2024 Solar Panels Washington State Guide

Solar Panels Washington Explained

Despite being known for rain, Washington is actually an excellent state for solar energy systems. Washington has some of the best solar incentives in the country, and the long sunny summer days mean that solar energy is actually very practical.

In this article, we’ll take a look at how solar in Washington state actually works, how a home solar energy system can benefit you, and how many panels you might need to install.

How Does Solar in Washington state Work?

There are actually two different types of solar panels: photovoltaic (PV), which produces solar electricity, and thermal, which produces heat. In this article, we will be focusing solely on photovoltaic panels.

A solar panel is made up of many individual solar cells, which are grouped together into a frame to create one panel. On the roof of a house, there are often many panels connected together, which makes up a solar array. When that array is then connected to an inverter and then to your home’s wiring, it creates a solar energy system.

Other elements that may be part of the system include battery banks, charge controllers, and so forth that allow you to store the energy your panels produce for later use.

Basically, solar panels are made up of silicon layers with positively and negatively charged elements like phosphorus and boron embedded within, which create an electrical field. When photons from the sun’s rays hit the panels, electrons are knocked free from atoms within the panels, generating an electrical current.

Grid-Tied vs. Off-Grid Solar Systems: A Detailed Comparison

Choosing the right solar system for your home is a crucial step in your journey toward energy independence. Let’s explore the key differences between grid-tied and off-grid systems to help you make an informed decision:

Grid-Tied Systems: Connected and Convenient

Grid-tied systems are the most common choice for homeowners in Washington. They seamlessly integrate with your existing electrical system, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of solar energy while maintaining a connection to the utility grid.

• How They Work: Your solar panels generate electricity during the day, which is used to power your home. Any excess energy is sent back to the grid through a process called net metering, earning you credits on your electricity bill. When your panels aren’t producing enough energy, such as at night or on cloudy days, you draw power from the grid as needed.
• Advantages: Grid-tied systems offer a range of benefits, including lower upfront costs, reduced energy bills, and a reliable power supply. They also simplify the transition to solar, as you don’t need to worry about battery storage or complex energy management.
• Considerations: While grid-tied systems are generally the most practical option, it’s important to be aware of their reliance on the grid. During power outages, your system may also shut down, unless you have a battery backup system in place. Additionally, net metering policies can vary and may be subject to change in the future.

Off-Grid Systems: Embrace Energy Independence

Off-grid systems provide complete energy autonomy, freeing you from reliance on the utility grid. These systems are ideal for remote locations or for homeowners seeking maximum energy independence.

• Components and Operation: Off-grid systems consist of solar panels, batteries, and a charge controller. The solar panels generate electricity during the day, which is used to charge the batteries. The batteries store the energy for use when the sun isn’t shining, providing a continuous power supply.
• Benefits: Off-grid systems offer unparalleled energy independence and resilience. You’ll be protected from power outages and grid instability, and you’ll have complete control over your energy production and consumption.
• Challenges: Off-grid systems require careful planning and management. You’ll need to accurately assess your energy needs and ensure your battery bank has sufficient capacity to meet those needs, even during extended periods of low sunlight. The initial investment for off-grid systems is also typically higher due to the cost of batteries and other components.

Making the Right Choice

At Sunbridge Solar, we’re committed to helping you find the perfect solar solution for your home and lifestyle. Our experts will assess your energy usage, property characteristics, and budget to recommend the most suitable system for your needs. We’ll guide you through the entire process, from system design and installation to ongoing maintenance and support. Contact us today for a free quote.

Are Solar Panels efficient in WA?

There are several factors that impact the efficiency of a solar panel. Let’s look at the four most important factors. They are:

Sunlight

The amount of sunlight that hits the panel has an obvious impact on how much electricity will be produced. Naturally, the number of sunlight hours the panel receives each day will vary based on the season and the weather, since there are many more daylight hours and generally sunnier days in Washington summers, while the winter days are often short and dark. However, solar panels have advanced technology that allows them to produce energy even from indirect sunlight on overcast or cloudy days.

Temperature

The average temperature of the panel’s location also affects the efficiency. Solar panels actually become less efficient the hotter it is. Every different type of panel has a temperature coefficient rating that tells you what percentage of power generation loss you can expect for each degree Celsius above 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit).

Luckily, Washington has a moderate climate for the most part, so your panel efficiency will not be too badly affected.

Type of Solar Panel

Different types of solar panels have different efficiency ratings straight from the manufacturer. Most panels are rated between 15-20%, although some newer panels are now rated as high as 22%. As the technology continues to improve, the percentage will only go up.

Angle and Orientation

The angle at which your solar panels are mounted has a big impact on how well they produce as well. Solar panels are most efficient when the sun hits them straight on, with the sunlight at a perpendicular 90-degree angle from the surface of the panels.

Here in Washington state, we are quite far north relative to the equator, so even during the summer, panels should be angled around 30 degrees to the south for optimal efficiency, and angled even steeper in the winter. This is most often achieved by mounting solar panels on a south-facing pitched roof.

How Many Solar Panels Do You Need?

The number of solar panels you need to power your home varies based on the size of your household and the amount of electricity you consume. The best way to determine how many panels you need is to assess your electricity consumption at different times of the year and then find the average amount in kilowatts.

Once you’ve found your ideal number of kilowatts, you can cross-reference that number with your roof’s space capacity for solar panels and the number of sunshine hours that the panels will receive throughout the day and year.

