Best 5 Solar Companies in Parkland, WA

Parkland homeowners are lucky to live in abundant sunlight, both to bask in and use for energy. Many are working with top solar installers to get panels on their roofs. With all the options to choose from in this concrete jungle, you might feel swamped searching for a top-notch company. On this page, we'll highlight Parkland's most reputable solar installers and give valuable advice for your solar journey.

Ranking Methodology

Our team used the following criteria to assess the best Parkland solar companies.

• Educational approach and support: Solar technicians must be knowledgeable. They should use their years of experience address your questions on how to look after your system and optimize its performance.
• Feedback and reviews from customers: Most Parkland solar installers have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio reflects a company's reliability and responsiveness to issues.
• Service offerings and warranties: Solar contractors should stand behind their equipment and services with warranties. We evaluated how each contractor responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on timeliness and customer happiness.
• Panel brands and quality: The top solar companies stay up-to-date with new technology, providing equipment from reliable, innovative manufacturers.
• Certifications and licenses: Each installer on our list complies with state and city licensing requirements and keeps current with industry best practices. Many of them have served the Parkland community for more than a decade.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy offers multiple perks. Here are some highlights.

• Lowered energy bills: You can skip the premium cost of grid-tied power by producing some electricity right where you use it. Plus, many states provide net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back for credits on your bill.
• Reduced carbon footprint: Utilizing solar is a surefire way to lower your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
• Better energy independence: Photovoltaic solar panel systems with battery storage systems work through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to depend on the grid for your safety and comfort.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Parkland Homeowners?

The state of Washington offers several solar incentives to help lower your solar system costs. Below is a breakdown of eligible solar programs where you live.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Parkland

Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and valuable solar array. Here are some important factors to keep in mind while searching for a solar specialist.

Licensing and Training

Solar energy companies in Washington must hold an electrical contractors' license from the Department of Labor and Industries. In specific situations, the department may also conduct permit inspections to test compliance and the viability and integrity of a contractor's job. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private credentials. Two of the most prestigious are the Solar Heating Installer and PV Installation Professional certificates, granted 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 Parkland

The type of solar panels you choose decides how much electricity you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. 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.

Additional components, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will increase your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar contractor includes these add-ons, so look for a provider that installs them if it's crucial for you.

Generally speaking, it costs about $17,950 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Parkland. This table shows more specific costs for different solar panel types and system components in your area.

Financing Solar Energy in Parkland

There are various ways to pay for a new solar system, and the right one will help you decrease overhead. A few of the most common options include loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs), leases, and cash payments. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most cost-effective choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the runner-up option. As with a car loan or mortgage, 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 rent your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, much like 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. Ask each company you're evaluating about the payment plans it offers. A consultant can help you determine the most suitable option for your budget.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Parkland.

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy equipment until the year 2032. Local and state governments and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and dedicated financing plans that could save you more.

Sources

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
• U.S. Department of Energy