Washington Solar Panel Savings Calculator

Washington Solar Panel Savings Overview

Washington receives an average of 3.5 peak sun hours per day, which is below the national average but still viable for solar installations. With electricity rates averaging 11.3¢ per kWh — below the national average — longer payback periods are typical but savings still add up over time. The typical Washington homeowner with a 6kW system can expect to save approximately $920 per year.

Solar Energy Production in Washington

A standard 6kW residential solar panel system in Washington produces approximately 6,132 kWh per year. This accounts for a system efficiency factor of 80%, which includes panel degradation, inverter losses, and temperature effects. While 3.5 peak sun hours is modest compared to sunbelt states, modern high-efficiency panels can still produce meaningful energy savings in Washington.

Washington Electricity Rates and Solar Context

The average residential electricity rate in Washington is 11.3¢ per kWh according to EIA data. While this rate is below the national average, electricity costs are rising approximately 2-3% per year. Over a 25-year system lifetime, your cumulative savings will still be substantial. With utility rates increasing annually, your solar savings grow each year.

Washington Solar Incentive Programs

Sales tax exemption. Net metering. Federal 30% ITC. All Washington residents are eligible for the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which reduces the cost of a solar system by 30% of the total installed price. Washington also offers full retail net metering, allowing homeowners to earn credits for excess solar energy sent back to the grid.

Net Metering in Washington

Washington has full retail net metering, which is a significant financial benefit for solar homeowners. Under full retail net metering, you receive credit at the full retail electricity rate for every kilowatt-hour of excess solar energy you export to the grid. This is the most favorable policy for solar homeowners.

Best Cities for Solar in Washington

The best cities for solar panels in Washington include Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Bellevue. Solar production can vary by location within the state due to differences in cloud cover, local shading, and microclimates. Southern-facing roofs with minimal shading produce the most energy. Homeowners in Seattle and Spokane can typically expect production close to the state average of 3.5 peak sun hours per day.

How Washington Compares to Neighboring States

Compared to neighboring states, Washington (11.3¢/kWh, 3.5 sun hours) receives less solar radiation but has similar electricity rates. See how solar savings compare in Oregon, and Idaho.