Learn About Solar
Does Solar work in Seattle?
Absolutely! Seattle receives as much sun as Germany, the world's leading solar market!
Types of Solar Energy Systems
There are two main types of solar energy systems: one produces electricity and one heats water. |
A properly installed solar electric system will provide a reliable and low-maintenance source of electricity for many years. |
Solar Electric Systems (also called Photovoltaic* or "PV" systems) convert sunlight directly into electricity you can use in your home or business. With a photovoltaic system, you buy less electricity from Seattle City Light. If your system produces more electricity than you need at any given moment, the unused electricity goes back to the grid, spinning your utility meter backwards. This process is called "net metering."
Solar Hot Water Systems use the sun's heat to preheat the water that goes into your conventional water heater, so you use less energy to heat your water.
* "Photo" meaning light and "volt-aic" meaning volt as in electricity.
Is Solar Right for You?
Yes, if you...
- Own the building where you want to install solar;
- Have a roof in good shape and shade-free; and
- Are interested in making a long-term investment to protect yourself from rising energy costs and want to reduce your environmental impact.
Benefits and Costs
Solar Energy:
- Is a long-term investment that increases in value as energy costs rise.
- Reduces your "carbon footprint" -- the amount of greenhouse gases produced by your home or business, which in turn lessens your overall impact on the environment.
- Costs (for a home hot water system) between $6,000 and $8,000.
- Costs (for a solar electric system) between $8,000 and $10,000 per kilowatt (average residential systems are 1 to 3 kilowatts).
- Is eligible for incentives offered by Washington State of $0.15 to $0.54 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) generated (by a solar electric system) with a cap of $2,000 per year.
- Is eligible for a federal tax credit equal to 30% of the system cost.
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