Solar Panels Cost 11k-21k in Federal Way, WA | November, 2024

Solar Panels Cost $11k-$21k in Federal Way, WA | November, 2024

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How much do solar panels cost in Federal Way, WA in 2024?

In November, 2024 in Federal Way, WA you'll pay about $3.4/W to get solar installed.

Stemming from the cost, expect the cost to be $3,400, on average, for every 1 kW (or 1000 watts) of solar energy your panels can generate. When you subtract the 30% federal tax credit, you will pay approximately $11,900, in Federal Way, for a 5 kW panel install. Keep in mind that a higher capacity system could be essential to meet your energy demands.

Use the left-hand menu to select your area and find out the typical roof size and the maximum generation capacity for residential solar on homes in your county. Below, you can see a detailed outline of the costs, payback period, and 20-year typical savings for a 5 kW system in your county.

Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Federal Way: $11,900US Average: $12,523
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Federal Way: 9 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Federal Way: $9,518US Average: $16,169

Solar Potential in Federal Way

Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in
Federal Way.

Roof size 644sq. ft.
Capacity 9kW DC
Electricity 8.8kkWh AC per yr.

Electricity Costs in Federal Way, WA & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing

The typical kWh usage for a Federal Way resident is 818 monthly, with an average electric bill of $110.49. It’s essential to recognize that this figure reflects the energy consumption of apartments and other smaller residences.

For November 2024, the mean electricity rate in Federal Way, WA is 13.5¢ per kWh.

The average energy user in Federal Way has to have a 9 kW or more solar setup to account for their entire power consumption needs. At this time, a 9 kW solar panel installation will set you back about $30,600at first, but thanks to the 30% federal tax credit, you receive 30% back, bringing the cost down to $21,420.

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Average solar panel costs by system size in Federal Way

Located below and to the left, you can find the cost summary for different sizes of solar panel systems set up in Federal Way. When you select a more extensive solar system, the cost is greater, but it also yields more significant electricity savings and a larger income tax credit.

The calculator to the right and below provides a detailed summary of solar panel costs and benefits, based on an average electric bill of $110.49 in Federal Way. Change the $110.49 to your typical electricity bill payment for results that fit your situation.

System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $761 a year
Est. Price
$11,900
Savings from a 5kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 5,855 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $63
  • Full payback in 9 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 0.82 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 38 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 2,028 mi less a year
System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $913 a year
Est. Price
$14,280
Savings from a 6kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 7,026 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $76
  • Full payback in 11 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 0.98 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 45 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 2,433 mi less a year
System Size 7kW
Roof Size Min. space required
501 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,066 a year
Est. Price
$16,660
Savings from a 7kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 8,197 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $89
  • Full payback in 13 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.15 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 53 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 2,839 mi less a year
System Size 8kW
Roof Size Min. space required
572 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,218 a year
Est. Price
$19,040
Savings from a 8kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 9,368 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $101
  • Full payback in 14 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.31 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 60 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 3,245 mi less a year
System Size 9kW
Roof Size Min. space required
644 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,370 a year
Est. Price
$21,420
Savings from a 9kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 10,539 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $110
  • Full payback in 16 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.42 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 65 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 3,517 mi less a year

Federal Way Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024

For rural small businesses and agricultural properties, the REAP Grant could provide funding that covers between 80% and 100% of the necessary expenses for installing renewable energy systems. Think you might qualify? Use our REAP Grant eligibility tool to confirm your eligibility.

The federal government offers a 30% tax credit for residential solar systems, making solar attractive and practical for a variety of homeowners. Moreover, several state and local programs are in place to further encourage the adoption of solar energy.

In Washington, 14 solar rebates and incentives are currently available from various utilities and government organizations.

Solar incentives in WA

Renewable Energy Sales and Use Tax Exemption

Value:Varies

Most renewable energy systems in Washington state are at least partially exempt from sales/use tax. Qualifying technologies include solar, wind, some biomass, hydroelectric, geothermal, landfill gas, and hog fuel (wood-burning.) Total exemptions are available for hog fuel systems and solar devices rated for less than 10 kW. Other systems will receive a 75% exemption applied at the time of purchase. Exemption certificates are available from the Department of Revenue and must be presented to the equipment dealer.

Renewable Energy Standard

Value:Varies

Washington first established a renewable portfolio standard in 2006 upon the passage of a statewide referendum. The most recent standard goals required at least 15% of each utility's retail electricity to be generated using renewable technology by 2020. Compliance with the standard is measured using a Renewable Energy Credit system pegging one megawatt hour of electricity to a variable dollar amount. Utilities may generate credits using their own renewable facilities or purchase them from customers through tariff programs. Should a utility fail to meet its standard quota, it will be fined for each credit it is deficient. Utilities are exempt from the standard if they do not have load growth or if renewable energy investment would not be cost-effective.

