The Truth About Solar in Washington State
We get asked the question this question a lot. The short answer is yes! Washington solar panels are worth it in Washington state for the average Washington resident. The long summer days in Washington have the potential to make up for the dreary winter days in terms of energy collection.
Especially when you factor in Washington state solar incentives and other rebates, adding a solar system can help you save significant amounts of money throughout the year.
Is Solar Worth The Cost?
The average gross cost of installing a standard 5kW solar energy system in Washington is just over $14,000, although with various incentives applied, this cost can drop dramatically. On average, the payback period for installing a solar energy system is about 9.4 years, and the average 20-year savings are over $17,600.
There are also increasingly attractive financing options becoming available as solar panels and renewable energy gain popularity and mainstream acceptance. Financing a solar energy system and making your payments on time can also help boost your credit score, which will help you in the long term as well. Contact us to learn more about financing
Federal Solar Tax Credit: A Valuable Incentive
The federal government offers a valuable tax credit to help make solar energy more affordable. This incentive, known as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), allows you to deduct a percentage of your solar installation costs from your federal taxes.
For solar systems installed in 2024, the tax credit rate is 30%. This means you can claim 30% of the total cost of your system as a credit on your federal income tax return. While the federal solar tax credit is a significant incentive, it’s important to note that it is subject to change.
Sales Tax Exemption on Solar Installs
Since July 1, 2019, all solar energy equipment for systems smaller than 100kW is exempt from all state and local sales tax as well as any applicable use tax. The Washington State sales tax rate is currently 6.5% and depending on where exactly in Washington you live, the local tax could bump that rate up to between 7% and 10.5%. On an average-sized system costing $14,000 solar energy system, you could save up to nearly $1,500 in taxes with this exemption.
Net Metering
Net metering is an incredible way to save money on your energy bill. It works by allowing you to essentially sell any excess energy that your solar power system produces back to the grid. Your local utility company will install a special meter at your home that works both ways, so when your solar panels produce more energy than you can use during the long and sunny summer days, your meter will start to count backward as the energy flows back into the grid.
If you produce more than you use for the whole month, your utility account will be credited to reflect that, and you can use the credit against your bills during times of the year that your solar energy system does not produce as much energy as you need.
How net metering in Washington state works.
This system is especially beneficial in Washington, due to the relatively mild weather. Moderate summer temperatures mean that you will not need to run the air conditioning all day every day, which will help keep your energy consumption low as your energy production is high. Washington winters can be chilly, but not as cold as other parts of the country where heating bills can be extremely high.
Commercial ONLY Solar Incentives
For businesses, there are a few extra incentives available to you. They are the USDA REAP Grant and MACRS Accelerated Depreciation.
Is Solar Worth It To Cut Down Trees?
While it’s always unfortunate to cut down trees, sometimes it can be necessary to optimize your home or business for solar energy system installation. It’s important to weigh the benefits of keeping the tree, such as shade for keeping your home cool during the summer, privacy, sentimental attachment to the tree, and so forth, against the benefits of removing it.
Removing a tree can maximize the amount of sun that hits your roof or solar array, and that can boost your production significantly, which will, in turn, reduce your energy bills. However, remember to account for the cost of removing the tree as well, as that should always be done by a professional arborist.
At Sunbridge Solar, we offer free on-site evaluations of your property to help you determine the most cost-effective scenario, whether it’s removing the tree or leaving it in place. We can provide quotes for both scenarios, including the estimated energy output and savings.
Pros and Cons of Solar in Washington State
To make an informed decision about going solar, it’s essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a closer look:
Pros to Solar
- Reduced energy bills: Solar can significantly lower or even eliminate your monthly electricity costs. Imagine the freedom of generating your own power and reducing your reliance on the grid!
- Environmental benefits: By harnessing clean, renewable energy, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.
- Increased home value: Studies show that homes with solar panels sell faster and for a higher price than comparable homes without solar. It’s an investment that adds value to your property.
- Energy independence: Generate your own electricity and become less dependent on your utility company. Enjoy greater energy security and peace of mind.
