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Are Solar Panels Worth it in Seattle (Power Energy Estimation)

Mike Powers
Written by Mike Powers Last Updated: September 8, 2022

It is no secret that solar panels have become increasingly popular in recent years. With the rise of environmental awareness and the push for renewable energy, more and more people are looking into solar power as a way to save money and help the planet. But is solar power worth it? The answer, of course, depends on several factors.

In this article, we will take a look at the cost of solar panel installation in Seattle and the estimated amount of generated power that they can generate. We will also take other considerations such as government incentives and the payback period.

Table of Contents

Are Solar Panels Worth it in Seattle

The cost of monthly power bill in Seattle is constantly on the rise. In addition, the city has been ranked as one of the most expensive cities in which to live. As a result, many people are searching for alternative energy sources that can help them reduce their monthly expenses.

power grid

If you are looking for an alternative eco-friendly energy resource then try to take into consideration investing in solar panels.

The electric bill in Seattle is constantly on the rise. In addition, Seattle is ranked as one of the most expensive cities in which to live.

For these reasons, many people are searching for alternative energy sources that can help them reduce their monthly overall costs.

How to Get Started with Solar in Seattle?

If you are interested in getting solar energy systems for your home or business, there are a few things you need to do to get started.

Calculate your energy usage

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The first thing you need to do is calculate your energy usage. This can be done by looking at your past utility bills and calculating the average amount of electricity you use per month.

Assess your property

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You will also need to get a site assessment to determine if your property is suitable for solar installation. The installer will assess your property and determine if there is enough sun exposure and if the roof is strong enough to support the weight of the solar system.

Determine the size of the system

clean energy

Once you know your energy usage, you can determine the size of the solar energy system you need. A general rule of thumb is that a 1-kilowatt (kW) system will generate about 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per year.

Get quotes from solar installers

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The other step is to know the size of the system you need, you can get quotes from solar installers. Be sure to get quotes from several installers to compare prices.

Calculate the cost of installation

The total cost of the installation process can be quite expensive, especially if you need to purchase a new roof to accommodate them.

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As well, you need to find a reputable solar installer. There are many installers in the Seattle area, so it is important to do your research to find one that is experienced and has a good reputation in solar installations.

Check the amount of sunlight

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It is important to check the amount of solar array that Seattle receives. While the city does get a decent amount of sun, it is not as much as some other parts of the country.

This means that you may need to install more solar panels installed to generate the same amount of electricity as in other parts of the country.

For more information on how much electricity usage your home consumes in Seattle, contact the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council.

How Much Solar Panels Cost in Seattle?

The average cost of a solar panel system is about $15,000 after the federal tax credit, and it can generate about 4,200 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per year. This means that over 25 years, the system will generate about 105,000 kWh of electricity.

What Determine the Panels Cost in Seattle?

The cost of a solar panel system is determined by the size of the system, the type of panels, the installer, the location, the upfront costs, the local incentives, the energy production, and other factors.

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The average price per watt for a solar power system in Seattle is $3.05. The average price of a 5-kilowatt (kW) system is $15,250, and the average price of a 10-kW system is $30,500.

These prices do not include the federal solar tax credit, which is available for systems that are installed by December 31, 2019.

The credit is worth 30% of the cost of the system. For example, a 5-kW system would be eligible for a tax credit of $4,575, and a 10-kW system would be eligible for a credit of $9,150.

How Does Net Metering work in Seattle?

Net metering is a billing arrangement between you and your utility company.

Under net metering, you are only billed for the “net” amount of renewable energy that you use.

This means that if your system produces more electricity than you use in a month, the excess energy is “banked” with the utility, and you are credited for the electricity.

The credits can be used to offset future electricity use, and you will only be billed for the net amount of electricity that you use.

For more information on net metering in Seattle, contact your utility company.

What is the Average Payback Period in Seattle?

The average payback period for solar panels in Seattle is 7 to 8 years. This means that it will take 7 to 8 years for the solar energy system to generate enough electricity to offset its initial cost.

After this period, the solar energy system will continue to generate solar energy for many years, resulting in significant savings over the long term.

What are other Available Incentives?

In addition to the federal tax credit, there are several local solar incentives available for those who install a solar system in Seattle.

Solar incentive program

The Washington State Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council has approved a solar incentive program that will pay up to $1,500 for each kilowatt hour (kW) of installed capacity. This incentive is available for systems that are installed by December 31, 2020.

Rebate

In addition, the city of Seattle offers a rebate of up to $500 for solar panel systems that are installed on single-family homes. The rebate is available for systems with a capacity of up to 5 kW.

The Seattle City Light utility also offers a rebate of $350 per kilowatt (kW) for solar panel systems that are installed on residential and commercial buildings. The rebate is available for systems with a capacity of up to 10 kW.

What is the Solar Potential in Seattle?

Seattle has a very good solar potential. The city receives an average of about 200 days of sunshine per year, and the average solar insolation is 4.5 kilowatt-hours per square meter per day.

These conditions are ideal for generating electricity with a solar energy system.

How to Protect Your Home During a Power Outage?

If you are worried about power outages, consider a solar installation with battery backup. This type of system will allow you to generate electricity even when the electrical grid is down.

The battery will store the electricity so that it is available when you need it.

A solar panel system with a battery backup is a great option for those who want to be prepared for power outages.

What is the Best Way to Finance Solar Panels?

There are several financing options available for solar panel systems.

You can pay for the system with cash, get a loan, or lease the system from a solar company.

Paying for the

How to Negotiate for the Best Price for Solar Panels in Seattle?

When you are ready to install solar panels, it is important to negotiate for the best price. Solar panels can be quite expensive, and you want to make sure you are getting the best deal possible.

Here are a few tips for negotiating the best price for solar panels:

Get quotes

Gather quotes from multiple installers. This will give you a good idea of the range of prices that are out there.

Negotiate

Don’t be afraid to negotiate. The price is not set in stone, and you can try to get a better deal.

Ask for discounts

Many solar installers offer discounts for things like choosing to pay cash upfront or having a good credit score.

Compare the costs

Mind the offers you received and compare the cost of installation to the cost of purchasing the solar panels outright. In some cases, it may be cheaper to purchase the solar panels outright and have someone else install them.

Check for government incentives

The federal government offers a tax credit for installing solar panels, and many states also offer incentives.

Don’t be afraid to walk away

If you can’t get a good deal, don’t be afraid to walk away and look for another installer. Solar panels are a big investment, and you want to make sure you are getting the best deal possible.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Seattle is a great place to install solar panels. The city has a very good solar potential and offers many incentive programs that make solar panels more affordable.

If you are considering installing solar panels, be sure to get quotes from multiple installers and negotiate for the best price.

References

Author

Mike Powers
Mike Powers

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