Minnesota / Bemidji
Is solar worth it in Bemidji?
Otter Tail Power Co averages 11.3¢/kWh. With 4.0 peak sun hours a day, a typical 8.9 kW system makes ~10,404 kWh a year and saves about $1,179 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 Bemidji compares
That is slower than the Minnesota average of 12.2 years, mainly because Bemidji's rate is below the state average of 15.5¢/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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit Lakes | 11.3¢ | 15.9 yrs | $19,368 |
| Grand Rapids | 15.7¢ | 12.4 yrs | $35,108 |
| Brainerd | 15.7¢ | 12.2 yrs | $35,809 |
| Hibbing | 15.7¢ | 12.9 yrs | $34,089 |
| Moorhead | 11.4¢ | 15.4 yrs | $20,178 |
| Fergus Falls | 11.3¢ | 15.9 yrs | $19,368 |
| Alexandria | 11.3¢ | 15.9 yrs | $19,368 |
| Cloquet | 15.7¢ | 12.4 yrs | $35,108 |
Questions
How long does solar take to pay off in Bemidji, MN?
About 16.4 years for a typical 8.9 kW system at 11.3 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 Bemidji?
Only in some cases; payback is long. Our estimate is $1,179 saved in year one and $18,509 net over 25 years after paying for the system.
How much does a solar system cost in Bemidji?
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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