Are Solar Panels Worth It in Washington? Data-Backed Analysis
✓
Yes
Solar panels are a strong investment in Washington based on available data.
The Numbers
Average System Cost
$52,345
14.5 kW system
After Federal ITC
$36,642
30% tax credit applied
Total Installations
6,327
96% residential
Factors in Favor
- ✓Below-average installation cost ($3.61/W vs national $4.18/W)
- ✓Federal 30% Investment Tax Credit available to all homeowners
- ✓96% residential - strong homeowner adoption
Things to Consider
- !Relatively few installations (6,327) - market is still developing
Washington vs National Average
| Metric | Washington | National |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per Watt | $3.61 | $4.18 |
| Total Installations | 6,327 | 3,426,466 |
| Total Capacity | 92 MW | - |
Frequently Asked Questions
The average solar system in Washington costs approximately $52,345 (avg 14.5 kW system at $3.61/W). After the 30% federal ITC, your net cost would be around $36,642.
All Washington homeowners are eligible for the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which reduces the cost by approximately $15,704. Additional state and local incentives may further reduce your costs. Visit our Washington incentives page for a complete breakdown.
Washington has 6,327 solar installations. Combined with competitive costs and available incentives, solar is a strong investment in Washington.
Source: LBNL Tracking the Sun, U.S. Department of Energy, EIA. Costs and savings are estimates based on average residential installations and may vary.