Interconnection Standards

Value:Varies

Distributed generation and interconnection practices in Washington state have been standardized since 2007. All private utilities are subject to the standards; local public utilities and cooperatives are exempt. Each new renewable energy system to be interconnected will be assigned one of three regulatory Tiers. A system's Tier determines the IEEE/UL/NEC standards it must follow and the rigor of the permit process, including application fees and turnaround times. Tier 1 ends at 25 kW, while Tier 2 ends at 500 kW. External disconnect switches are required for systems at or above Tier 2. Utilities may require customers to carry liability insurance or a minimum warranty for their system.

Green Building and Energy Reduction Standards for State Agencies

Value:Varies

Since 2005, new state buildings and public remodeling projects in Washington state have been required to follow certain green building standards. Any new occupied public building at least 25,000 square feet in size must meet the requirements for LEED Silver certification and pursue formal accreditation from the US Green Building Council. Remodeling projects should incorporate as many LEED principles as possible, though they are not required to pursue formal certification. Additional information is available from the Washington Department of Enterprise Services.

Clark Public Utilities - Solar Energy Equipment Loan

Value:Varies

Residential customers of Clark Public Utilities may be eligible for special loans to fund new solar energy systems and components. The maximum available principal per loan is $30,000 at 3.5% APR. The principal determines both repayment period duration and the applicable fees and conditions. Additional information is available from the CPU website.

Grays Harbor PUD - Net Metering

Value:Varies

The Grays Harbor Public Utility District operates a unique net metering program. Credits for net excess generation are awarded at the end of each year and amount to half of the normal retail price. While the Grays Harbor program technically does not follow the letter of the state's net metering laws, customers may earn additional benefits and have a greater incentive to adopt renewable energy. Additional information is available through the utility website.

WSHFC Sustainable Energy Program

Value:Varies

The Sustainable Energy Program/Trust is a division of the Washington State Housing Finance Commission. Residents and businesses undertaking new green construction or making energy efficiency improvements may be eligible for at least $50,000 of special financing. Interest rates of 2 - 4% are available. To qualify, a project should improve the site or entity's energy efficiency by at least 10%. Standard engineering reviews and pre/post-work energy audits apply. Additional information is available from the WSHFC website.

Evergreen Sustainable Development Standard for Affordable Housing

Value:Varies

The Evergreen Sustainable Development Standard is Washington's green building rubric tailored for new affordable housing. Standards are based on LEED and incur points for compliance. Small energy efficiency practices can earn 1 point, using renewable energy (such as solar PV) can earn five points, and exceeding the total standard will earn 15 points. New affordable housing projects should earn at least 50 points; remodeling projects should earn at least 40 points. Additional information and a copy of the standard are available from the Washington State Department of Commerce.

Renewable Energy Manufacturing Program

Value:Varies

The Sustainable Energy Program/Trust is a division of the Washington State Housing Finance Commission. Residents and businesses undertaking new green construction or making energy efficiency improvements may be eligible for at least $50,000 of special financing. Interest rates of 2 - 4% are available. To qualify, a project should improve the site or entity's energy efficiency by at least 10%. Standard engineering reviews and pre/post-work energy audits apply. Additional information is available from the WSHFC website.

Mandatory Utility Green Power Option

Value:Varies

Washington state law requires all public or private electrical utilities with a customer base of at least 25,000 to offer green power options. Customers can purchase 100% renewable energy in fixed blocks. This energy may be derived from solar, wind, biomass, hydroelectric, landfill gas, or a combination of these technologies. Each customer will be notified of the green power option on a quarterly basis. Annual reports on program uptake and resources are available from the state legislature.

Tax Abatement for Solar Manufacturers

Value:Varies

In 2005, former Washington governor Christine Gregoire approved a legislative corporate tax cut for the state's solar energy device and component manufacturers. Current tax rates for these companies are at least 43% below the average liability. Tax incentives only apply to businesses producing silicon components, semiconductors, solar cells, converters, and other components directly involved in the production of photovoltaic energy. The special rates expire in 2027. Additional information is available from the Department of Revenue.

Net Metering

Value:Varies

In Washington, any renewable energy system rated for under 100 kW is eligible for net metering. All public/private utilities and cooperatives must offer interconnection and net metering to new renewable energy customers. Upon agreeing to a net metering contract, the energy system's owner will have a bidirectional meter installed to measure net excess generation (NEG) sent back to the grid. Utilities will credit customer bills for NEG at an avoided-cost rate per kilowatt hour. Should generation exceed consumption for any given cycle, NEG credits may roll forward to subsequent months. Additional information is available from the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission.

Renewable Energy Cost Recovery Incentive Payment

Value:Varies

The Sustainable Energy Program/Trust is a division of the Washington State Housing Finance Commission. Residents and businesses undertaking new green construction or making energy efficiency improvements may be eligible for at least $50,000 of special financing. Interest rates of 2 - 4% are available. To qualify, a project should improve the site or entity's energy efficiency by at least 10%. Standard engineering reviews and pre/post-work energy audits apply. Additional information is available from the WSHFC website.

