Best 5 Solar Companies in Boise City, ID

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Boise City

The cost and efficiency of solar panels often hinge on which company installed them. Here are some key items to remember while shopping for a solar installer.

Licensing and Training

Idaho's Division of Building Safety recently began issuing solar photovoltaic contracting licenses. If it's a solar thermal system you're after, your installer must be a licensed plumbing contractor. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private certifications. Two of the most recognized are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer certificates, awarded by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.

Cost of Solar Panels in Boise City

Your solar modules' type will affect how much power you can generate. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels offer you a budget panel with a traditional design, but at the cost of less power generation. Thin-film panels have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.

Additional accessories, such as battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, will increase your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar company provides these extras, so look for a company that sells them if it's crucial for you.

Generally speaking, it will cost about $17,300 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Boise City. This table displays more specific costs for different solar panel types and system components in your area.

Financing Solar Energy in Boise City

There are numerous ways to pay for new solar panels, and the right one will reduce your expenses. A few of the most common options include power purchase agreements (PPAs), cash payments, loans, and leases. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most economical choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the runner-up option. As with a home or auto loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for money-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases let you rent your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and don't grant you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Ask each installer you're evaluating about the payment plans it offers. A team member can help you determine the most suitable option for your pocketbook.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Boise City.

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy devices until the year 2032. Local and state governments and utility companies might also offer rebates, discounts, and unique financing solutions that could save you more.