Josephine NesbitContributing Writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Apr. 22, 2024
Editorial note: Homefront (defined in the Disclosure below) may earn a commission from affiliate partner links featured on our site. This commission does not influence our editors' opinions or evaluations
Read MoreJoin more than 1,246 people who have received a quote in the last 30 days.
Homefront Local uses a unique algorithm to score solar companies based on important factors like user reviews and how popular they are in your area.
To get a high-quality solar panel installation in Caldwell, Idaho, you'll need a properly certified, skilled and experienced solar installer. We've assembled a list of the top solar companies in Caldwell to help you select the right one.
Prior to selecting an installer, request referrals from others, vet potential companies and collect multiple quotes to identify the right company for your needs. You can choose a local solar company in Caldwell or use a well-known national brand.
Even though solar panels need a large initial investment, you can cut your energy expenses in the long term by making the switch. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), adopting solar energy enables Caldwell homeowners to save a yearly average of around $1,200.
Solar companies do not all offer the same services and products. You should assess different companies and ask for quotes before booking your solar panel installation.
Search for Caldwell solar companies with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews and comparable customer review platforms. The company should also have a respectable rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Looking at previous customer testimonials can give insight into other homeowners' experiences working with the solar company. Frequent poor reviews are worth noting as a possible red flag.
Places with varying amounts of sun, including those with higher levels of rain or cloud coverage like Caldwell, can still take advantage of solar energy. Here are the top reasons for considering solar energy:
Based on our survey carried out in October 2023, the average national cost of solar panel installation is $11,743.
The price of installing solar panels differs based on several elements, including your location, sunlight exposure, roof direction, shading, system dimensions and labor. Be ready to pay extra if you choose any extras like batteries, solar trackers or animal guards.
Per statistics from the EIA, NASA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the average expense to install solar panels in Caldwell is $17,737.
Installing solar panels means substantial spending upfront, but you can make those costs back through big reductions in your energy bills down the line.
In Caldwell, you can anticipate saving money once you've fully switched to solar. But it takes time to recover the upfront costs, and factors like precipitation and tree coverage impact how soon you'll get a return on your solar investment.
Transitioning to solar not only saves money but also reduces your carbon emissions and environmental footprint. Our calculations using NASA and EPA data show the projected CO2 emission reductions attainable by going solar.
Experts Ready to Help
Homeowners in Caldwell can be eligible for several solar incentives. Some are available statewide for all Idaho residents, and others are based on your city, utility company and municipality.
Here are solar incentives available to Idaho residents, according to DSIRE.
Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
---|---|
Loan Program Low-Interest Energy Loan Programs | Residential: $15,000 All others: $100,000 |
Rebate Program Idaho Falls Power - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Air Source Heat Pump Conversion: Contact IFP Air Source Heat Pump Conversion with Duct Sealing: contact IFP Ground Source Heat Pump: $2,700-$3,150 Ductless Heat Pump: $720 Water Heater: $270-$450 Insulation (Attic, Floor, Wall): Varies, see program website for details Windows: Varies, see program website for details |
Personal Tax Deduction Residential Alternative Energy Tax Deduction | 40% in the first year; 20% per year for next three years |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels. |
When selecting a solar installation expert, first review these key considerations.
The right solar system size for you relies on how much energy your household needs, as well as the system's energy production ratio. Larger homes often need larger solar panel systems. If the system isn't expansive enough, it could struggle to generate sufficient electricity to power your whole home.
Required permits and local or state laws could influence your solar project. Be sure to apply for necessary permits through your local building department and plan an inspection.
Not all homes receive the same amount of sunlight. Local tree coverage, precipitation and severe weather can affect sunlight access. If your property doesn’t get adequate sunlight, then you may need more panels with higher wattage.
For extra power storage, a lot of panel systems come equipped with a solar battery. This feature is invaluable during storms and helps to mitigate power loss. However, opting for battery storage could increase overall installation expenses.
You can select from several types of solar panels, each differing in life expectancy, efficiency and design. These factors not only affect the price, but also how quickly you’ll need to replace panels and the amount of space the panels take up on your roof.
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics. Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Go back to top
Our editors may use AI as an input tool to tailor information in local markets. All content goes through a rigorous research and review process led by our team of writers and editors.
Our guide explores the best solar companies available. Trinity and Elevation top our list for their services, and Sunrun rounds it out with its leasing options.
solarApr. 23
While you can save money installing DIY solar panels, it’s not a simple home improvement project and does require electrical know-how as well as roofing skills.
solarMar. 27
Sleek and innovative, solar shingles are gaining rapid popularity. They cost more than traditional solar panels but are also more aesthetically pleasing.
solarMar. 25
Solar panels last about 25 years, according to our expert. Our guide explains how to get the most out of your system’s life.
solarMar. 27