Idaho / Rathdrum
Is solar worth it in Rathdrum?
Avista Corp averages 11.6¢/kWh. With 4.0 peak sun hours a day, a typical 8.9 kW system makes ~10,404 kWh a year and saves about $1,209 in year one.
No federal tax credit is included. The 30% homeowner credit (IRS §25D) ended for systems installed after Dec 31, 2025. What changed in 2026 →
How Rathdrum compares
That is slower than the Idaho average of 14.0 years, mainly because Rathdrum's rate is below the state average of 11.7¢/kWh. Your own payback depends on your bill: enter your ZIP and monthly bill above for your number.
| Nearby city | Rate | Payback | 25-yr net |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hayden | 11.6¢ | 16.1 yrs | $19,609 |
| Post Falls | 11.6¢ | 16.1 yrs | $19,609 |
| Coeur d'Alene | 11.6¢ | 16.1 yrs | $19,609 |
| Sandpoint | 11.6¢ | 16.1 yrs | $19,609 |
| Moscow | 11.6¢ | 14.9 yrs | $21,814 |
| Lewiston | 11.6¢ | 14.9 yrs | $21,814 |
| Eagle | 11.8¢ | 13.2 yrs | $25,063 |
| Middleton | 11.8¢ | 13.2 yrs | $25,063 |
Questions
How long does solar take to pay off in Rathdrum, ID?
About 16.1 years for a typical 8.9 kW system at 11.6 cents/kWh, assuming $2.75/W installed, full net metering and 3% yearly rate increases, with no federal tax credit.
Is solar worth it in Rathdrum?
Only in some cases; payback is long. Our estimate is $1,209 saved in year one and $19,609 net over 25 years after paying for the system.
How much does a solar system cost in Rathdrum?
A 8.9 kW system sized for an average home (863 kWh/month) is about $24,475 before any local rebates, at $2.75 per watt. Real quotes vary by roof and installer.
Is there a federal solar tax credit in 2026?
Not for homeowners who buy their system. The 30% Residential Clean Energy Credit (IRS section 25D) does not apply to installations completed after December 31, 2025. State rebates, SRECs and utility incentives may still apply.
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