Solar Panels in Washington2026 Cost Guide & Incentives
Average cost, state incentives, payback estimates, and how to find certified installers in Washington.
$17,000–$29,000
Avg system cost
$11,900–$20,300
After 30% ITC
4 hrs/day
Peak sun hours
$0.103/kWh
Avg rate
Is Solar Worth It in Washington?
Based on a home with a $150/month electric bill in Washington
Est. system size
11 kW
Gross cost
$31,935
Federal tax credit
−$9,581
Net cost
$22,355
Year-1 savings
$1,800
20-year savings
$45,911
Estimated payback: 12.4 years — then 7 years of free electricity.
* Estimates assume $2.90/W installed, 92% solar offset, and 3% annual electricity rate inflation. Get an installer quote to confirm your actual savings.
Washington Solar Incentives & Policies
Federal
Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30%
of total system cost — off your federal tax bill
Available through 2032
Washington State
State Incentive
Sales tax exemption on solar equipment + net metering
Additional Washington Solar Policies
Net Metering: Available — excess energy credited to your bill
Property Tax Exemption: Solar system value exempt from property taxes
Sales Tax Exemption: Solar equipment exempt from state sales tax
Solar Installation Cost in Washington by System Size
| System size | Gross cost | After 30% ITC | Year-1 savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $12,272,800 | $8,590,960 | $691,748/yr |
| 7 kW | $17,181,920 | $12,027,344 | $968,447/yr |
| 9 kW | $22,091,040 | $15,463,728 | $1,245,146/yr |
| 12 kW | $29,454,720 | $20,618,304 | $1,660,195/yr |
* Costs based on $2.90/W national average. Washington installer pricing may vary ±15%.
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Frequently Asked Questions — Solar in Washington
How much do solar panels cost in Washington?
Solar installation in Washington typically costs $17,000–$29,000 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit, most homeowners pay $11,900–$20,300 net.
Is solar worth it in Washington?
Yes — Washington homeowners benefit from 4 average peak sun hours per day. The 30% federal ITC combined with sales tax exemption on solar equipment + net metering make the financial case strong for most homeowners.
What state incentives are available for solar in Washington?
Sales tax exemption on solar equipment + net metering. On top of state incentives, all Washington homeowners qualify for the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Your solar system is also exempt from property tax assessment. Solar equipment is exempt from sales tax in ${s.name}.
How long is the payback period for solar in Washington?
Based on Washington's average electricity rate of $0.103/kWh and 4 peak sun hours, most homeowners see payback in 12.4–17 years. Systems then produce free electricity for 15–20+ more years.
Does Washington have net metering?
Yes — Washington has a net metering policy that credits your utility bill for excess electricity your system sends back to the grid. This significantly improves your ROI.