Going Solar in Washington: Unlock Savings with Attractive Incentives and Rebates
Investing in solar energy in Washington is a smart decision that can yield substantial savings for property owners. By generating your own electricity, you can significantly reduce your monthly utility bills. Additionally, Washington offers a range of solar incentives and rebates that make going solar even more attractive for residents of the Evergreen State.
Discover how you can take advantage of these benefits and make the switch to solar power in Washington!
Washington Solar Incentives, Rebates, and Benefits
Net Metering in Washington
Washington has favorable net metering laws that benefit solar system owners. The state requires investor-owned utilities (IOUs) such as Pacific Power & Light Corporation, Puget Sound Energy, and Avista to offer net metering. This system allows customers with renewable energy systems connected to the grid to offset their utility costs with credits earned from the excess energy produced. Essentially, you can sell your surplus electricity back to the utility company and receive credits on your electric bill.
Washington Interconnection Standards
To ensure a seamless integration of solar and other renewable energy systems into the grid, Washington has implemented interconnection standards. These guidelines facilitate the installation process, reduce costs, and enhance the reliability of net metering systems.
Performance-Based Incentives (PBI) in Washington
Washington offers Performance-Based Incentives (PBIs), also known as Solar Power Performance Payments, which are incentives based on the actual power your solar system generates. These payments are made in the form of Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs), whose value fluctuates based on supply and demand. SRECs can help offset the cost of your solar system over time.
Washington Solar Rebates
While Washington does not currently offer statewide rebates for solar energy systems, some companies, such as LG, may provide specific solar rebates to customers.
Washington Sales Tax Exemption
Property owners who invest in solar panel systems in Washington are exempt from paying sales tax, which can result in an immediate savings of approximately 8%. This exemption applies to solar systems that produce up to 100 kilowatts of AC electricity and is available until December 2029. A typical household can offset their entire energy consumption with a 5-kilowatt system, making this a valuable incentive to consider.
Washington Solar Easements and Rights Laws
Washington has solar easements and rights laws in place to protect property owners’ access to solar installation and ensure sufficient sunlight exposure. These laws prohibit developers from obstructing or denying a property owner’s right to install a solar energy system.
Don’t Forget About the Federal Tax Credit!
In addition to the great solar incentives, rebates, and exemptions offered in Washington, you may also qualify for the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). If you purchase a solar energy system (using cash or a loan), you can claim a tax credit currently worth 26% of the system cost, which can be deducted from your Federal income tax. However, this credit is not available if you lease the system, as all incentives go to the third-party owner in that case.
Washington Solar Incentives and Rebates at a Glance
Sustainable energy is thriving in the Evergreen State, and with the numerous benefits of producing your own energy source, going solar is a worthwhile investment. We highly recommend consulting with a reputable solar company to explore the optimal solutions for your solar journey in Washington.
