Best 5 Solar Companies in Shoreline, WA

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Shoreline

The cost and efficacy of solar panels often hinge on which company installed them. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.

Licensing and Training

Solar contractors in Washington need to hold an electrical contractors' license from the Department of Labor and Industries. In certain situations, the department may also conduct permit inspections to confirm compliance and the viability and integrity of a contractor's job. Solar installers can also pursue certifications from trade groups and standards organizations. The most prestigious 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 Shoreline

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.

If you'd like to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By choosing the right components, you can make your system more productive and user-friendly. Not every solar contractor offers these optional components, so look for a company that installs them if it's essential for you.

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

Financing Solar Energy in Shoreline

Choosing the best financing option will affect your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include leases, power purchase agreements, loans, and cash payments. Though it involves 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 second most effective 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 allow you to pay a monthly fee to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in specific circumstances. Ask each business you're vetting about the payment options it offers. A staff member can help you determine the best option for your financial situation.

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

You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, local governments and utilities may have their own financing plans and rebates that could reduce your total cost even more.