There can be solar tax credits and incentives available at the federal, state and local levels. The calculator above will show you the value of all incentives your home is eligible for.
Governor Jay Inslee needs some introductory theme music for this page. It should be snappy, hot, and full of swagger. In 2019, he helped lead a coalition of smart solar policy warriors to finally get the new solar law enacted they’ve wanted for ages.
That law, The Solar Fairness Act, expanded net metering and re-introduced a sales tax exemption for solar. All that support from the legislature adds up to a big jump in your solar incentive savings.
Learn what solar incentives are available to Washington homeowners
See what Washington solar incentives you qualify for based on your utility company and city
Find out how much these incentives and/or Washington solar tax credits will reduce your cost to go solar and add batteries
The federal solar investment tax credit will have the biggest impact on the cost you will face to go solar in Washington
If you install your photovoltaic system before the end of 2032, the federal tax credit is 30% of the cost of your solar panel system. This is 30% off the entire cost of the system including equipment, labor, and permitting.
Example: If your solar energy system costs $20,000, your federal solar tax credit would be $20,000 x 30% = $6,000.
The federal tax credit falls to 26% starting in 2033.
With net metering in some states, you get full retail rate credit for the amount of electricity you send back into the grid with your solar panels.
In 2019, Washington expanded its net metering requirements eightfold. This change should give the solar industry some much needed stability.
The best net metering laws make sure that you get the full retail value of every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of surplus you produce with your solar panels – either in credit to future bills or, if you consistently run a surplus, cash payments at the end of a regular accounting period.
In Washington however, any net surplus you have accumulated and not used as a bill credit are forfeited to the utility on March 31st of each year, without compensation. Don’t fret! This just requires a little more planning to make sure you don’t install more solar power capacity than you will use each year.
While Washington does not have a dedicated state rebate for solar panel installation, some manufacturers like LG offer their own solar rebates. These programs are usually time sensitive. For example, LG offers a $600 solar rebate on their equipment, which your installer can help you redeem over the next year.
In 2019, Washington restarted its 100% sales tax exemption on all equipment, all labor, and all services related to the installation of that equipment from all sales and use taxes on home solar systems up to 10kW. As the sales tax in Washington is currently 9%, that’s nothing to sneeze at when purchasing equipment that costs twenty to thirty thousand dollars. We’d love to see that 10kW maximum bumped up, but otherwise, that’s a model law right there. No twists, no tricks, just savings for smart solar energy.
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Prices based on a 11.7kW system, after 30% federal tax credit
45 solar companies in Washington provide pricing on SolarReviews. Here are the best rated companies near you.
4.82 198 Reviews
Glenn, over 1 month
We are very pleased with the battery installation that Whidbey Sun & Wind completed last month. The battery addition was an add on to the solar installation they performed five years ago. Both of these installations were performed professionally and quickly. The workmanship and quality are best in class. The fact that we used them for our battery installation supports our high rating and our recommendation to use them for your alternative energy needs. From the project manager to the installers, they are personable, knowledgeable and willing to answer any questions you have about the project, the system and operation.
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Glenn, over 1 month
We are very pleased with the battery installation that Whidbey Sun & Wind completed last month. The battery addition was an add on to the solar installation they performed five years ago. Both of these installations were performed professionally and quickly. The workmanship and quality are best in class. The fact that we used them for our battery installation supports our high rating and our recommendation to use them for your alternative energy needs. From the project manager to the installers, they are personable, knowledgeable and willing to answer any questions you have about the project, the system and operation.
4.79 105 Reviews
Jud, over 1 month
Out of the three bids for solar installation, we found A&R best aligned not only with our hopes for the project, but also with our values (employee-ownership, socially responsible). We found the drop-box of project photos and information after completion to be very helpful. We are also very happy with the installation now that we're live. We would absolutely recommend A&R.
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Average cost (5kW system)
$14,750 ($2.95 per watt)
Jud, over 1 month
Out of the three bids for solar installation, we found A&R best aligned not only with our hopes for the project, but also with our values (employee-ownership, socially responsible). We found the drop-box of project photos and information after completion to be very helpful. We are also very happy with the installation now that we're live. We would absolutely recommend A&R.
