The Complete Guide to Washington Solar Incentives
Updated October 4, 2024 | 7 min read
Are you considering solar panels in Washington State? With more than 250+ sunny days per year and some of the top solar incentives in the US. It's no wonder why so many are switching to solar in The Evergreen State!
In this article, we'll explain the top solar incentives & local programs available to Washington State home & business owners.
Read on to learn more or enter your zip code below to see exactly which solar incentives & programs your home qualifies for!
Enter your zip code to see which Washington Solar Incentives you qualify for!
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What Are Washington Solar Incentives?
Solar incentives are implemented in Washington State to encourage the adoption of solar panels energy system, making them more affordable and accessible. These incentives include tax credits, rebates, grants, and net metering programs, helping homeowners and businesses reduce upfront costs and accelerate their return on investment. Some solar programs even help to install solar panels for free in Washington State!
Here are the top solar incentives in Washington State. If you wish to see which solar incentives your home qualifies for, start here to get a free Solar Savings Quote for Washington State!
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), also known as the Green Energy Tax Credit, offers significant benefits to Washington residents. This incentive, provided by the U.S. federal government, allows homeowners and businesses in Washington to significantly reduce the installation cost of solar energy systems.
By utilizing the federal solar tax credit, Washingtonians can claim a tax credit of 30% of the total solar cost, making solar power more affordable and supporting the transition to clean, renewable energy. This incentive demonstrates Washington's commitment to sustainability and empowering its residents to embrace solar energy.
Solar Net Energy Metering (NEM)
Solar net metering in Washington State is a program that allows solar system owners to receive credits for the excess electricity they generate and send back to the grid. When a solar panels installation produces more energy than is being consumed on-site, the surplus electricity is fed into the utility grid, and the owner receives credits for the amount contributed. These credits can then be used to offset future electricity bills, effectively reducing overall energy costs.
Additionally, under Washington's net metering program, solar owners have the potential to make extra money by earning a financial return on the excess energy they generate. By selling this surplus electricity to the utility company at the prevailing retail rate, solar owners can receive compensation, potentially resulting in a net zero or even a positive energy bill. This program incentivizes solar energy production, encourages energy independence, and allows solar owners to maximize the financial benefits of their solar investment in Washington State.
Solar Sales Tax in Washington
In Washington State, there is a sales tax exemption for qualifying solar equipment. This exemption applies to solar panels energy systems smaller than 100 kilowatts, which are exempt from state and local sales and use taxes. The exemption has been in effect since July 2019 and will continue until December 2029. For larger solar energy systems between 101 and 500 kilowatts, a 50 percent tax exemption is available. These exemptions aim to make solar installations more affordable, reduce upfront costs, and incentivize the adoption of solar panels energy systems in Washington State.
Washington Community Solar Program
The Washington Community Solar Program offers an accessible way for residents and businesses unable to install solar panels on their property to still benefit from solar energy.
By subscribing to a share of a local community solar project, participants receive credits on their electricity bills for the solar energy generated, reducing their overall energy costs and supporting local renewable energy development.
This program eliminates the need for rooftop installations, upfront costs, or maintenance, making solar energy accessible to a wider range of individuals and contributing to
Enter your zip code to see which WA Solar Incentives you qualify for!
Do I Qualify?
Please enter a zip code
Going Solar in Washington State
Washington State offers a favorable environment for solar energy with its ample sunshine and suitable climate. Embracing solar power allows residents and businesses to diminish their dependence on conventional energy sources, leading to significant savings on electricity expenses while promoting a sustainable environment.
With a range of solar incentives and programs in place, transitioning to solar in Washington State not only brings financial advantages but also demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship and a greener future.
Start the switch to solar today and explore all of your solar options with a Solar Savings Quote from EcoGen America, Washington's top rated solar energy company.
Make the switch to solar and start saving!
Contact our team of local solar advisors and see how much you can save on your electricity bill.
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