The demand for solar energy has been steadily growing in University Place, WA and surrounding communities. With abundant sunshine and high electricity rates from traditional utilities, more homeowners and businesses are looking to install solar panels on their roofs. The benefits of going solar include lower monthly electricity bills, independence from utility rate hikes, and minimizing your carbon footprint. However, with the rising popularity of solar, there are now many solar companies to choose from in University Place. It’s important to research and vet potential installers carefully. The wrong solar company could leave you with underperforming panels, poor workmanship issues, misleading claims, and difficulties accessing rebates or incentives. This guide examines the top solar energy companies in University Place and what you should look for when evaluating contractors and deciding who is the best fit to partner with on a solar project for your home or business.
Top 10 Solar Companies in University Place
Tesla – Tesla’s solar panels are high-efficiency and have an elegant, low-profile design. They offer complete solar roof systems as well as regular PV panels. Their systems come with a 25-year warranty.
SunPower – SunPower manufactures its own high-efficiency solar panels and offers solar solutions for both homes and businesses. They provide premium tier 1 solar panels and a 25-year warranty.
Sunlight Solar – Sunlight Solar has installed over 5,000 solar systems in Washington and focuses on providing quality craftsmanship and customer service. They offer flexible financing options.
Moxie Solar – Moxie Solar specializes in solar power systems for both residential and commercial properties. They use top-tier equipment and provide installation, maintenance, and repair services.
SolarTech Northwest – With over 15 years of solar experience, SolarTech Northwest custom designs each solar system and also handles permits, rebates, and incentives for clients.
Intermountain Wind & Solar – This company provides solar panel installation, EV charging stations, battery storage, and other renewable energy systems. Their installers are NABCEP certified.
Solar Solutions – Solar Solutions focuses on delivering value, sustainability, and energy independence through solar. They handle equipment procurement, installation, and monitoring.
Artisan Electric – Artisan Electric has been an electrical contractor in the region for over 20 years. They are experts at integrating solar systems with a home’s electrical infrastructure.
Sunergy Systems – Sunergy Systems offers turnkey solar energy services, from initial property assessment to system maintenance and repair. Their installers are WA licensed and bonded.
Solar Independent – Solar Independent provides customized solar power systems for homes, using high-quality equipment. They assist clients in securing tax credits and incentives.
What to Consider When Choosing a Solar Company
When selecting a solar company in University Place, there are a few key factors to consider:
Size of Property and System Needed
The size of your property and your energy usage will determine the solar system size you need. A reputable solar installer will assess your property, energy bills, and needs to determine the right system design. Larger properties may need a system size of 5-10 kW or more, while smaller homes may only need 2-6 kW. The orientation and roof space available are also considerations.
Types of Solar Warranties
Look for solar panels with a 25+ year power production warranty. Many come with 10-12 year product warranties as well. The inverters should have 10+ year warranties too. A good solar company will stand behind their system components. Ask about full system workmanship warranties.
Differences in Solar Panel Types
There are a few main types of solar panels to consider:
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Monocrystalline – Most efficient but priciest option. Made from a single silicon crystal.
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Polycrystalline – Slightly lower efficiency but cheaper. Made from multiple silicon crystal fragments.
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Thin Film – Uses less silicon but slightly lower output. Ideal for curved roofs or limited space.
High efficiency monocrystalline panels may be the best ROI over the long term. Discuss panel types with your installer.
Finding the Best Solar Installers
Choosing the right solar installer is key to getting a high-quality solar system installation. Here are some tips for finding the best solar companies in University Place:
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Research local solar installers – Look for established local companies that have a proven track record in University Place and the surrounding areas. They will be familiar with local regulations and permits. Ask neighbors who have solar panels installed for references.
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Compare multiple quotes – Be sure to get quotes from at least 3 top solar companies. Compare the system designs, equipment quality, warranties, prices and additional services. Avoid choosing based on price alone.
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Verify credentials and reviews – Check that the company has licensed and experienced installers. Look for installers accredited by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Read online reviews on sites like SolarReviews and the Better Business Bureau.
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Ask about the installation process – What is the typical timeframe? How much disruption and roof work is involved? How much of the work is subcontracted?
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Compare warranties – Look for at least a 10-year workmanship warranty. Make sure the equipment has a manufacturer’s warranty too.
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Understand the full costs – Get a detailed breakdown of all costs – equipment, labor, permits, etc. Are there any additional costs not in the initial quote?
Doing the proper research will help you find the most qualified, experienced solar company for your home or business.
University Place Solar Incentives
Installing solar panels in University Place can qualify you for various rebates and tax credits to help reduce the overall cost. Here’s an overview of some of the main solar incentives available:
Federal Solar Tax Credit
The federal solar tax credit allows you to deduct 26% of the cost of installing a solar energy system from your federal taxes. This applies to both residential and commercial systems. There is no maximum cap on the amount you can claim. This tax credit is scheduled to decrease to 22% in 2023 and 0% in 2024, so act soon to maximize savings.
Washington State Sales Tax Exemption
Washington offers a 100% sales tax exemption on the purchase of renewable energy equipment like solar panels. This exemption applies to both materials and labor costs. There is no maximum limit. This can save homeowners around 9% on costs.