4.79 130 Reviews
Becca G, over 1 month
My partner and I had been considering solar for a while. I did a lot of research into several different companies and decided to go with Power Trip for several reasons. For starters, they actually came out and looked at the property, rather than just using a computer generated model. Further, they answered all my questions promptly and were honest and fair in their quotes. The system has been stellar since we had it installed in August 2022. Now that we're considering an extension to our array, we'll definitely be going with Power Trip again.
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Becca G, over 1 month
My partner and I had been considering solar for a while. I did a lot of research into several different companies and decided to go with Power Trip for several reasons. For starters, they actually came out and looked at the property, rather than just using a computer generated model. Further, they answered all my questions promptly and were honest and fair in their quotes. The system has been stellar since we had it installed in August 2022. Now that we're considering an extension to our array, we'll definitely be going with Power Trip again.
4.74 130 Reviews
Joe Springer, 6 days ago
I had 3 solar outfits bid the job. One national outfit was astronomically more and Fire Mountain and the other were almost exactly the same. I decided to go local, and I’m glad I did. We have had a bunch of contractors and vendors at our house as we try to rehab it and I’ve grown used to unresponsiveness, delays, excuses, and unclear bids. Fire Mountain has been the one exception. They were responsive and helpful, there were no overruns. They ended up having an earlier opening and said they had a 3 day window where they could fit us in. I thought to myself “3 days” for a pretty large solar project, this is gonna drag on. Sure enough they banged it out in 3 days, left no mess, and even after the inspection they were out the next day to square away the small things the inspector wanted. In the last year I have had plumbers, HVAC, builders, electricians, landscapers, fence guys, etc at our house and Fire Mountain was not only the best experience, but probably the best in every category (responsiveness, timeliness, cost, professionalism, etc). I don’t do a lot of 5 star reviews but this is an easy one.
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Joe Springer, 6 days ago
I had 3 solar outfits bid the job. One national outfit was astronomically more and Fire Mountain and the other were almost exactly the same. I decided to go local, and I’m glad I did. We have had a bunch of contractors and vendors at our house as we try to rehab it and I’ve grown used to unresponsiveness, delays, excuses, and unclear bids. Fire Mountain has been the one exception. They were responsive and helpful, there were no overruns. They ended up having an earlier opening and said they had a 3 day window where they could fit us in. I thought to myself “3 days” for a pretty large solar project, this is gonna drag on. Sure enough they banged it out in 3 days, left no mess, and even after the inspection they were out the next day to square away the small things the inspector wanted. In the last year I have had plumbers, HVAC, builders, electricians, landscapers, fence guys, etc at our house and Fire Mountain was not only the best experience, but probably the best in every category (responsiveness, timeliness, cost, professionalism, etc). I don’t do a lot of 5 star reviews but this is an easy one.
4.74 113 Reviews
David D, over 1 month
This group is amazing. I interviewed 5 different groups and chose them since their personal process of identifying your solar needs, inspecting your roof for adequate accommodation for solar, determining how many panels you need and the type of panels, just to name a few, made installing panels made good sense and ease. They are also locally owned and operated. They follow up also for any concerns and monitor your system up to 25 yrs so you really develop a Longterm relationship with them. They have been great to work with and recommend them highly !
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David D, over 1 month
This group is amazing. I interviewed 5 different groups and chose them since their personal process of identifying your solar needs, inspecting your roof for adequate accommodation for solar, determining how many panels you need and the type of panels, just to name a few, made installing panels made good sense and ease. They are also locally owned and operated. They follow up also for any concerns and monitor your system up to 25 yrs so you really develop a Longterm relationship with them. They have been great to work with and recommend them highly !
4.65 62 Reviews
Barrett Anderson, over 1 month
Nick and his team went above and beyond, making sure everything was correct, even cleaning up the patio they had worked in after finishing the project.
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Barrett Anderson, over 1 month
Nick and his team went above and beyond, making sure everything was correct, even cleaning up the patio they had worked in after finishing the project.