Energy Efficiency and Solar Grants

Value:Varies

The Sustainable Energy Program/Trust is a division of the Washington State Housing Finance Commission. Residents and businesses undertaking new green construction or making energy efficiency improvements may be eligible for at least $50,000 of special financing. Interest rates of 2 - 4% are available. To qualify, a project should improve the site or entity's energy efficiency by at least 10%. Standard engineering reviews and pre/post-work energy audits apply. Additional information is available from the WSHFC website.

Are solar panels worth it in Washington?

When you intend to live in your home beyond the payback period of your solar system, solar panels are an excellent choice in Federal Way. In Federal Way, WA, the installation of a 5 kW solar system can save you an average of $14,617.6 over 20 years, with an average break even point of 9 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in Federal Way, WA

Beyond forgoing the savings discussed previously, not installing solar panels or another form of backup power results in you being completely dependent on your electric utility. The media has demonstrated several cases where total dependence on your utility isn't always ideal.

In recent years, the utilities in Federal Way have had about 0.85 outages per customer each year. Outages generally last for an average of 111.08 minutes. During major occurrences like vandalism, equipment failure or thunderstorms, these times can extend significantly.

Whether a backup battery is included or not, a solar panel system could reduce the burden of potential future outages.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in King County.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

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What impacts the cost of solar panels in Federal Way, WA?

Your Energy Needs - Even though larger solar panel systems are more expensive initially, the average price per watt lowers as the system size grows. For most consumers, installing a system that can generate enough power to reduce their entire electric bill is beneficial, providing significant savings.

Make & Model - There are a range of makes and models of solar panels. Picking an contractor with specific brand preferences means it's even more important important to go with a recommended company. The choice of high-quality models can substantially improve the long-term experience for buyers.

Solar Panel Type - Monocrystalline panels have earned their place as the industry standard, and for good reasons. Even with a higher cost, this technology produce more energy. The majority of installers choose panels constructed using this material.

Your Property - Each property and residence is unique. Issues like uneven land, trees, or other obstructions may add to the complexity of the installation. Currently, most solar installers can assess your home using satellite images and incorporate these elements for the initial cost estimate.

Labor Rates - Companies pay their employees in varying amounts, and these costs are passed down to consumers. It is typical for businesses that offer higher wages to garner better reviews for their services and customer service.

Permitting & Interconnection - Local permitting and utility level interconnection fees differ by area and will impact your final install price. Quality local installers will incorporate these figures into your first estimates to eliminate any surprises.

See what solar panels cost in other WA cities

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Who are the best solar installers in Federal Way?

A&R Solar

Seattle, WA(206) 707-9937

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Western Solar

Bellingham, WA(360) 746-0859

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Douglass Colony Group

Commerce City, CO(877) 288-0650

Services

  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

SunVest Solar

Pewaukee, WI(262) 547-1200

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Core Development Group

(201) 825-2195

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Solgen Power

Pasco, WA(855) 709-1181

Services

  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Elemental Energy

Portland, OR(503) 967-5786

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Whidbey Sun & Wind

Coupeville, WA(360) 678-7131

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Dividend Finance

Cincinnati, OH(415) 805-7000

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

SunPower Corporation

San Jose, CA(800) 786-7693

Services

  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Forecast Solar

Everett, WA(425) 487-6000

Services

  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Whidbey Sun and Wind

(360) 678-7131

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Entegrity

Little Rock, AR(800) 700-1414

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Northwest Electric & Solar

Kenmore, WA(206) 356-0601

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Pinnacle Roofing Professionals

Lynnwood, WA(206) 919-3538

Services

  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Puget Sound Solar

Seattle, WA(206) 706-1931

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

LightEdison

Denver, CO(888) 966-6377

Services

  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Sunergy Systems

Seattle, WA(206) 279-0493

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Federal Way, WA Solar Panel Cost FAQs

  • During November, 2024, the average price for solar panel installations in Federal Way, WA is $3.4/W. A 5 kW solar panel system will cost you around $11,900 in Federal Way, WA after the federal tax credit is applied.
  • If you live in Washington, you can find 14 rebates and incentives through different utilities and government agencies. Additionally, almost everyone is entitled to the 30% federal income tax credit.
  • Cash payments provide the greatest savings, but numerous financing options for solar panels that are financially advantageous are now available. Financing partners are often associated with many installers, and this will be detailed in your initial quotes.
  • Yes, the payback period for 5 kW solar energy systems in Federal Way, WA averages 9 years, with electricity savings of about $14,617.6 over 20 years.
King Manalo
Last Reviewed By: King Manalo
Published: 2024-11-01