State Banner

Discover the Power of Solar Energy in Washington!

Welcome to Washington State, a place of breathtaking natural wonders, thriving green spaces, and a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Washington is embracing the immense potential of solar power to create a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. Despite its reputation for cloudy skies, Washington State receives a significant amount of solar radiation, making it an ideal location for harnessing the power of the sun. With advancements in solar technology and supportive state policies, more Washingtonians are discovering the benefits of solar energy. By investing in solar power, residents can reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, lower their energy bills, and contribute to the fight against climate change. Washington State offers a range of incentives and programs to encourage the adoption of solar energy, driving the demand for solar power across the state. Join the solar revolution in Washington and discover how you can make a positive impact on both your wallet and the environment, while preserving the state’s pristine natural beauty for generations to come.

Solar State Incentives

Washington State Solar Incentives

Interconnection Standards
The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission updated interconnection standards for distributed generation systems up to 20MW, introducing three tiers based on system capacity and setting compliance, safety and reliability standards.
Renewable Energy Manufacturing Program
WEDFA and Commerce offer financing for renewable energy manufacturing in Washington, with up to 80% interest subsidies. Eligibility requires job creation/retention.
Mandatory Utility Green Power Option
Washington mandates utilities with over 25,000 customers to offer renewable energy options, with the state overseeing the green power programs.
Renewable Energy System Incentive Program
Washington's solar, wind, and anaerobic digester incentives, established by Senate Bills 5101 and 6658, have reached their budget cap.
Evergreen Sustainable Development Standard for Affordable Housing
"Washington State mandates green building protocol for affordable housing projects seeking funding, promoting sustainability and energy efficiency."
Net Metering
Washington's net-metering regulation, applicable to all customer categories and utilities, allows systems up to 100 kW to produce electricity from various sources until June 30, 2029 or until capacity limit is reached.
Energy Efficiency and Solar Grants
The Energy Retrofits for Public Buildings program offers grants for energy efficiency and solar projects in public facilities in Washington State, with special provisions for small towns and low-income areas.
Renewable Energy Standard
Washington state has adopted initiatives for renewable energy standards and a transition to 100% clean electricity by 2045, with specific targets and regulations for utilities.
Renewable Energy Sales and Use Tax Exemption
Washington State offers sales tax exemptions for equipment used in electricity generation and "hog fuel" till 2034. Full exemption is offered for solar systems of 10 kW or less.
Washington Community Solar Program
Washington State's Revised Code authorizes community solar projects with specific requirements. New incentive program launched to benefit low-income subscribers.
Tax Abatement for Solar Manufacturers
Washington State provides significant tax reductions for manufacturers of solar energy components, with incentives extended until 2032.
Grays Harbor PUD - Net Metering
Grays Harbor PUD differs from Washington state law by reimbursing for net excess generation at 50% of its retail rate, promoting renewable energy use.
Green Building and Energy Reduction Standards for State Agencies
Washington mandates state facilities to meet LEED Silver standards for green building, with the Department of Enterprise Services overseeing protocol and progress.
WSHFC Sustainable Energy Program
The Sustainable Energy Trust offers low-interest loans up to $1M for energy efficiency and renewable projects in new construction, multifamily housing, and clean energy technologies.
Seattle City - Solar Permit Requirements
Seattle rolls out extensive guide to help homeowners and businesses install solar electric systems, including permits, regulations, and costs.

Federal Solar Incentives

USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants
REAP, administered by USDA, provides financial aid to small rural businesses and agricultural producers for sustainable energy projects. Grants cover 25% of the project cost, up to $25 million.
Interconnection Standards for Small Generators
New FERC order mandates small generators under 20 MW to maintain operation during abnormal frequency and voltage events, enhancing interconnection efficiency.
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Loan Guarantees
The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) supports agricultural producers and rural businesses in the US by providing financial aid for renewable energy projects and energy efficiency improvements.
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs)
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs) were used by public entities to fund renewable energy projects. They were repealed in 2017.
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs)
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs) financed energy projects by local governments. Discontinued in 2018, they offered tax credits as interest to bondholders.
Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs - Funding Opportunities
The DOE's Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs aids tribes in attaining energy self-sufficiency and economic growth through renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies.
Fannie Mae Green Financing – Loan Program
Fannie Mae's Green Financing offers loans for multifamily properties aiming for energy and water efficiency improvements. Eligible properties can access favorable rates and additional loan proceeds.
Energy-Efficient Mortgages
Energy efficient mortgages (EEM) allow homeowners to finance energy-saving renovations or purchase new energy-efficient homes. These loans, insured by the U.S. government, aim to promote energy efficiency.
Green Power Purchasing Goal for Federal Government
The Energy Policy Act of 2005 set a goal for federal buildings to use 7.5% renewable energy by 2013. This target was increased to 30% by 2025 but later rescinded in 2018.
USDA - High Energy Cost Grant Program
USDA's grant program, enhancing energy generation in rural areas, concluded its latest application period on July 6, 2021. Updates can be found on the program website.
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Personal)
US law exempts energy conservation subsidies provided by utilities from taxation but requires adjustments for federal tax credits. IRS guidance on solar rebates is unclear.
Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit
H.R. 5376 extends tax credit for energy storage systems and excludes biomass heaters, with credit amounts varying by technology type and installation date.
U.S. Department of Energy - Loan Guarantee Program
The Inflation Reduction Act has allocated $11.7 billion to the LPO for new loans, boosting loan authority by $100 billion, and setting up the Energy Infrastructure Reinvestment Program.
Business Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 updates the federal Business Energy Investment Tax Credit, introducing new eligibility criteria, bonus credits, and transitions the tax credit to a new section.
Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC)
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 introduces changes to the federal renewable electricity production tax credit, introducing new bonus credits and eligibility criteria.
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Corporate)
U.S. energy conservation subsidies provided by public utilities are tax-exempt, but this does not extend to certain electricity-generating systems. Tax credits can't be claimed for unsubsidized expenses.
Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS)
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 allows 100% depreciation for qualified assets, impacting renewable energy technologies. MACRS classifies these technologies for depreciation purposes.
Energy and Emissions Goals and Standards for Federal Government
President Biden's Executive Order 14057 sets ambitious sustainability goals for the US, including 100% carbon-free electricity by 2030 and a fully zero-emission federal fleet by 2035.