Blue Raven Solar

- Max. panel efficiency
- Varies
- Panel warranty
- 25 years
- Payment options
- Cash, loan, lease
- Year founded
- 2014


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 | 3.5
277 reviews
277 reviews
| Professional installation | Varies | 25 years | Cash, loan, lease, PPA | Yes | 2014 |
![]() ShopSolar | Learn More | 4.7
218 reviews
218 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 $8,790 to $25,114 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 $8,790 and $25,114.
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 $2.51.
Average solar installation cost by system size in Idaho
| 5 kW | 6 kW | 7 kW | 8 kW | 9 kW | 10 kW | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Before federal tax credit | $12,557 | $15,068 | $17,580 | $20,091 | $22,602 | $25,114 |
| After federal tax credit | $8,790 | $10,548 | $12,306 | $14,064 | $15,822 | $17,580 |
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 14.27 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.
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 $36,949 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:
Thanks for subscribing.
You have successfully subscribed to our newsletter! Enjoy reading our tips and recommendations.
| Company | Customer rating | About | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 3.5
277 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 |
![]() | 4.7
218 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 |
![]() | 2.8
9 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 |
![]() | 1.9
572 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 |
![]() | 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 |
![]() | 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 |
![]() | 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 |
![]() | 1.5
View profile
| 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 |
![]() | 1.3
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 |
![]() | 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 |
![]() | 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 |
![]() | No reviews | Area-based solar installer for homes and businesses across the entire United States. Also offers roofing and engineering services. Financing is available through loans. Systems include SunPower components. | |
![]() | No reviews | Headquartered in New York City and London. Performs solar installation services worldwide. Products from SMA, SunPower and Xantrex. Installs building-integrated panels in addition to roof and ground-mounted systems. | |
![]() | No reviews | Commercial and industrial solar, including large-scale projects plus energy audits, EV charging and lighting systems. Offers installations across all 48 states in the U.S. mainland. Products from Schneider Electric and Siemens. | |
![]() | No reviews | Residential and commercial solar panel design, installation and maintenance. Serves worldwide, including Middle East, Asia, Europe and the U.S. Financing options and warranties available. | |
![]() | 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. | |
![]() | 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. | |
![]() | 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. | |
![]() | No reviews | Specializes in residential solar installations. Offers products from Enphase Energy, Generac PWRcell, SolarEdge and Storz Power. Offers 10-year workmanship guarantees and 25-year product warranties. | |
![]() | No reviews | Commercial solar energy system installation plus EV charging across the continental U.S. Other construction-based services include data center construction, electrical engineering, infrastructure development and procurement. | |
![]() | No reviews | Commercial and large-scale solar energy system installations plus HVAC services, refrigeration, LED lighting and battery sales. Serves the U.S. and some international areas. Financing options available. | |
![]() | 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. | |
![]() | No reviews | Specializes in commercial, residential and utility-scale solar installations. Services available in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Texas and Utah. | |
![]() | No reviews | 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. | |
![]() | No reviews | Sells DIY solar kits throughout the U.S. Kits can be ground- or roof-mounted and include well-known brands like Enphase, Sol-Ark, IronRidge and SunSpark. Solar loans are available. | |
![]() | 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. | |
![]() | No reviews | Solar installer offering commercial and industrial solar energy systems in 25 U.S. states, including California, New York and Texas. Financing available through a loan, lease or power purchase agreement. | |
![]() | 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. | |
![]() | No reviews | Specializes in commercial, industrial, governmental and utility-scale solar. Performs large-scale engineering and contracting projects worldwide. Large-scale EV charging station design and implementation. | |
![]() | No reviews | 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. | |
![]() | 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. | |
![]() | 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. | |
![]() | 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. | |
![]() | No reviews | Commercial, institutional, municipal and utility-scale solar energy system installations. Also offers construction services, power distribution, communications infrastructure and transportation contracting throughout the U.S. | |
![]() | No reviews | Residential and commercial solar panel installer offering services across the entire continental United States. Also offers EV charging solutions. Financing options and warranties available. | |
![]() | No reviews | Specializes in commercial and residential solar installations. Finance with capital leases, operating leases or pay upfront. Offers 25-year manufacturer's warranties on products and variable-term workmanship warranties. | |
![]() | No reviews | Commercial and industrial solar installations, specializing in utility-scale installation. Carries JA Solar, LONGi, and SMA components. Founded in 1954. Service available nationwide. | |
![]() | No reviews | Residential, commercial and agricultural DIY solar energy system kits and products shipped across the continental United States. Offers brands like EG4 Electronics and Hoymiles. Schedule a free consultation today. | |
![]() | No reviews | Commercial solar installation and monitoring across the United States. Founded and headquartered in New Jersey. Finance through PPAs or loans. 25-year manufacturer’s warranty on panels. Been in business since 2009. | |
