Washington State may be known for its cloudy days, but it’s still a fantastic place to go solar. In fact, modern solar technology works efficiently even in overcast conditions, and Washington’s combination of incentives, utility programs, and long summer daylight hours makes solar an attractive investment for homeowners and businesses alike.
Solar in Washington’s Climate
Solar panels don’t require direct, blazing sunlight to produce energy — they work by converting light into electricity, even on cloudy days. While production is lower in winter, the long daylight hours of summer more than make up for it. Net metering ensures that any extra energy your panels generate in the sunny months can offset your usage in the darker months.
Key Incentives & Benefits
One of the biggest drivers for going solar in Washington is the federal solar tax credit, which currently allows you to deduct a significant percentage of your system cost from your federal taxes but will be expiring at the end of 2025. This can save thousands of dollars on your installation.
In addition, Washington has a sales tax exemption for solar energy systems up to a certain size, meaning you won’t pay sales tax on your purchase — another substantial savings. Some utilities in the evergreen state offer low-interest financing instead of cash rebates, making solar more accessible without large upfront costs.
Get Your Energy Independence
Net Metering Advantage
Washington’s net metering program allows you to send unused electricity back to the grid in exchange for credits on your bill. This is a powerful tool for lowering your annual energy costs and maximizing the value of your solar investment.
Financing Your Solar Project
Homeowners in Washington can finance solar through home equity loans, personal loans, or solar-specific loans. Our preferred partner, Atmos Financial, offers competitive rates and terms tailored for clean energy projects. By choosing Atmos, you not only finance your own energy independence but also support a bank dedicated to funding renewable energy instead of fossil fuels.
Return on Investment
The average payback period for solar in Washington ranges from 8 to 12 years, depending on your energy usage, financing, and incentives. Since panels often last 25 years or more, you can expect a decade or more of free electricity after your system pays for itself.
Going solar in Washington State isn’t just about saving on your electric bill — for many Washingtonians, it’s about energy independence, reducing carbon emissions and investing in long-term financial stability. With current incentives, net metering, and smart financing there has never been a better time to make the switch.