Solar Panel Savings in Spokane, WA
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Spokane, Washington. Based on 3.1 peak sun hours/day and 10.3¢/kWh average electricity rate.
3.1
Peak Sun Hours/Day
10.3¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
20.6 yr
Payback Period
$2k
25-Year Savings
Spokane Solar Overview
Calculate Your Spokane Solar Savings
Spokane average: $122/mo
South-facing roofs produce the most energy
Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup
Annual Production
kWh/year
Annual Savings
per year
Net System Cost
after 30% ITC
Payback Period
break-even time
25-Year Total Savings
$19,060
Monthly Savings
$47
Federal Tax Credit
$4,932
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Spokane | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $16,440 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$4,932 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $11,508 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $2.74/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Spokane
Sun Hours vs National Average
Spokane gets 31% less sun than the national average, but high-efficiency panels compensate.
Climate Advantages
- 160 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 50.6°F — cooler temps actually improve panel efficiency
- Average roof size: 1,847 sq ft — enough for a 102-panel system
Spokane Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $16,440 system, that's a $4,932 credit. Valid through 2032.
Washington State Incentives
Washington sales tax exemption for solar; net metering at retail rate.
Net Metering — Avista Utilities
Avista Utilities offers net metering in Spokane. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Spokane
2.3
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
37
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.5
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 5,431 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 Spokane, Washington
Spokane, Washington receives an average of 3.1 peak sun hours per day, which, while below the national average, still makes solar a viable option with modern high-efficiency panels. With electricity rates averaging 10.3¢ per kWh from Avista Utilities, below the national average, but with rates rising 2-3% annually, the long-term savings are still meaningful.
A typical 6kW solar system in Spokane produces approximately 5,431 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $558 annually. The system pays for itself in about 20.6 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 4+ years of the system's warranty life.
Spokane has a solar penetration rate of 1.7% — indicating early-stage solar adoption with tremendous growth potential as prices continue to fall. The cost of living index of 107 (national average: 100) is near the national average.
Other Cities in Washington
Bellevue, WA
Everett, WA
Kennewick, WA
Olympia, WA
Seattle, WA
Tacoma, WA
Vancouver, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Spokane, WA?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Spokane is approximately $16,440 before incentives ($2.74/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $11,508. Washington sales tax exemption for solar; net metering at retail rate.
How many peak sun hours does Spokane get?
Spokane, WA receives an average of 3.1 peak sun hours per day and approximately 160 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 Spokane?
The average solar payback period in Spokane is approximately 20.6 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 $2,442.
Does Spokane have net metering?
Yes, Spokane has access to net metering through Avista Utilities. 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 Spokane, WA?
Solar can still be worthwhile in Spokane, especially with rising electricity rates. The 20.6-year payback means long-term savings of $2,442 over the system lifetime. The 30% federal tax credit and local incentives help make solar financially attractive.