- Incentives and rebates: Take advantage of various incentives, like the 30% federal tax credit, sales tax exemptions, and net metering, to make your solar investment even more affordable.
Cons to Solar
- Upfront cost: The initial investment in a solar energy system can be significant. However, with incentives, financing options, and the long-term savings on your energy bills, solar often pays for itself over time.
- Aesthetics: While modern solar panels are becoming sleeker and more aesthetically pleasing, some homeowners may still find them visually unappealing. At Sunbridge Solar, we prioritize attractive installations that blend seamlessly with your roof.
- Home suitability: Not all homes are ideal for solar. Factors like roof orientation, shading from trees or other structures, and available roof space can affect a system’s efficiency. We offer free consultations to assess your home’s solar potential and provide customized solutions.
Is Solar Worth The Benefits?
In the vast majority of cases, the benefits of installing a solar energy system at your Washington home or business handily outweigh the alternatives, for two main reasons:
Lock-In Energy Prices
By installing a solar energy system that’s tied to your local utility grid, you can lock in your current price of electricity. Each year, the cost of electricity rises by an average of 3.75%, so locking in your energy rate now will keep your costs consistent for years to come and save you money.
Reliable Renewable Energy
Solar is also reliable renewable energy, so as long as the sun continues to shine, you will have a free and unlimited supply of clean energy that is good for the environment and will never be depleted.
Is Solar a Good Investment in Washington State?
Absolutely! While Washington may not be the sunniest state, it receives ample sunlight to make solar a smart investment. With rising energy costs, solar can help you save money on your electric bills while reducing your carbon footprint. Plus, various incentives are available to make solar even more affordable.
Is Solar Power Worth it in WA?
Yes, solar power is worth it in WA. Besides the financial benefits of lower energy bills, solar increases your property value and provides energy independence. It’s a clean and sustainable way to power your home or business.
Does Solar Make Sense in the Pacific Northwest?
Even with the Pacific Northwest’s cloudy reputation, solar makes excellent sense. Modern solar panels are highly efficient and can generate power even in diffuse sunlight. Plus, the region’s commitment to renewable energy means there are often excellent incentives available.
Is There a Downside to Having Solar?
While solar offers numerous benefits, there are a few potential downsides to consider:
- Upfront cost: The initial investment in a solar energy system can be significant, though incentives and financing can help.
- Aesthetics: Some people may find solar panels visually unappealing, though modern panels are becoming more sleek and aesthetically pleasing.
- Home suitability: Not all homes are ideal for solar. Factors like roof orientation, shading, and roof size can affect efficiency.
How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
Solar panels are built to be durable and long-lasting. Most panels come with warranties of 25 years or more, and with proper maintenance, they can continue to generate clean energy for decades.
Is Solar Worth It If You Have Gas?
Even if your home uses gas for heating or other appliances, solar can still be a worthwhile investment. By generating your own electricity, you can reduce or eliminate your electric bills and decrease your overall energy costs.
So, Is Solar Worth It in Washington State?
Yes, solar panels are generally a worthwhile investment in Washington State. Despite the cloudy reputation, Washington receives enough sunlight to make solar an effective way to reduce your energy bills, increase your property value, and contribute to a cleaner environment.
Here’s why:
- Long summer days: Washington’s long summer days provide ample sunshine to generate significant solar energy.
- Incentives: Washington offers various incentives, including a sales tax exemption, net metering, and potential property tax exemptions.
- Financial benefits: Solar can lead to significant long-term savings on your energy bills, with an average payback period of around 9.4 years.
- Reliable and renewable energy: Solar provides a consistent and sustainable energy source that’s good for the environment.
Factors to consider:
- Upfront cost: The initial investment in solar can be significant, but incentives and financing options are available.
- Home suitability: Not all homes are ideal for solar. Consider factors like roof orientation, shading, and roof size.
Ready to Learn More?
Contact Sunbridge Solar today for a free consultation and let our experts help you determine if solar is the right choice for your home or business in Washington State.
