The state of Washington is great for clean energy. Net metering is required by state law to be credited at full retail rate each month. Credits expire on March 31 each year, and eligibility is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Some local utilities who participate in these programs include Avista Corporation, Clark Public Utilities, and Puget Sound Energy.
Washington prevents homeowners from having to pay sales tax on their solar equipment. Solar energy systems smaller than 100 kilowatts (kW) are exempt from state and local sales and use taxes. Given the average system cost of $26,900 and the average sales tax of 6.5%, it’s an average of $1,749 in savings. A buyer’s retail sales tax exemption certificate is required.
Additionally, the state of Washington prevents homeowners’ associations (HOAs) from prohibiting installations of a custom rooftop system on your home.