Solar Panel Cost Guide in Washington, UT (2024 Update)
- Washington Solar Installation Cost: $11,097
- 25-Year Savings: $13,172
- Payback Period: 12.5 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Washington
We go over average solar pricing in Washington.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Washington, the typical cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.The average Washington homeowner needs a 4.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,097 with the federal tax credit, or $15,869 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Washington based on several factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually rewarding, with a net average savings of about $18,000 over 20 years on power bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar panel company in Washington for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Washington
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,130 |
| 3 years | $-8,195 |
| 5 years | $-6,260 |
| 7 years | $-4,326 |
| 9 years | $-2,391 |
| 11 years | $-457 |
| 13 years | $1,478 |
| 15 years | $3,413 |
| 17 years | $5,347 |
| 19 years | $7,282 |
| 21 years | $9,216 |
| 23 years | $11,151 |
| 25 years | $13,086 |
Top Solar Installers in Washington
When going solar, many homeowners prefer to use a solar company since putting up a solar system yourself can be a difficult project. Plus, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar, opting for a solar company can help with that as well. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on solar panel installation and sometimes even information on local incentives, rebates and net metering programs.
Working with a vetted solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Outstanding Local Installer
ES Solar
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Lifetime workmanship warranty
- Outstanding customer service
- No leases or PPAs
- Energy audits only available 12 months after installation
See all of the solar companies in Washington
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Washington
There are many factors that can determine your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it’s important to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.The model of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will significantly impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more expensive. Furthermore, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to decide on the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when searching for a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is out of reach, solar loans are a solid route because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you pick will impact your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in Washington have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.42 | $14,371 | $13,286 | 13.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.36 | $18,792 | $18,084 | 12.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.29 | $23,030 | $23,065 | 12.5 years |
| 12 kW | $3.22 | $27,083 | $28,231 | 12.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.16 | $30,952 | $33,581 | 12.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.09 | $34,637 | $39,115 | 11.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.03 | $38,138 | $44,834 | 11.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.96 | $41,454 | $50,737 | 11.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies available in Washington, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have various brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Outstanding Local Installer
ES Solar
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Lifetime workmanship warranty
- Outstanding customer service
- No leases or PPAs
- Energy audits only available 12 months after installation
EcoWatch's Washington, UT Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Washington?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $16,450 for a 5-kW system and $32,900 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Washington?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.
Does Washington have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.