Best 5 Solar Companies in Meridian, ID

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Meridian

The cost and efficiency of solar panels often rely on the provider that mounted them. Make your choice based on the following key factors.

Licensing and Training

Idaho's Division of Building Safety recently began issuing solar PV contracting licenses. If it's a solar thermal system you're after, your installer must be a licensed plumbing contractor. Solar companies can also earn accreditations from standards organizations and trade groups. The most prestigious ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Meridian

The type of solar panels you purchase decides how much energy you can generate. 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.

If you want to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in inclement weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By choosing the right components, you can make your panel array more effective and user-friendly. Not every solar provider offers these extras, so look for a company that sells them if it's essential for you.

Generally speaking, it will cost about $17,300 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Meridian. This table shows more specific pricing information for different solar panel types and system components in your area.

Financing Solar Energy in Meridian

There are many ways to pay for a new solar system, and the right one will lower your costs. A few of the most common options include leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), loans, and cash payments. 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 car or home loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for cost-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in specific circumstances. Ask each business you're considering about the financing options it offers. A consultant can help you determine the best option for your pocketbook.

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

A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to new home solar systems purchased through 2032. Extra incentives may be available through city and state governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.