Generally, each kilowatt worth of solar panels will require about 100 square feet of south-facing pitched roof space. As a point of reference, most residential solar energy systems are between 4 kW and 10 kW in order to offset the majority of the home’s consumption.

Read More: How Do Solar Panels Work?

How to Achieve 100% Energy Offset with Solar

Want to completely eliminate your electric bills and embrace energy independence? Here’s how to achieve a 100% offset with solar:

1. Evaluate Your Energy Consumption: Start by analyzing your monthly electricity usage. This will give you a baseline for determining the size of your solar system.
2. Assess Your Roof’s Capacity: Next, determine how much of your energy consumption you can realistically cover with solar. Consider your roof’s size, orientation (ideally south-facing), and any shading that might affect solar production. In general, each kilowatt (kW) of solar panels requires about 100 square feet of roof space.
3. Factor in Sunshine Hours: The amount of sunlight your roof receives also plays a crucial role. Our solar experts can assess your property’s solar potential and recommend the optimal system size.
4. Consider Battery Backup: To achieve a true 100% offset, especially during nighttime hours or periods of low sunlight, you’ll need a battery backup system. This allows you to store excess solar energy generated during the day and use it when your panels aren’t producing power.
5. System Sizing: Residential solar systems typically range from 4 kW to 10 kW to generate enough electricity to cover 100% of a home’s energy needs. This translates to roughly 13 to 33 solar panels, depending on their efficiency and your energy consumption.

At Sunbridge Solar, we specialize in designing and installing comprehensive solar solutions, including battery backup systems, to help you achieve your energy goals. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you customize a system that meets your needs and maximizes your energy savings.

Is It Worth Getting Cheap Or Free Solar Panels?

Generally, no. Free and lower-quality solar panels are not worth it. High-quality solar panels will last much longer than cheap ones and they will be more efficient. Solar panels are getting more affordable each year and when you apply solar incentives, the initial investment can actually be quite reasonable, even for high-quality panels.

There are many different solar incentives that you can take advantage of in Washington, including the Federal Investment Tax Credit that allows you to deduct 30% of the total solar panel installation cost from your federal tax liability, net metering, sales and use tax exemption, solar grants, and the Washington State Renewable Energy System Incentive. 

Available WA Solar Rebates & Incentives

Washington State offers attractive incentives to make going solar a smart investment for homeowners and businesses. Here are some of the key programs you can benefit from:

• Federal Solar Tax Credit: This federal incentive allows you to deduct 30% of the cost of your solar panel system from your federal taxes. It’s a significant credit that can substantially reduce your upfront investment in solar.
• Sales Tax Exemption: In Washington, solar energy systems are exempt from sales tax. This exemption applies to both residential and commercial solar installations, further lowering the overall cost of going solar.
• WA Net Energy Metering: Washington’s net metering program enables you to receive credits on your electric bill for any excess solar power your system sends back to the grid. This means you can effectively “bank” your solar energy and use it when you need it most, maximizing your savings.
• USDA REAP Grants for Large Solar Farms: For larger-scale solar projects, the USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) offers grants to agricultural producers and rural small businesses. These grants can help offset the costs of installing and developing solar farms, making them more financially feasible.

At Sunbridge Solar, we’re experts in navigating the world of solar incentives. We’ll help you understand which incentives you qualify for and ensure you maximize your savings when you make the switch to clean, affordable solar energy.

Why Choose Sunbridge Solar

Sunbridge Solar stands out as a leading solar installer in Washington State. We believe everyone should have access to clean, affordable solar energy, and we’re passionate about helping homeowners and businesses make the switch.

Our Commitment to Quality

• Expert Team: Our team comprises highly skilled and experienced solar professionals dedicated to guiding you through your solar journey.
• Customized Solutions: We work closely with you to design and install a solar panel system that perfectly aligns with your energy needs, budget, and property.
• Customer Satisfaction: Your satisfaction is our priority. We provide ongoing support, including system monitoring, maintenance, and prompt answers to your questions.

Transparency and Trust

We believe in open and honest communication. We’ll provide you with comprehensive information about solar energy, including its benefits and drawbacks, and guide you through the available incentives in Washington State.

Washington State’s Trusted Solar Installer

Sunbridge Solar is your reliable partner for solar installation in Washington State. We’re dedicated to providing exceptional customer care and premium solar solutions tailored to your unique needs. Choose Sunbridge Solar for a smooth, hassle-free solar experience and a brighter, more sustainable future.

Cost of Solar Panels

Making the transition to solar energy is a significant decision, and Sunbridge Solar is here to simplify the process for you. As Washington State’s trusted solar installer, we’re committed to providing top-tier service and customized solar solutions for homeowners and businesses alike.

Why Choose Solar?

• Lower Energy Bills: Significantly reduce or eliminate your monthly electricity expenses.
• Environmental Responsibility: Minimize your carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment.
• Increase Property Value: Solar panels can enhance the value of your home or business.
• Energy Independence: Gain greater control over your energy production and reduce reliance on traditional power grids.

Ready to Get Started?

Ready to harness the power of the sun? Contact Sunbridge Solar today for a free consultation and quote! Call us at 360-313-7190 or fill out our online form. We’ll gladly answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you take the first step towards a brighter, more sustainable future.

WA Solar Incentive FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about incentives and going solar: