SeattleSolar Incentives 2026: Rebates, Tax Credits & Net Metering

Solar incentives in Seattle come in three layers. First, every homeowner qualifies for the 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit on the full installed cost, claimed on IRS Form 5695. Washington does not add a state income tax credit, so the federal credit is the main up-front incentive. Third, Seattle City Light sets the local rules for crediting the solar power you export.

Seattle's low sun hours are partly offset by Washington's solar sales-tax exemption and Seattle City Light net metering.

Seattle gets 3.8 peak sun hours a day, so each 1 kW of panels produces about 1,110 kWh per year here. A 8.2 kW system — the size that fits a typical $105/month Seattle City Light bill — generates roughly 9,099 kWh annually, worth about $1,274 in avoided electricity in year one and more as rates rise.

Seattle City Light credits excess solar generation from Seattle homes under Washington's full retail-rate net metering (~100% of retail). A right-sized system can bring net annual electricity costs close to zero. See full Washington net metering rules →

At Washington's 2026 average of $2.85/watt, the 8.2 kW system most Seattle homes need runs about $23,370 before incentives. The 30% federal credit takes off $7,011 — landing the net cost near $16,359, with payback around 11.3 years.