Solar Panels in Washington D.C.2026 Cost Guide & Incentives
Average cost, state incentives, payback estimates, and how to find certified installers in Washington D.C..
$19,000–$32,000
Avg system cost
$13,300–$22,400
After 30% ITC
4.4 hrs/day
Peak sun hours
$0.186/kWh
Avg rate
Is Solar Worth It in Washington D.C.?
Based on a home with a $150/month electric bill in Washington D.C.
Est. system size
5.5 kW
Gross cost
$16,077
Federal tax credit
−$4,823
Net cost
$11,254
Year-1 savings
$1,800
20-year savings
$45,911
Estimated payback: 6.3 years — then 13 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 D.C. Solar Incentives & Policies
Federal
Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30%
of total system cost — off your federal tax bill
Available through 2032
Washington D.C. State
State Incentive
SREC-II program + property & sales tax exemptions
Additional Washington D.C. 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 D.C. by System Size
| System size | Gross cost | After 30% ITC | Year-1 savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $12,272,800 | $8,590,960 | $1,374,094/yr |
| 7 kW | $17,181,920 | $12,027,344 | $1,923,731/yr |
| 9 kW | $22,091,040 | $15,463,728 | $2,473,368/yr |
| 12 kW | $29,454,720 | $20,618,304 | $3,297,825/yr |
* Costs based on $2.90/W national average. Washington D.C. installer pricing may vary ±15%.
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Frequently Asked Questions — Solar in Washington D.C.
How much do solar panels cost in Washington D.C.?
Solar installation in Washington D.C. typically costs $19,000–$32,000 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit, most homeowners pay $13,300–$22,400 net.
Is solar worth it in Washington D.C.?
Yes — Washington D.C. homeowners benefit from 4.4 average peak sun hours per day and relatively high electricity rates ($0.186/kWh). The 30% federal ITC combined with srec-ii program + property & sales tax exemptions make the financial case strong for most homeowners.
What state incentives are available for solar in Washington D.C.?
SREC-II program + property & sales tax exemptions. On top of state incentives, all Washington D.C. 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 D.C.?
Based on Washington D.C.'s average electricity rate of $0.186/kWh and 4.4 peak sun hours, most homeowners see payback in 6.3–9 years. Systems then produce free electricity for 15–20+ more years.
Does Washington D.C. have net metering?
Yes — Washington D.C. 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.