Solar Panel Cost in Sioux Falls, SD

Estimated costs and savings for ZIP code 57101 — updated for 2026

Urgent tax credit deadlines

  • Section 48E phase-out completes December 31, 2027 — projects must be placed in service by then (515 days left).
See the full deadline tracker

Gross Cost

$19,600

7kW system

Annual Savings

$1,603

$134/month

Payback Period

12.2 yrs

Break-even

Peak Sun Hours

4.1

hrs/day avg

Solar System Cost Breakdown — Sioux Falls, SD

Estimated costs and savings for different residential solar system sizes in ZIP 57101. Costs based on SD average of $2.80/W and utility rate of $0.18/kWh.

SystemCostSavings/yrPayback
4 kW$11,200$91612.2 yrs
5 kW$14,000$1,14512.2 yrs
6 kW$16,800$1,37412.2 yrs
7 kW(typical)$19,600$1,60312.2 yrs
8 kW$22,400$1,83212.2 yrs
10 kW$28,000$2,29012.2 yrs

Solar Production in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Average Peak Sun Hours

4.1 hours/day

Moderate solar resource — still cost-effective

Est. Annual Production (7kW)

8,904 kWh

Based on 4.1 PSH × 7kW × 365 days × 85% efficiency

Average Utility Rate

$0.18/kWh

High utility rates make solar especially valuable

Cost Per Watt in SD

$2.80/W

Below national average — competitive market

Solar Panel FAQ — Sioux Falls, SD

How much do solar panels cost in Sioux Falls, SD?
A typical 7kW solar system in Sioux Falls, SD (ZIP 57101) costs approximately $19,600 before any incentives. This works out to about $2.80 per watt installed. Smaller systems start around $11,200, while larger 10kW systems can cost up to $28,000.
How long is the solar payback period in Sioux Falls?
The average solar payback period in Sioux Falls, SD is approximately 12.2 years for a 7kW system. With estimated annual savings of $1,603, the system pays for itself and then generates free electricity for the remaining 15-20+ years of its lifespan.
How much can I save with solar panels in 57101?
Homeowners in Sioux Falls, SD (ZIP 57101) can save approximately $134 per month or $1,603 per year with a standard 7kW solar system. Over 25 years, total savings can exceed $40,075, depending on utility rate increases.
How many peak sun hours does Sioux Falls get?
Sioux Falls, SD receives an average of 4.1 peak sun hours per day. This is near the national average, making solar a solid investment in this area.
What size solar system do I need for my home in Sioux Falls?
The average home in Sioux Falls, SD needs a 7kW solar system to offset their electricity usage. The exact size depends on your monthly electric bill, roof orientation, and available space. A 7kW system would produce approximately 8,904 kWh annually in ZIP 57101.

Looking for another area? Browse all ZIP codes →

Written & reviewed by

Jeremy Wolfe — Senior Solar Energy Analyst

Jeremy Wolfe is a solar energy analyst specializing in residential photovoltaic economics, federal and state incentive policy, and return-on-investment modeling for homeowners. He leads EnergyTools' solar research program and methodology.

  • 10+ years analyzing residential solar economics and payback modeling
  • Lead researcher for EnergyTools' 50-state solar cost-per-watt database
  • Author of 100+ solar ROI, payback, and incentive analyses

Methodology & data sources:NREL PVWatts, EPA FuelEconomy.gov, state utility commissions— updated 2026.