Blue Raven Solar

- Max. panel efficiency
- Varies
- Panel warranty
- 25 years
- Payment options
- Cash, loan, lease
- Year founded
- 2014
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Based on local customer satisfaction ratings, Blue Raven Solar is the best professional solar panel installer in Idaho. ShopSolar is our pick for do-it-yourself projects.
The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties, availability and other factors to select the top picks for this guide. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear. Read the full methodology for all the details on how we make solar company recommendations.
| Company | Customer rating | Our pick for | Max. panel efficiency | Panel warranty | Payment options | In-house financing | Year founded | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Blue Raven Solar | Get Started | 3.3
319 reviews
319 reviews
| Professional installation | Varies | 25 years | Cash, loan, lease, PPA | Yes | 2014 |
![]() ShopSolar | Learn More | 4.6
219 reviews
219 reviews
| DIY projects | Varies | Varies | Cash, loan | No | 2018 |
Blue Raven Solar has strong customer reviews, reliable equipment and broad availability across Idaho. ShopSolar is an online retailer, not a local service provider, that sells a range of solar equipment.


Jump into our guides and start learning
Our team has talked to more than 100,000 verified solar customers, including several in Idaho. With the right solar partner, you’ll be on your way to reaping the many short- and long-term rewards of switching to solar energy. Here’s what to expect and what to watch for.
Residential solar panel installations cost anywhere from $9,395 to $28,320 in Idaho. The size of your solar panel system is the biggest factor in total costs.
Jump to insightSolar panels are a long-term investment — most systems last 25 years or more. That means choosing the right installer is just as important as choosing the right equipment.
Jump to insightThere are a few ways to pay for a residential solar energy system in Idaho.
Jump to insightBased on our research, the best solar energy companies share a few traits: strong customer reviews, high-quality equipment and reliable warranties. Here are the key steps to finding the right fit.
Look at reviews on platforms like ConsumerAffairs, Better Business Bureau and solar-specific forums to see real customer experiences. Watch out for these red flags:
Local experience matters, too. Look for companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in Idaho. It makes it easier to navigate regulations, permits and available financial incentives.
Confirm a contractor’s license through Idaho’s Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses. Your installer should also have:
Get at least three solar quotes to compare prices, equipment, warranties and services. Be cautious of unusually low bids — they may signal poor-quality panels, hidden fees or weak warranty coverage.
Also, ask whether they offer extras you might want, like battery storage, an EV charger or critter guards to protect your panels.
Idaho’s attorney general has issued additional tips for homeowners going solar: Beware of misleading claims about partnerships with the state or electric providers, guaranteed rebates, zero future power bills, energy shortages and power during outages without a battery.
Read the fine print
The contract should be easy to understand. If anything about payment schedules, warranties, monitoring services or system maintenance doesn’t make sense — ask for clarification.
Average solar panel costs in Idaho typically range between $9,395 and $28,320.
That price range doesn’t include the cost of a solar storage battery, which is sometimes as expensive as the panels. Solar batteries are a must if you want real energy independence, especially if you want to go off-grid.
Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Idaho, the average cost per watt is $2.83.
Average solar panel costs by system size in Idaho
| 5 kW | 6 kW | 7 kW | 8 kW | 9 kW | 10 kW | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Before federal tax credit | $14,160 | $16,992 | $19,824 | $22,656 | $25,488 | $28,320 |
Getting solar panels is like buying a car. You could pay cash, but many people finance their system through a solar loan.
Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 over 25 years.
Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 19.12 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).
Alternatively, leasing solar equipment is an attractive option for people who don’t want to get a loan or be responsible for maintaining a system.
» SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy
The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is set to expire at the end of the year, much earlier than previously scheduled. This means you have until Dec. 31, 2025, to install and pay for a system to qualify for the 30% credit.
The ITC expired at the end of 2025.
On the bright side, you might be eligible for additional solar incentives in Idaho, such as state tax breaks, rebates and low-interest loan programs.
Net metering is another potential incentive. It lets you send excess energy your system produces to the local power grid in exchange for credits on future energy bills. There’s no statewide net metering policy in Idaho, but Avista Utilities, Idaho Power, Rocky Mountain Power and Idaho Falls Power offer net metering for residential customers with systems up to 25 kilowatts (kW).
Based on feedback from several solar customers in the Gem State, it seems like solar panels are worth it in Idaho.
With electricity costs continuing to rise, more Idaho homeowners find solar power is financially worth it in the long run. On average, Idahoans with solar panels can avoid $7,664 in total utility costs over 25 years.
» STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons
Some scammers in Idaho falsely claim to be associated with Idaho Power or mislead people about solar energy systems. They often exaggerate payback periods, give wrong tax credit information and promise unrealistic savings on electricity bills. To protect yourself, Idaho Power recommends doing thorough research before investing in solar energy.
Installing solar panels in Idaho requires several permits, including electrical, building and zoning approvals. You may also need permission from your homeowners association. Specific requirements can vary based on location and project details, so it's best to check with local authorities. These rules ensure solar installations are safe and comply with state and local regulations.
Plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west is best for optimal sun exposure. Idaho averages 4 to 4.5 peak sun hours each day. However, if you have a lot of shading around your house, they might not get enough sun to power your home. It’s also smart to upgrade any old, inefficient appliances first. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies, more commonly known as solar panels, absorb sunlight and convert it into usable electricity.
We suggest using NREL’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house — just type in your address. Project Sunroof is a free solar savings estimator powered by Google Earth imagery.
As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This will cost around $5,000 for a 19-panel setup.
We started with a list of popular solar companies and narrowed it down to those serving Idaho. We then ranked them based on the factors that matter most to homeowners:
Local customer satisfaction (65%)
We analyzed reviews from verified customers in Idaho. Companies with the most recent positive ratings were scored higher.
Price satisfaction (7%)
We evaluated customer feedback on overall cost and value.
Installation satisfaction (7%)
We looked at reviews of the installation process, including professionalism, timeliness and overall quality of the work.
Customer service satisfaction (7%)
We evaluated feedback on how responsive and helpful each company is before, during and after installation.
Payment options (7%)
We considered companies that make paying for solar easier by offering multiple financing and payment options.
Warranties and guarantees (7%)
A long warranty shows confidence in a company’s work. We compared both equipment and workmanship warranties. Our top picks provide 10 to 25 years of coverage.
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this guide include:
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| Company | Customer rating | About | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
Blue Raven Solar
| 3.3
319 reviews
| Offers solar energy systems for $0 down. Offers 18 months of free solar power. Handles design, permits and installation. Includes a 25-year manufacturer warranty. Available in select states across the country. | Get Started |
ShopSolar
| 4.6
219 reviews
| Solar energy solutions. Offers solar energy kits, DIY solar kits and lithium batteries. Small- and large-scale equipment. Online purchasing with shipping to 48 states. Partner installer network. Financing and warranty available. | Read reviews |
Suntria
| 2.8
11 reviews
| Residential solar energy system installations in nine different states. Warranties cover 30 years of roof penetration protection, labor, parts and production. Major components from brands like Enphase, K2, REC Group and Silfab. | Read reviews |
Tesla Energy
| 2.1
587 reviews
| Low-profile design with no visible hardware. One of the country’s largest solar installers. Easy-to-use app to customize settings. Offers in-house financing options. Price-match guarantee. | Read reviews |
Powur
| 1.1
6 reviews
| Residential solar installer serving 22 U.S. states including California and Texas. Also serves the territory of Puerto Rico. Warranties available. Offers financing in the form of loans or lease. | Read reviews |
Aurora Solar
| 4.0
View profile
| Online solar marketplace. Connects you to solar panel installers and lenders. Online quotes in less than 60 seconds. Nationwide availability. Vetted installer network. Free quotes. Federal tax incentives for panel installation. | Read reviews |
Custom Solar
| 2.0
View profile
| Residential and commercial installation and maintenance across 29 states and Washington, D.C. Tesla Powerwall sales and installations. Hybrid and off-grid residential installations available. | Read reviews |
EnergyPal
| 2.0
View profile
| Many solar panel brands available. Sells solar panels, backup batteries and solar inverters. Three different financing types offered with multiple lender options. Costs typically range from $8,000 to $32,000. | Learn More |
Plugged Solar
| 2.0
View profile
| Offers several types of plug-and-play DIY solar kits for homeowners to install without additional labor costs. Shipping throughout the United States. All products come with a 30-day return policy and a minimum one-year warranty. | Read reviews |
All American Solar
| 1.7
View profile
| Home solar installation across 25 states and Washington, D.C. 25-year 100% replacement warranty. Pay with cash or qualify for zero-down financing. 24/7 monitoring of solar system installations. Free solar system design proposal. | Read reviews |
