Solar Panel Savings in Rawlins, WY
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Rawlins, Wyoming. Based on 5.4 peak sun hours/day and 9.4¢/kWh average electricity rate.
5.4
Peak Sun Hours/Day
9.4¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
16.5 yr
Payback Period
$30k
25-Year Savings
Rawlins Solar Overview
Calculate Your Rawlins Solar Savings
Rawlins average: $84/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
$30,264
Monthly Savings
$74
Federal Tax Credit
$6,120
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Rawlins | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $20,400 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$6,120 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $14,280 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $3.40/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Rawlins
Sun Hours vs National Average
Rawlins gets 20% more sun than the national average.
Climate Advantages
- 217 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 42°F — cooler temps actually improve panel efficiency
- Average roof size: 1,539 sq ft — enough for a 85-panel system
Rawlins Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $20,400 system, that's a $6,120 credit. Valid through 2032.
Wyoming State Incentives
Federal 30% ITC; check local utility for additional rebates.
Net Metering — Rocky Mountain Power
Rocky Mountain Power offers net metering in Rawlins. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Rawlins
3.9
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
65
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.9
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 9,461 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 Rawlins, Wyoming
Rawlins, Wyoming receives an average of 5.4 peak sun hours per day, providing excellent conditions for residential solar installations. With electricity rates averaging 9.4¢ per kWh from Rocky Mountain Power, below the national average, but with rates rising 2-3% annually, the long-term savings are still meaningful.
A typical 6kW solar system in Rawlins produces approximately 9,461 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $886 annually. The system pays for itself in about 16.1 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 9+ years of the system's warranty life.
Rawlins has a solar penetration rate of 4.4% — indicating early-stage solar adoption with tremendous growth potential as prices continue to fall. The cost of living index of 85.2 (national average: 100) reflects a lower cost of living, keeping installation costs competitive.
Other Cities in Wyoming
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Rawlins, WY?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Rawlins is approximately $20,400 before incentives ($3.40/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $14,280. Federal 30% ITC; check local utility for additional rebates.
How many peak sun hours does Rawlins get?
Rawlins, WY receives an average of 5.4 peak sun hours per day and approximately 217 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 Rawlins?
The average solar payback period in Rawlins is approximately 16.5 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 $30,264.
Does Rawlins have net metering?
Yes, Rawlins has access to net metering through Rocky Mountain Power. 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 Rawlins, WY?
Solar can still be worthwhile in Rawlins, especially with rising electricity rates. The 16.5-year payback means long-term savings of $30,264 over the system lifetime. The 30% federal tax credit and local incentives help make solar financially attractive.