Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple benefits. Let's look at a few of them.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems can keep your home functioning through emergencies and blackouts. You can use your solar energy anytime with an optional battery backup system.
- Reduced energy costs: Generating some or all of your own energy will save you money on your electric bills long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that enable you to sell your unused energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
- Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is one of the universe's most abundant clean energy sources, meaning you can reduce or eliminate your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Everett Homeowners?
Washington homeowners who upgrade to solar could qualify for tax credits, rebates, reimbursements and special financing. Here are just a few of the region's incentive offerings.
Incentive Type: Feed-in Tariff
Website: energy.wsu.eduIncentive Amount:
FY 2021: $0.02/kWh - $0.10/kWh
Incentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive
Website: dor.wa.govIncentive Amount:
100% exemption for sales of forest derived biomass used as fuel;
100% exemption for solar photovoltaic systems 10 kilowatts or less, and solar thermal systems;
75% exemption for other qualified systems
Incentive Type: Green Building Incentive
Website: commerce.wa.govIncentive Type: Personal Tax Credit
Website: ecowatch.comIncentive Amount:
30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.
How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Everett
The more informed your company research is, the better your solar system will ultimately perform. Here are some crucial criteria to keep in mind while searching for a solar provider.
Licensing and Training
Solar installers in Washington are required to hold an electrical contractors' license from the Department of Labor and Industries. In certain situations, the department may also conduct permit inspections to verify compliance and the integrity and viability of a contractor's job. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private credentials. Two of the most respected are the Solar Heating Installer and PV Installation Professional certificates, awarded by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.
Cost of Solar Panels in Everett
The style of solar panels you choose determines how much electricity you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.
If you need to charge an electric car or use your solar power in dark weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By choosing the right components, you can make your system more effective and convenient to use. Not all solar providers provide these extras, so look for a provider that sells them if it's crucial for you.
Most Everett homeowners select solar systems designed for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $17,950 to install, considering both materials and labor. You can find more specific solar cost information in the table.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,241 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $968 |
| Thin-Film | $566 |
| Solar Battery | $794 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,978 |
Financing Solar Energy in Everett
There are various ways to pay for new solar panels, and the right one will lower your costs. A few of the most common options include cash payments, power purchase agreements (PPAs), loans, and leases. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most cost-effective choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the runner-up option. As with a home or auto loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for cost-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases let you use your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and don't grant you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Look for companies that offer multiple payment plans to find the right fit for your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Everett.
You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar power systems until the year 2032. Local and state governments and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and unique financing solutions that could save you more.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 2.5 years |
| 2 kW | 5.0 years |
| 5 kW | 12.4 years |
| 10 kW | 24.9 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Everett
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
How prevalent is solar energy in Everett?
Should I anticipate a boost in my property value after installing solar panels?
What can I do to predict my home's solar potential?
How long is a Everett solar panel's average lifespan?
How do I care for my new solar system?
How can I maximize my solar panels' performance?
- optimize the panels' position with your solar installer
- regularly clean your solar panels
- upgrade to a more efficient inverter trim or cut down trees in the way of your panels
- use energy-efficient appliances
What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?
In contrast, solar loans can come from specialty lenders, local banks, the government and installer. You'll need to pass a credit check to qualify for most of them. While the upfront costs are higher, and you'll be responsible for upkeep, you'll also have full ownership rights and can apply for many more benefits.
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