Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers multiple advantages. Here are some highlights.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with battery storage systems function through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on the power grid for your safety and well-being.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Embracing solar is a surefire way to reduce your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
- Lower utility costs: Producing some or all of your own electricity will spend less on electricity long-term. Plus, some states provide net metering programs that enable you to sell your unused energy back to the grid, generating additional credits toward your energy bill.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Wenatchee Homeowners?
Washington homeowners who go solar could qualify for reimbursements, special financing, tax credits and rebates. Here are just a few of the area'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 Wenatchee
The purchase price and performance of solar panels often depend on which company mounted them. Consider all of these elements in your business search.
Licensing and Training
Solar energy 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 verify compliance and the integrity and viability of a contractor's job. Check a company's website for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), one of the solar industry's most credible trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.
Cost of Solar Panels in Wenatchee
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 provide a lower price point but produce less power. 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.
You can also add electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can enhance your solar system's performance. Not all solar contractors offer these add-ons, so look for a provider that sells them if it's crucial for you.
A majority of Wenatchee homeowners choose solar systems designed for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems cost about $17,950 to install, considering both parts and installation. You can find more specific solar cost information in the table.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,200 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $936 |
| Thin-Film | $547 |
| Solar Battery | $768 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,880 |
Financing Solar Energy in Wenatchee
There are numerous ways to pay for a new solar system, and the right one will minimize your overhead. A few of the most common options include cash payments, power purchase agreements (PPAs), loans, and leases. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most economical 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 allow you to rent 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 do not provide you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Ask each installer you're vetting about the payment options it offers. A salesperson can help you determine the best option for your pocketbook.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Wenatchee.
A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to new residential solar equipment purchased through 2032. Further incentives may be available through local governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.
| 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 Wenatchee
How much money could I save by going solar in Wenatchee?
How prevalent is solar energy in Wenatchee?
Should I expect a property value increase after switching to solar energy?
What can I do to estimate my home's solar viability?
What's a Wenatchee solar panel's average lifespan?
How long does it take to pay back a solar loan in Wenatchee?
How can I boost 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
How are a solar lease and PPA different?
You don't own the panels with either option, though you can choose to opt out of the contract for a fee.
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