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Is Solar Worth It in Security-Widefield, Colorado?

We analyzed Colorado Springs Utilities rate books, NREL irradiance data, and Colorado tax codes to calculate the real ROI for homeowners in 80911.

Market Snapshot

Elec. Rate
$0.1627/kWh
Sun Hours
5.88
Utility Colorado Springs Utilities
Tax Exempt Yes
Battery Optional

Analyst Note: The "4kW Benchmark"

The analysis below uses a standardized 4kW system to provide a fair baseline comparison across cities. However, the average electric bill in Security-Widefield is $122.03.

Living with a view of Pikes Peak means you get some of the best sun in the country—over 300 days a year. For homeowners in Security-Widefield, this makes solar a powerful tool to take control of rising Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) electric bills, which average over $122 a month.

Benchmark Cost Analysis

2026 Solar & Battery Costs in Security-Widefield

The upfront investment in solar is made significantly more affordable by federal and state incentives. Here’s a look at the typical costs for a system designed to offset a $122 monthly bill:

  • Solar Only System: The most common choice for maximum ROI. The gross cost is around $11,500, but after the 30% federal tax credit, your net cost drops to just $8,050. This system pays for itself in about 7.5 years.
  • Solar + Battery System: For those concerned about grid outages during severe weather, adding a battery provides crucial backup power. A combined system runs about $23,500 upfront, or $16,450 after the 30% credit, with a payback period closer to 15 years.

Incentives & Tax Credits

Available Solar Incentives for CSU Customers

Colorado offers some of the nation's best solar perks, on top of the main federal credit.

  • Federal Solar Tax Credit: This is the big one. You get 30% of your total system cost (panels and battery) back as a dollar-for-dollar credit on your federal taxes.
  • State Sales Tax Exemption: Colorado completely exempts renewable energy equipment from the state's 2.9% sales tax, saving you hundreds of dollars instantly.
  • Property Tax Exemption: Adding solar panels increases your home's value, but thanks to a state exemption, your property taxes will not go up a dime.

While Xcel Energy customers often have access to additional rebates, Colorado Springs Utilities runs its own programs. It's important to check the latest CSU incentives when you get a quote.

Net Metering: Colorado Springs Utilities

Policy Status

Net Metering Active

Battery Priority

Optional

Understanding Net Metering with Colorado Springs Utilities

Colorado has a strong net metering policy. For every excess kilowatt-hour (kWh) your solar panels produce and send to the grid, CSU must credit your account at the full retail rate. This 1-to-1 credit is what makes 'solar only' systems so financially attractive here. Your excess production in sunny summer months effectively banks credits that you can use during shorter winter days, zeroing out your bill for much of the year.

Projected Savings

Slashing Your Monthly Colorado Springs Utilities Bill

With an average electricity rate of over 16 cents per kWh, a standard 4kW solar system in Security-Widefield can save you around $1,077 in your first year. Thanks to Colorado's high solar irradiance (5.88), your panels will produce efficiently year-round, even in winter. Over 25 years, these savings can exceed $35,000 as utility rates continue to climb.

Local Questions Answered

How do solar panels handle the snow we get in Security-Widefield?
Panels are durable and designed to handle snow loads. The dark surface of the panels helps snow melt and slide off faster. Production is lower on heavy snow days, but Colorado's 300+ sunny days a year provide more than enough power to make up for it.
Is a battery necessary with CSU's net metering program?
Financially, no. CSU's 1-to-1 net metering means you get full value without a battery. However, a battery is the only way to have backup power during a grid outage, which some homeowners prioritize for peace of mind.
What size system do I need for my home near Fort Carson?
System size depends entirely on your average electricity consumption, not your home's square footage. A 4kW system is common for offsetting a $122/month bill. The calculator below can give you a more precise recommendation based on your actual usage.

Calculate Your Solar Savings

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* Calculations based on Colorado Springs Utilities residential rates (0.1627/kWh).

Data Transparency & Methodology

Estimates for Security-Widefield, Colorado are produced by the SunCents Solar Engine (v1.2). We combine the following verified or standard industry sources:

Performance (PV production)

NREL PVWatts — modeled annual and hourly AC output (kWh), solar radiation, and system losses for a standardized array size so cities can be compared fairly.

nrel.gov

Electricity rates (tariffs)

U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) — state-level average retail electricity prices ($/kWh) and supporting series for economic context.

eia.gov

Incentives & programs

DSIRE — state and local rebates, net metering, and policy programs (summarized for readability; always confirm eligibility with a tax or solar professional).

dsireusa.org

Federal tax credit (ITC)

Investment Tax Credit — federal residential solar credit (e.g. 30% of qualified costs where applicable); rules change with statute—verify with a qualified advisor.

energy.gov

Utilities & interconnection

Where shown, local utilities (e.g. APS, PG&E, FPL, and other IOUs or munis) are mapped from public interconnection, tariff, or service-territory references so net metering and rider rules match your area—not generic national averages.