SeattleSolar Incentives 2026: Rebates, Tax Credits & Net Metering
Seattle homeowners stack the 30% federal tax credit and Seattle City Light net metering. With 3.8 peak sun hours a day and bills averaging $105/month, the typical Seattle system pays back in about 9.8 years.
Solar Incentives Available in Seattle
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 City Light Net Metering in Seattle
Seattle City Light credits excess solar generation from Seattle homes under Washington's net metering rules, at roughly ~100% of retail of the retail rate. A right-sized system can bring net annual electricity costs close to zero. See full Washington net metering rules →
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in Seattle?
At Washington's 2026 average of $2.85/watt, a typical 8 kW system in Seattle runs about $22,800 before incentives. After the 30% federal credit, the net cost drops to roughly $15,960 — the real out-of-pocket number for most Seattle homeowners.
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Frequently Asked Questions
See your exact Seattle solar savings
Enter your Seattle City Light bill and we'll apply every Washington and federal incentive to your real numbers — system size, net cost, payback, and 25-year savings.