Smart solar energy solutions in the City of Trees

The state of solar in Boise

With almost 3,000 hours of sunshine annually, you can see why solar energy has a bright outlook in Boise. Projections indicate that 86% of buildings in the city are solar-viable.^*Google, Project Sunroof data explorer (November 2018) However, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), the state only gets 3.49% of its electricity from solar energy.^*SEIA, https://www.seia.org/state-solar-policy/idaho-solar, Q1 2021 It stands to reason that Boise has incredible room for growth in solar energy.

How much solar energy does Boise produce?

Boise has received the honor of a Gold Designation from SolSmart for the city's dedication to clean energy initiatives. In the fiscal year 2020 alone, the city saw a 14% increase in solar permits. Municipal buildings are also changing over to solar, according to the city's vision plan.^*City of Boise, https://www.cityofboise.org/departments/planning-and-development-service..., 2020

What are the advantages of going solar in Boise?

On July 31, 2020, the mayor of Boise set a goal for 100% clean energy by 2035.^*City of Boise SolSmart Statement, https://www.cityofboise.org/media/10390/updated-city-of-boise-solsmart-s..., July 2020 With this target in mind, the city has expedited the review process to help homeowners proceed with solar installations efficiently. It also offers reduced permit fees to make converting to solar more affordable up front.

In addition, Idaho offers low-interest loans for homeowners who want to upgrade to solar systems through The Idaho Governor's Office of Energy Resources (OER) State Energy Loan Program.

The state has a Residential Alternative Tax Deduction as well. This incentive allows homeowners to deduct 40% of installation costs from their personal income taxes, plus an additional deduction of 20% each year for the three years following installation.^*Tax credits and incentives are subject to change. Visit dsireusa.org for detailed solar policy information.

With these kinds of incentives, it makes sense that so many homeowners in Boise are ready to make the switch.

How much does solar cost in Boise?

The cost of a home solar system can vary, even in the same city, due to a range of factors. These include:

• Choice of solar panels

• Labor costs

• Power inverter

• Household electrical demand

To help you understand the price of going solar in your area, we've analyzed SunPower price quotes as well as quotes gathered by third-party sources for thousands of homeowners across the country.

In Idaho, we found that the cost of owning a 5 kW solar system ranges from $12,900 to $15,050, or in other words, from $2.58 to $3.01 per watt. And that's before considering the benefits of any available tax credits or incentives.

When planning a home solar system installation, an accurate rooftop assessment can also be beneficial to decide the scope of your project and budget for costs. This inspection centers on the square footage of solar system space, direction orientation, and roof pitch to determine the efficiency and output.

What's the best way to go solar in Boise?

Before you make any decisions, talk to a solar company you can trust. Before signing a contract, you should get a custom system design—and savings quote—that meets your current energy needs. But you’ll also want to make sure you’re getting top-quality parts that can stand up to the elements, whithout detracting from your home's curb appeal.

As the leader for home solar installations in Boise, SunPower makes it easy to get started. Simply request a free solar consultation today and we'll follow up with a quick call to schedule a time. You can also call us directly at 1-385-489-5552.