Blue Pacific Solar
| 1.0
View profile
| Sells DIY solar and wind energy kits. Ships across all of the U.S., except Alaska and Hawaii. Accepts PayPal Credit, Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. Offers products from brands like Briggs & Stratton and Sol-Ark. | Read reviews |
Everlight Solar
| 1.0
View profile
| Everlight Solar specializes in residential solar panel installations, solar storage and ongoing maintenance. The company is headquartered in Wisconsin and services parts of the West and Midwest. | Read reviews |
Proclaim Solar
| 1.0
View profile
| Residential solar installations in 14 states. Equipment from Enphase Energy, SolarEdge, and SunPower. Comprehensive 30-year warranties on major components and labor plus 30 years of roof penetration protection. | Read reviews |
Big Dog Solar Energy
| No reviews | Covers Idaho and Colorado. Provides commercial, residential and agricultural solar featuring a variety of brands, including LG and REC. Most components include 25-year labor warranties. | |
Creative Energies
| No reviews | Residential, commercial and industrial solar energy systems across Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Systems include components from Enphase, Generac, the REC Group, SolarEdge and Tesla. 25-year standard manufacturer warranty included. | |
EGT Solar
| No reviews | Residential, commercial and agricultural solar installation in most central and southern Idaho locations. 10-year workmanship and 25-year manufacturers’ warranties. Free estimates available. | |
Golden Gate Solar Tech
| No reviews | Solar parts dealer and installer offering systems for homes, businesses, industrial buildings and cities. Also offers small specialty solar systems. Installations worldwide. Equipment from a variety of manufacturers. | |
Infinity Solar USA
| No reviews | Residential solar installations in the Pacific Northwest and much of the Southwest. Pay with cash or finance products from APsystems, Grace Solar, Sense Solar and Silfab. Free quotes available upon request. | |
Intermountain Wind and Solar
| No reviews | Solar installations and roofing in parts of Idaho, Nevada and Wyoming and throughout Utah and Oregon. Financing available on a selection of brands including Qcells, Silfab and Tesla. 10-year warranty on batteries. | |
JKL Electric
| No reviews | Installs Enphase solar equipment and Generac batteries and generators on residential properties in western Montana and parts of Idaho. Offers components from Enphase and Generac. Also performs electrical contracting work. | |
Powered Alliance Solar
| No reviews | Specializes in commercial and residential solar installations. Hybrid and off-grid systems available for residential installations. Solar hot water systems and solar pool heating systems available. | |
Renewable Energy NW
| No reviews | Residential, commercial and agricultural installation of solar energy systems, solar thermal, whole house fans and electrical upgrades in the Northwest and Southeast. Free estimates available. | |
Second Sun Solar
| No reviews | Residential and commercial solar energy systems installation as well as energy storage in Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Headquartered in Logan, Utah. Call today to schedule your free consultation. | |
TGE Solar
| No reviews | Residential and commercial installation of solar energy systems in Idaho, Kentucky, Ohio and Washington. Offers a 30-year warranty on workmanship and equipment. Finance through a loan. Get a free energy analysis today. | |
Freedom Forever
| 3.8
412 reviews
| Freedom Forever specializes in residential solar panel installation and solar storage solutions. Service areas extend to parts of the West, Northeast, South and Midwest. | Read reviews |
1Solar
| 2.0
View profile
| Provides residential solar energy installation services. Offers Enphase Energy, IronRidge, SolarEdge and VSUN products. Available in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Texas and Utah. | Read reviews |
G3 Solar
| 1.0
View profile
| Solar installation and roofing services. Offers products from Trina Solar and Lithion’s HomeGrid. Serves residential and commercial clients. Solar financing options available. Available in 13 states. | Read reviews |
ES Solar
| 1.0
View profile
| ES Solar is a solar installer based in North Layton, Utah. It offers services across the state. | Read reviews |
Solgen Power
| No reviews | Solgen Power specializes in residential solar panel installations, solar storage and ongoing maintenance. Service areas extend across parts of the West, Southwest, Midwest and Upper South. | |
ADT Solar
| 1.0
83 reviews
| National solar installer specializing in grid-tied residential solar and electric vehicle charging. Offers 25-year warranties on workmanship, panels, microinverters and power production. | Read reviews |
Burdick Technologies Unlimited
| No reviews | Specializes in commercial and residential solar installations in Colorado, Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Offers products from UNI-SOLAR. Solar water and air heating system installations available. | |
Green Wind and Solar
| No reviews | Solar installer offering systems for homes and businesses. Also offers small solar for RVs and boats, as well as wind systems. Installs nationwide. Offers products from Enphase Energy, Kyocera, Schüco and Sharp. |



