Washington Solar Guide 2026
Everything Washington homeowners need to know: costs, incentives, net metering policy, and what makes this state unique for solar.
Key fact about Washington solar
Washington has the lowest electricity rates in the continental US (~$0.10/kWh) due to abundant hydropower. Solar payback is long (~14 years) — the economics improve significantly with EV charging or heat pumps added.
Peak sun hours
3.9
hrs/day avg
Avg electricity rate
10.0¢
per kWh
Median install cost
$2.9/W
before incentives
Typical payback
14 yrs
8 kW system, avg usage
Typical 8 kW system in Washington
Annual production
11,388 kWh
Year-1 savings
$1,139
System cost (est.)
$23,200
No federal tax credit — Section 25D expired December 31, 2025.
Washington Net Metering Policy
Full retail net metering (Engrossed Senate Bill 5116)
Washington requires full retail net metering. Low electricity rates (~$0.10/kWh) significantly extend payback periods, making WA one of the tougher economic cases for solar despite good policy.
Washington Solar Incentives
Available in addition to any utility rebates. Federal 25D credit is $0 for homeowner-owned systems from 2026.
- ✓Sales tax exemption on solar systems
- ✓Property tax exemption
- ✓Utility incentive programs (check local utility)
Top Utilities in Washington
Interconnection timeline: 4–10 weeks
Calculate your Washington solar economics
Our calculators are pre-filled with Washington data. Run any tool below.