Idaho

Here are the benefits of going solar and the top utilities net metering policies in Idaho:

Benefits of Going Solar in Idaho:

1. Reduce or eliminate electricity bills: By installing a solar panel system, you can generate your own electricity, reducing or even eliminating your dependence on traditional utility companies.

2. Increase property value: A solar panel system can increase your home's value, making it a more attractive investment for potential buyers.

3. Environmental impact: Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy, reducing your carbon footprint and helping to combat climate change.

4. Energy independence: With a solar panel system, you can generate your own electricity, reducing your dependence on the grid and increasing your energy independence.

Net Metering Policies in Idaho: Idaho has a net metering policy that allows homeowners and businesses to receive credits for excess energy they generate and send back to the grid, which can be used to offset future electricity bills. The policy applies to all investor-owned utilities in Idaho, including Avista Utilities, Idaho Power, Rocky Mountain Power, and PacifiCorp. Here are some details about the net metering policy in Idaho:

1. Eligible systems: Residential and commercial solar energy systems up to 100 kilowatts (kW) are eligible for net metering.

2. Roll-over credits: Any excess energy generated and sent back to the grid is credited to the customer's account, and can be carried over to future billing periods.

3. Excess credits: At the end of the annual billing period, any remaining credits are reimbursed to the customer at the utility's avoided cost rate.

Overall, going solar in Idaho can offer numerous benefits, including energy independence, environmental sustainability, and potential cost savings on your electricity bills. The state's net metering policy allows homeowners and businesses to take advantage of the excess energy they generate, making solar even more affordable and accessible.

Here are some rebates and incentives available in Idaho to go solar:

1. Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC): The ITC is a federal tax credit that allows homeowners and businesses to deduct a percentage of their solar panel system's cost from their federal taxes.30%

2. Idaho State Tax Credit: Idaho offers a state tax credit of up to $1,320 for homeowners who install a solar panel system. The credit is calculated as 40% of the cost of the system, up to a maximum of $5,000.

3. Net Metering: As mentioned earlier, Idaho has a net metering policy that allows homeowners and businesses to receive credits for excess energy they generate and send back to the grid, which can be used to offset future electricity bills.

4. Sales Tax Exemption: Solar panel systems are exempt from sales tax in Idaho.

5. Property Tax Exemption: Solar panel systems are also exempt from property tax in Idaho.

6. USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP): The REAP provides grants and loans to farmers, ranchers, and rural small businesses to install renewable energy systems, including solar panel systems.

These rebates and incentives can significantly reduce the cost of installing a solar panel system, making solar energy more accessible and affordable for homeowners and businesses in Idaho.