Solar Panel Savings in Bothell, WA

Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Bothell, Washington. Based on 3.9 peak sun hours/day and 9.7¢/kWh average electricity rate.

3.9

Peak Sun Hours/Day

9.7¢

Avg Rate (¢/kWh)

20.2 yr

Payback Period

$23k

25-Year Savings

Bothell Solar Overview

Population:49,325
Sunny Days/Year:147
Avg Temperature:51°F
Solar Penetration:3.7%
Utility Company:Puget Sound Energy
Net Metering:Available

Calculate Your Bothell Solar Savings

3 kW15 kW

Bothell average: $87/mo

South-facing roofs produce the most energy

Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup

Annual Production

6,833

kWh/year

Annual Savings

$663

per year

Net System Cost

$13,020

after 30% ITC

Payback Period

19.6 yr

break-even time

25-Year Total Savings

$22,647

Monthly Savings

$55

Federal Tax Credit

$5,580

Cumulative Savings vs System Cost

$0k$6k$12k$18k$24kYr 0Yr 5Yr 10Yr 15Yr 20Yr 25System CostBreak-even
Cumulative Savings System Cost

Cost Breakdown

ItemBothellNational Avg
Gross System Cost (6kW)$18,600$17,100
Federal Tax Credit (30%)-$5,580-$5,130
Net System Cost$13,020$11,970
Cost Per Watt$3.10/W$2.85/W

Solar Potential in Bothell

Sun Hours vs National Average

3.9 hrs
4.5 hrs

Bothell gets 13% less sun than the national average, but high-efficiency panels compensate.

Climate Advantages

  • 147 sunny days per year
  • Average temperature: 51°F — cooler temps actually improve panel efficiency
  • Average roof size: 1,706 sq ft — enough for a 94-panel system

Bothell Solar Incentives & Programs

Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $18,600 system, that's a $5,580 credit. Valid through 2032.

Washington State Incentives

Solar incentive payment program.

Net Metering — Puget Sound Energy

Puget Sound Energy offers net metering in Bothell. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.

Environmental Impact in Bothell

2.8

Tons CO2 Offset/Year

47

Equivalent Trees Planted

0.6

Homes Worth of Energy

Based on 6,833 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.

Solar Energy in Bothell, Washington

Bothell, Washington receives an average of 3.9 peak sun hours per day, offering adequate solar resources for homeowners looking to reduce their electricity bills. With electricity rates averaging 9.7¢ per kWh from Puget Sound Energy, below the national average, but with rates rising 2-3% annually, the long-term savings are still meaningful.

A typical 6kW solar system in Bothell produces approximately 6,833 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $663 annually. The system pays for itself in about 19.6 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 5+ years of the system's warranty life.

Bothell has a solar penetration rate of 3.7% — indicating early-stage solar adoption with tremendous growth potential as prices continue to fall. The cost of living index of 111.1 (national average: 100) means higher electricity costs, which amplifies solar savings.

Other Cities in Washington

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do solar panels cost in Bothell, WA?

The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Bothell is approximately $18,600 before incentives ($3.10/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $13,020. Solar incentive payment program.

How many peak sun hours does Bothell get?

Bothell, WA receives an average of 3.9 peak sun hours per day and approximately 147 sunny days per year. While below the national average, solar panels can still provide significant savings due to advancing panel technology.

What is the solar payback period in Bothell?

The average solar payback period in Bothell is approximately 20.2 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $22,647.

Does Bothell have net metering?

Yes, Bothell has access to net metering through Puget Sound Energy. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.

Is solar worth it in Bothell, WA?

Solar can still be worthwhile in Bothell, especially with rising electricity rates. The 20.2-year payback means long-term savings of $22,647 over the system lifetime. The 30% federal tax credit and local incentives help make solar financially attractive.

Related Calculators