Solar Panel Savings in Longmont, CO
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Longmont, Colorado. Based on 5.8 peak sun hours/day and 11.8¢/kWh average electricity rate.
5.8
Peak Sun Hours/Day
11.8¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
10.2 yr
Payback Period
$17k
25-Year Savings
Longmont Solar Overview
Calculate Your Longmont Solar Savings
Longmont average: $106/mo
South-facing roofs produce the most energy
Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup
Annual Production
kWh/year
Annual Savings
per year
Net System Cost
after 30% ITC
Payback Period
break-even time
25-Year Total Savings
$40,853
Monthly Savings
$100
Federal Tax Credit
$5,094
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Longmont | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $16,980 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,094 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $11,886 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $2.83/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Longmont
Sun Hours vs National Average
Longmont gets 29% more sun than the national average.
Climate Advantages
- 254 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 52°F — cooler temps actually improve panel efficiency
- Average roof size: 1,798 sq ft — enough for a 99-panel system
Longmont Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $16,980 system, that's a $5,094 credit. Valid through 2032.
Colorado State Incentives
Xcel Energy solar rebates; state sales tax exemption.
Net Metering — Xcel Energy
Xcel Energy offers net metering in Longmont. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Longmont
4.2
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
70
Equivalent Trees Planted
1.0
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 10,162 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.
Solar Energy in Longmont, Colorado
Longmont, Colorado receives an average of 5.8 peak sun hours per day, placing it among the best cities in the country for solar energy production. With electricity rates averaging 11.8¢ per kWh from Xcel Energy, below the national average, but with rates rising 2-3% annually, the long-term savings are still meaningful.
A typical 6kW solar system in Longmont produces approximately 10,162 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $1,196 annually. The system pays for itself in about 9.9 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 15+ years of the system's warranty life.
Longmont has a solar penetration rate of 9% — showing growing adoption of residential solar, with significant room for expansion. The cost of living index of 105.8 (national average: 100) is near the national average.
Other Cities in Colorado
Arvada, CO
Aurora, CO
Boulder, CO
Colorado Springs, CO
Denver, CO
Fort Collins, CO
Greeley, CO
Lakewood, CO
Pueblo, CO
Thornton, CO
Westminster, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Longmont, CO?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Longmont is approximately $16,980 before incentives ($2.83/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $11,886. Xcel Energy solar rebates; state sales tax exemption.
How many peak sun hours does Longmont get?
Longmont, CO receives an average of 5.8 peak sun hours per day and approximately 254 sunny days per year. This is above the national average of 4.5 hours, making it an excellent location for solar energy.
What is the solar payback period in Longmont?
The average solar payback period in Longmont is approximately 10.2 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $17,264.
Does Longmont have net metering?
Yes, Longmont has access to net metering through Xcel Energy. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.
Is solar worth it in Longmont, CO?
Yes, solar is a solid investment in Longmont. While the 10.2-year payback is moderate, you'll still save $17,264 over 25 years. The 30% federal tax credit and local incentives help make solar financially attractive.