Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy comes with multiple advantages. Let's look at a few of them.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with energy storage systems work through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to depend on your power company for your safety and comfort.
- Lowered energy bills: With solar energy systems, you produce power without paying the tacked-on costs of grid-tied power. Going off-grid can eliminate your bills completely. Plus, a significant number of states have adopted net metering, which permit you to earn money by selling your unused energy back to the grid.
- Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is one of the universe's most abundant clean energy sources, meaning you can lower or beat your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Seattle Homeowners?
The state of Washington offers a number of solar incentives to help offset your solar system costs. Below is a breakdown of relevant solar programs where you live.
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 Seattle
Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and valuable solar system. Here are some essential aspects to consider while searching for a solar specialist.
Licensing and Training
Solar installers in Washington must hold an electrical contractors' license from the Department of Labor and Industries. In some situations, the department may also conduct permit inspections to test compliance and the viability and integrity of a contractor's job. Solar installers can also obtain certifications from trade groups and standards organizations. The top ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.
Cost of Solar Panels in Seattle
Your solar modules' style will impact how much electricity you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. Thin-film panels are excellent for non-traditional roof shapes and cost the least, but don't work well for large residential installations.
If you want to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in inclement weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By selecting the right components, you can make your system more efficient and user-friendly. Not all solar contractors offer these additional features, so look for a company that installs them if it's important for you.
If you're a resident of Seattle and are considering getting a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $17,950 for materials and labor. See more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,255 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $979 |
| Thin-Film | $572 |
| Solar Battery | $803 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $3,012 |
Financing Solar Energy in Seattle
Solar installers use multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs), cash payments and solar leases. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most economical 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 involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) lets you pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. We generally don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the panels and are disqualified from using solar incentives. We suggest working with an installer that offers multiple financing options. Talk to each representative about what's available, and secure more than one estimate for the best odds of staying within your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Seattle.
The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal solar tax credit on your new solar panels, so long as you purchase it before 2032. Municipal authorities and utilities might also offer their own rebates, incentives, and financing programs that could save you more money.
| 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 Seattle
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
How widespread is solar energy in Seattle?
Will solar panels raise my Seattle home worth?
What's a Seattle solar panel's average lifespan?
How long does the photovoltaic installation process take?
How long does it take to pay back a solar loan in Seattle?
What are the signs I shouldn't use a particular solar company for my job?
- Aggressive sales pitch
- Dodging questions about references, cost, warranties and credentials and training
- Inflexible options
- Not thoroughly inspecting your site
- No business filing with your local secretary of state
How are traditional solar loans and PPAs different?
In contrast, solar loans can come from local banks, installer, the government and specialty lenders. 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 taking care of the system, you'll also have total ownership and can apply for many more incentives.
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