Electricity Rates in Meridian, ID (2026)
The average residential electricity rate in Meridian, ID is approximately 11.0 cents/kWh. This is 10% above the Idaho state average of 10.0 cents/kWh, and 31% below the national average of 16.0 cents/kWh. Even with lower rates, Meridian homeowners can benefit from solar through state incentives, net metering, and protection against future rate increases.
Idaho State Average
10.0¢
per kWh
Meridian is 10% higher
National Average
16.0¢
per kWh
Meridian is 31% lower
Utility Providers Serving Meridian, ID
The following utility companies operate in Idaho and may serve the Meridian area. Rates can vary depending on your specific provider and plan.
| Utility Provider | Avg Rate ($/kWh) | Service Area |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho Power | $0.10/kWh | Southern Idaho |
| Avista Utilities | $0.09/kWh | Northern Idaho |
| Rocky Mountain Power | $0.11/kWh | Eastern Idaho |
| Idaho Falls Power | $0.08/kWh | Idaho Falls area |
Electricity Rate History in Meridian, ID
The table below shows the trend of residential electricity rates in the Meridian area over recent years. Understanding rate trends helps you evaluate the long-term value of going solar.
| Year | Avg Rate (cents/kWh) | Year-over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 8.0¢ | -- |
| 2021 | 9.0¢ | +12.5% |
| 2022 | 9.0¢ | 0.0% |
| 2023 | 10.0¢ | +11.1% |
| 2024 | 10.0¢ | 0.0% |
| 2025 | 10.0¢ | 0.0% |
Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) residential electricity rate data for Idaho.
How Meridian Electricity Rates Affect Solar Savings
Your electricity rate is the single most important factor in determining how quickly solar panels pay for themselves. At 11.0 cents/kWh, every kilowatt-hour your solar system generates directly offsets energy you would otherwise purchase from your utility provider.
Although Meridian's electricity rate is currently below the national average, rates in Idaho have been trending upward. The typical solar payback period in Idaho is approximately 9 years. Installing solar now locks in your energy costs for 25+ years, protecting you from future rate increases while benefiting from available state incentives.
Idaho's net metering policy is another advantage for Meridian homeowners. When your solar system produces more energy than you use, the excess is sent back to the grid and you receive credits on your electric bill. During peak production months, these credits can offset your costs during lower-production periods, effectively reducing your annual electricity bill to near zero.
With approximately 4.7 peak sun hours per day, Meridian receives good solar irradiance. Combined with available incentives and available state incentives, solar panels are a smart financial decision for homeowners in Meridian, ID.
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