4.63 49 Reviews
Anonymous, over 1 month
Ground mount of 36 panel Washington made system with e gauge monitor. Been watching daily through the winter months and we are producing about 1/2 of our power needs, and the best is just beginning! Highly recommend the e gauge monitor (extra 600$) can watch daily production on I pad, see where your use is greatest and what kinds of days are best. Can break out stats from 10 minute intervals up to monthly,yearly. It has really made us aware of what and when we use the most (Water heater ). Totally satisfied with all aspects of South Sound Solar, before,during and after instal. Looking forward to great production this Summer.
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Anonymous, over 1 month
Ground mount of 36 panel Washington made system with e gauge monitor. Been watching daily through the winter months and we are producing about 1/2 of our power needs, and the best is just beginning! Highly recommend the e gauge monitor (extra 600$) can watch daily production on I pad, see where your use is greatest and what kinds of days are best. Can break out stats from 10 minute intervals up to monthly,yearly. It has really made us aware of what and when we use the most (Water heater ). Totally satisfied with all aspects of South Sound Solar, before,during and after instal. Looking forward to great production this Summer.
4.61 26 Reviews
Anonymous, over 1 month
OK, it wasn't a solar job but a backup for my whole house using a propane powered generator. They were on time, did a fantastic job, and did a super clean install. I can't say enough good about them. Hard to believe they are electricians because they show up prepared and get the job done quickly and efficiently. I just wish they also did work where my other homes are located, they are that good.
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Anonymous, over 1 month
OK, it wasn't a solar job but a backup for my whole house using a propane powered generator. They were on time, did a fantastic job, and did a super clean install. I can't say enough good about them. Hard to believe they are electricians because they show up prepared and get the job done quickly and efficiently. I just wish they also did work where my other homes are located, they are that good.
4.59 29 Reviews
Gopal, over 1 month
My recent collaboration with Sun Path Solar on solar panel installation, was truly beyond my expectations. Not only did the team, led by Kristy and Sonja, provide exceptional customer service, but their depth of knowledge and professionalism were also evident throughout the project. They ensured all my questions were answered in full detail, maintaining clear and consistent communication from start to finish. A noteworthy moment was when one of the installers went above and beyond by assisting me with a garage door issue, a gesture of service that really stood out. Additionally, a month after the project completion, when I reached out with a question regarding the Enphase app, Kristy was incredibly helpful in providing the assistance I needed. For anyone considering solar energy solutions, Sun Path Solar comes highly recommended.
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Gopal, over 1 month
My recent collaboration with Sun Path Solar on solar panel installation, was truly beyond my expectations. Not only did the team, led by Kristy and Sonja, provide exceptional customer service, but their depth of knowledge and professionalism were also evident throughout the project. They ensured all my questions were answered in full detail, maintaining clear and consistent communication from start to finish. A noteworthy moment was when one of the installers went above and beyond by assisting me with a garage door issue, a gesture of service that really stood out. Additionally, a month after the project completion, when I reached out with a question regarding the Enphase app, Kristy was incredibly helpful in providing the assistance I needed. For anyone considering solar energy solutions, Sun Path Solar comes highly recommended.
4.56 118 Reviews
Rad, 1 week ago
From my personal experience with pure light power is absolute horrendous! I would not recommend this company to anybody. They act like they're a fly-by-night operation. The communication is awful. Nobody knows anything and nobody can ever do anything but give you the runaround. Not to mention I've sent other people there while I was getting mine installed which I totally regret. Not said my worst enemy there!
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Rad, 1 week ago
From my personal experience with pure light power is absolute horrendous! I would not recommend this company to anybody. They act like they're a fly-by-night operation. The communication is awful. Nobody knows anything and nobody can ever do anything but give you the runaround. Not to mention I've sent other people there while I was getting mine installed which I totally regret. Not said my worst enemy there!
For more information about going solar near where you live, check out the following resources:
Clark Public Utility Solar Loan Program - Low interest loans to finance solar projects up to $30,000
Chelan County Sustainable Natural Alternative Power Program (SNAP) - Pooled utility bill savings for power producers.