4 best solar companies in Yakima, Washington
Josephine NesbitContributing Writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Apr. 22, 2024
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Homefront Local uses a unique algorithm to score solar companies based on important factors like user reviews and how popular they are in your area.
High-quality solar panel installation in Yakima, Washington, requires hiring a solar installer that is certified, skilled and experienced. To help you find the perfect team, we’ve compiled a list of the top solar panel companies in Yakima.
Before hiring an installer, ask others for recommendations, screen potential installers and obtain multiple quotes to find the ideal company for your needs. You can choose a local solar company in Yakima or go with an established national brand.
- Extends 25-year system and labor warranties
- Installs electric vehicle chargers
- Offers strong leasing options
Although solar panels require a substantial initial investment, you can reduce your energy expenses in the long run by making the transition. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), moving to solar energy allows Yakima homeowners to save a yearly average of around $750.
The products from different solar technicians aren't all the same. Take the time to compare companies and get quotes before you set up your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Yakima
Seek out Yakima solar companies that have at least 3.5 out of 5 stars in customer ratings on Google Reviews and similar review websites. The company should also have a high rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Read through reviews to understand other homeowners’ experiences with a company, and be on the lookout for consistent bad reviews.
Solora Solar
Services Offered
Genesis Smart Homes
Services Offered
Wire-Tech Electric, Inc.
Services Offered
Umatilla Electric Cooperative
Services Offered
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Yakima?
Places with differing amounts of sun, including those with increased rain or cloud coverage like Yakima, can still utilize solar energy. Here are the best reasons for considering solar energy:
- Charge an electric vehicle: You can fuel electric vehicles using solar power at home. This is the optimal way to guarantee your electric vehicle is powered by renewable energy.
- Reduce environmental impact: Moving to solar reduces your carbon footprint by minimizing the use of fossil fuels that would be required to power your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that electricity production is one of the largest drivers of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Save on energy bills: Using solar energy lets you reduce your electricity bills. The power generated by solar panels replaces electricity that would otherwise be bought from utility providers.
Facts about Yakima
Monthly Energy Spending Per Capita
Clear Sky Days Per Year
Annual Solar Savings Per kW
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Yakima?
Our survey from October 2023 showed that the national average price of solar panel installation is $11,743.
The price of installing solar panels differs based on several factors, including your location, sunlight exposure, roof direction, shading, system size and labor. Be prepared to pay extra if you pick any extras like animal guards, solar trackers or batteries.
Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), NASA and the EIA, installing solar panels in Yakima typically costs $9,708.
How much can you save by going solar in Yakima?
Solar panel installation is a major initial investment, but you can expect to see big savings reflected in your energy bills over time.
Money savings in Yakima from going solar
After transitioning fully to solar power, Yakima homeowners usually see cost savings. However, recouping the initial investment requires time, and things like rain and tree shade impact the timeline for seeing returns on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The average payback period is the time it takes for a solar energy system to recover its initial cost. The payback period in Yakima is approximately 12 years, according to our calculations, which are based on data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA.
- Annual solar savings in Yakima: Based on numbers that leverage data from the Department of Energy, the EIA and NASA, Yakima homeowners save around $750 annually with solar energy.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Based on our data from NASA and the EIA, if you make the full switch to solar energy, you can expect to save around $11,544 over a 25-year period.
Energy savings in Yakima from going solar
Switching to solar not only saves money but also reduces your carbon emissions and environmental footprint. Our calculations using NASA and EPA data show the projected CO2 emission reductions achievable by going solar.
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Yakima?
There are multiple solar incentives open to homeowners in Yakima. Various programs are applicable to all Washington residents, while others depend on your city, municipality and utility company.
Accessible solar incentives for Washington homeowners, as stated by DSIRE, include:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Feed-in Tariff Renewable Energy Cost Recovery Incentive Payment | FY 2021: $0.02/kWh - $0.10/kWh |
Sales Tax Incentive Renewable Energy Sales and Use Tax Exemption | 100% exemption for sales of forest derived biomass used as fuel; 100% exemption for solar photovoltaic systems 10 kilowatts or less, and solar thermal systems; 75% exemption for other qualified systems |
Green Building Incentive Evergreen Sustainable Development Standard for Affordable Housing | See Website |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels. |
What are common factors to consider before hiring a Yakima solar installer?
Before choosing a professional solar panel installation company, go over these key considerations.
What size system do you need?
The right solar system size for you is based on how much energy your household utilizes, as well as the system's energy production ratio. Houses with higher energy demands often need more extensive solar installations. If the system isn't expansive enough, it could struggle to generate sufficient electricity to power your whole home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Specific permits and state or local regulations could affect your solar project. You’ll need to apply for the proper permits through your local building department and arrange an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all homes receive the same amount of sunlight. Trees, rain and severe weather conditions in your area can impact sunlight access. If your home doesn’t get enough sunlight, then you may require extra panels with more wattage capacity.
Do you need a solar battery?
For extra power storage, many panel systems come equipped with a solar battery. This feature becomes critical during storms and helps to mitigate power loss. However, adding battery storage could increase installation costs.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
Multiple solar panel varieties exist, each varying in design, efficiency and life expectancy. These factors impact pricing, the frequency of replacing panels and the amount of roof space you'll need.
Our methodology for selecting solar companies
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
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