month
I solicited bids from 3 different companies. I was most impressed with Gietzen . They did quality work as we agreed upon at a fair price. I am very pleased and would recommend them to anyone.
Read more
Latest review
Jim, over 1 month
I solicited bids from 3 different companies. I was most impressed with Gietzen . They did quality work as we agreed upon at a fair price. I am very pleased and would recommend them to anyone.
Useful links
Idaho State Energy Loan Program - Low interest Loans for Renewable Energy projects ranging from $1,00 to $15,000 for single family loans
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