Best 3 Solar Companies in Idaho Falls, ID

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Idaho Falls

The purchase price and performance of solar panels often depend on the provider that mounted them. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.

Licensing and Training

Idaho's Division of Building Safety recently began issuing solar photovoltaic contracting licenses. If you're installing a solar thermal system, your installer must be a licensed plumbing contractor. Look for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar industry's most credible trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.

Cost of Solar Panels in Idaho Falls

The type of solar panels you choose decides how much electricity you can produce. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't the best for large residential installations, but they are excellent accessories for non-traditional roofs.

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

Most Idaho Falls homeowners choose solar systems designed for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $17,300 to set up, considering both materials and labor. You can find more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Idaho Falls

Choosing the optimal financing solution will influence your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include loans, power purchase agreements, cash payments, and leases. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most cost-effective choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the second most effective 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 involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) permits you to pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the solar system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Ask each installer you're vetting about the payment options it offers. A team member can help you determine the most suitable option for your financial situation.

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

The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal tax credit for solar panels on your new solar panels, so long as you purchase it before 2032. Municipal authorities and utilities might also offer their own financing programs, rebates, and incentives that could save you more money.