Solar in Salt Lake City: What Homeowners Should Know
Salt Lake City sees an average of 5.9 peak sun hours per day, which is what ultimately determines how much electricity a rooftop system produces here. A standard 8 kW system (about 20 panels) generates roughly 13,782 kWh each year in Salt Lake City — and paired with Utah's local electricity rate of $0.105/kWh, that's where the savings come from.
At those numbers, a Salt Lake City homeowner saves about $121/month ($1,447/year). Against a $22,800 system cost, that works out to a payback of about 15.8 years, after which the system produces essentially free power for two decades — an estimated $26,631 in lifetime savings. Note: the 30% federal tax credit expired at the end of 2025 for purchased systems, though a solar lease or PPA can still pass it through. The local grid is served by Rocky Mountain Power, whose net metering policy directly affects how much credit you earn for surplus power.
Cost & Savings Breakdown
Based on a standard 8 kW system in Salt Lake City
25-Year Savings Projection
Utility & Net Metering
Available Incentives
Choosing a Solar Installer in Salt Lake City
- 1.Get at least 3 quotes. Prices in Utah vary widely between installers — comparing bids on the same 8 kW system is the fastest way to avoid overpaying.
- 2.Confirm Rocky Mountain Power interconnection experience. An installer who regularly files with your local utility will move your permit and net-metering paperwork through faster.
- 3.Check licensing & the warranty. Look for NABCEP-certified installers and a workmanship warranty of 10+ years on top of the standard 25-year panel warranty.
- 4.Size for your actual usage. With 5.9 sun hours/day in Salt Lake City, make sure the proposed system matches your kWh history — not just your roof space.
Common Questions
How much does solar cost in Salt Lake City?
Solar in Salt Lake City, Utah costs approximately $22,800 for a 8 kW system. The 30% federal tax credit expired December 31, 2025 for purchased systems, though solar leases and PPAs can still pass it through.
What is the solar payback period in Salt Lake City?
The estimated payback period for solar in Salt Lake City is 15.8 years for a standard 8 kW system, based on local sun hours of 5.9 hrs/day and a rate of $0.105/kWh.
Is solar worth it in Salt Lake City?
For most Salt Lake City homeowners, yes. With 5.9 peak sun hours per day and an electricity rate of $0.105/kWh, a typical system saves $1,447 per year and around $26,631 over 25 years after paying for itself in 15.8 years.
How many solar panels do I need in Salt Lake City?
A standard 8 kW home solar system is about 20 panels, producing roughly 13,782 kWh per year in Salt Lake City at 5.9 sun hours/day. Your exact size depends on your household's electricity use.
Does Rocky Mountain Power offer net metering?
Rocky Mountain Power offers Full Retail net metering. Full retail rate.