![]() | No reviews | Solar installations on homes and businesses throughout Arizona plus Eagle in Idaho and Upland in California. Financing options include loans and leases. System components from brands like Enphase, FranklinWH, Panasonic and Tesla. | |
![]() | No reviews | 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. | |
![]() | 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. | |
![]() | No reviews | Residential and commercial solar energy system installation and roofing services for 31 states, including Idaho. Offers 25-year system and 10-year roof warranties. Free estimates available. | |
![]() | 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. | |
![]() | 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. | |
![]() | No reviews | Commercial solar energy system installation plus energy storage and EV charging across the U.S. Offers a 25-year warranty on solar array equipment. Finance with a solar loan, C-PACE loan, PPA or lease. | |
![]() | No reviews | Residential solar installation, commercial solar installation, solar water heating and installation, and solar pool heating and installation. Founded in 1986. 10-year warranty on panels. Offers loans and net metering. | |
![]() | No reviews | Residential solar energy system installations, energy storage, solar monitoring and roofing services in 40 states nationwide. Offers brands like SunPower and Enphase Energy. Finance through a loan, lease or PPA. | |
![]() | No reviews | Residential solar panel design, installation, maintenance and energy monitoring. Its service area extends across 19 states, including California, Florida and Texas. Leases and power purchase agreements available. | |
![]() | No reviews | Sells DIY kits for installing solar energy systems. Ships to the lower 48 states. Offers a 15-year manufacturer's warranty and 25-year performance warranty on solar panels from AXITEC. Pay upfront or through a loan. | |
![]() | No reviews | Commercial, nonprofit, military and industrial installation of solar thermal water heating systems in the United States. Offers brands like SOLARHOT. Pay upfront or finance through a loan. | |
![]() | No reviews | Online retailer of solar DIY kits and other renewable energy products such as solar-powered lights, wind turbine kits, composting supplies and more. Offers free shipping on orders over $75. | |
![]() | No reviews | Installs solar energy, solar hot water, solar pool heating and lighting for residential and commercial projects of all sizes. Offers installation services across the United States, plus sales and customer service worldwide. | |
![]() | No reviews | Sol Solutions Today: Sol Solutions Today offers residential solar installation, solar fans, insulation and other home services. Manufactures its own solar panels. Based in San Diego and available throughout the West Coast. | |
![]() | No reviews | Residential and commercial solar panel design, installation and maintenance. Also offers roofing services, window installations and energy monitoring. Serves California, Idaho and Nevada. 25-year system warranties. | |
![]() | No reviews | Residential and commercial solar installation, energy storage, wind turbines, EV charging, electrical services and smart-home automation in California’s North Bay Area and northern Idaho. Offers brands like SPAN and the REC Group. | |
![]() | No reviews | Commercial solar installation services. Covers businesses in the lower 48 states. Payment options include solar loans and power purchase agreements. Relies on manufacturer warranties. | |
![]() | No reviews | Residential and commercial installation service available worldwide, including special custom projects. Uses components by Enphase Energy and SMA. Service inspections available to ensure system fidelity. | |
![]() | 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. | |
![]() | No reviews | Headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, and performing installations nationwide. Installs residential and commercial solar electric systems. Offers grid-tied, off-grid, battery storage and EV charging. | |
![]() | No reviews | Phoenix, Arizona-based solar installer specializing in residential, commercial and industrial solar installations. Offers services across the entire United States. Also installs EV chargers. | |
![]() | No reviews | Energy management company offering commercial and residential solar design and installation worldwide. Headquarters in Lehi, Utah. Has completed more than 5,000 projects around the world. | |
![]() | No reviews | Solar installer serving homes in the mid-Atlantic region with solar power and water heating. Offers solar for businesses globally. Financing available through loans. Offers brands like OutBack Power, Sharp and Xantrex. | |
![]() | No reviews | Based in Kansas. Offers solar energy system installations to businesses across the United States. Founded in 2006. Provides lighting services as well as energy auditing services and assessments. | |
![]() | 4.1
281 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 |
![]() | 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 |
![]() | 1.0
View profile
| Provides solar panel installation and battery storage. Partners with businesses to lower costs. Offers financing options. 10+ years experience. Installations take 24-48 hours. | Get a Quote |
![]() | 1.0
View profile
| ES Solar is a solar installer based in North Layton, Utah. It offers services across the state. | Read reviews |
![]() | No reviews | Provides residential solar energy installation services. Offers Enphase Energy, IronRidge, SolarEdge and VSUN products. Available in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Texas and Utah. | |
![]() | No reviews | Offers residential solar solutions. Services 26 states nationwide. Fill out a form online for a free consultation and quote. Partners with GivePower Foundation, an NGO based in Texas. | |
![]() | No reviews | Encor Solar specializes in residential solar panel installation. Service areas extend to parts of the West, South and Midwest. | |
![]() | 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. | |
![]() | No reviews | Sells residential and commercial solar energy systems nationwide. Wide selection of brands. Installation is through contractors or DIY. Lifetime tech support in addition to manufacturer’s warranty. | |
![]() | No reviews | Solar installations for homes, businesses and farms in parts of Idaho and Oregon. Ground and roof mounts available. Panels from brands like Boviet Solar, JinkoSolar, Qcells and Silfab. |