WA Net Metering
With net metering, any excess solar energy your panels generate during the day can be fed back into the grid. This spins your electricity meter backwards and earns you credits from your utility company. At night when you draw power from the grid, it offsets your credit.
Local Incentives
Some utilities like Tacoma Power offer production incentives for generating solar energy. Contact your local utility to ask about any solar rebates or incentives available.
The combination of federal, state and local solar incentives can reduce the payback period for solar panels by multiple years in University Place. Compare quotes from multiple installers to find the best deal. Act soon to claim the 26% federal tax credit before it drops.
Estimating Solar Panel Costs
The cost of installing solar panels in University Place can vary greatly depending on the size of the system, type of panels, and other factors. However, here are some guidelines on what to expect:
System Cost
The average cost to install solar panels on a home in University Place ranges from $2.87 to $3.80 per watt according to 2021 estimates. This means a typical 6 kW system could cost between $17,220 and $22,800 before incentives. Commercial and utility-scale systems in WA can be below $2 per watt.
Energy Usage
The size system you need depends on your energy usage. An average home in University Place uses around 10,000 kWh per year. To offset 100% of this, a 6 kW system would be ideal. Check your past utility bills to understand your hourly, daily and monthly usage.
Estimated Savings
By generating your own electricity, you can reduce or eliminate your energy bills. Based on today’s utility rates in University Place, a 6 kW system can save $1,100 to $1,300 per year. Over the 25+ year lifespan, that can amount to over $50,000 in savings.
Payback Period
With solar incentives, the system payback period in University Place is roughly 5-7 years. This means the system essentially pays for itself in savings within 5-7 years. Afterwards, the remaining 20+ years of operation represent free solar electricity.
Return on Investment
Solar panels can provide a 10-25% ROI over their lifetime. This positive return is possible thanks to incentives, net metering savings, and now affordable solar panel costs.
Proper system sizing and smart panel selection are key factors to maximize potential savings. Work with reputable University Place installers to calculate costs and ROI for your property.
Are Solar Panels Worth it in University Place?
When weighing the costs and benefits of installing solar panels in University Place, many homeowners find that solar is well worth the investment in the long run. There are several reasons solar panels can provide excellent value:
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Electricity Cost Savings – With solar you can substantially reduce or even eliminate your electricity bills, saving $1,000 or more per year. The sun provides free power once the system is paid off.
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30% Federal Tax Credit – There is a generous 30% federal tax credit available for installing solar. This can cut nearly 1/3 off the total system cost.
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Increased Home Value – Having solar panels is estimated to increase a home’s value. This gives you a return when selling.
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Low Maintenance – Solar panels just need occasional cleaning and have a long 25+ year lifespan. This avoids the recurring costs of other utilities.
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Environmental Benefits – Going solar means you’ll produce clean, renewable electricity and reduce your carbon footprint. Many homeowners feel good supporting green energy.
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Long Term Investment – While there are upfront costs to go solar in University Place, you lock in savings on electric bills for decades to come. The system typically pays for itself within 10-12 years and continues providing free electricity.
Taking advantage of incentives, University Place’s good solar potential, and low electricity rates, installing solar panels is an excellent long term investment for most homeowners. The many years of free energy outweigh the initial costs over the system’s lifetime.
Home Battery Options
Installing a home battery system along with your solar panels allows you to store excess solar energy for use at night or during power outages. This gives you maximum energy independence and savings.
Some key home battery options to consider include:
Bluetti Battery Systems
Bluetti specializes in portable power stations and home battery systems designed for solar energy storage. Their line of lithium batteries work with any solar panel system and provide clean, silent power for backup or off-grid use.
Some of their top batteries include:
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Bluetti AC200MAX – With 2,048Wh of capacity, this expandable battery pack can provide days of power for most homes during an outage. It charges in 2-3 hours with solar and works with the Bluetti solar panels.
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Bluetti EB240 – This large capacity 4,800Wh lithium battery connects with up to six PV solar panels for off-grid solar energy storage. It powers homes easily for extended outages.
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Bluetti EB70 – The Bluetti EB70 is a compact 716Wh power station ideal for solar camping, RVs, and emergency home backup. It recharges quickly from 200W solar panels.
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Bluetti AC50S & AC200P – These compact, portable lithium solar batteries are designed for small solar set-ups and provide 500Wh to 2,000Wh of capacity. They work great for home backup and outdoor use.
Bluetti batteries offer advanced lithium technology, app connectivity, and modular expandability. Their high capacity home battery systems provide reliable solar energy storage for grid independence.
Choosing the Right Solar Company
Choosing the right solar company is crucial to ensure you get a properly designed and installed solar system. Here are some key factors to consider:
System Sizing
- Getting the system size right for your home’s energy needs is important for return on investment. Oversizing can increase upfront costs without additional savings benefits.
- A qualified solar company will do an assessment of your actual energy usage and size the system accordingly. They should use energy monitoring devices and analysis software.
- Beware of companies that try to oversell on system size – make sure recommendations align with your average kWh usage.
Experience and Credentials
- Go with an established local company with a track record of installations in your area. They will be familiar with permitting processes and codes.
- Check that the company has NABCEP certified installers on staff. This certification is the gold standard for solar tradespeople.
- Ask about how long the company has been in business and how many installations they have done. More experience means more refined expertise.
Overall Value and Service
- Solar energy consultants should act as advisors, not high-pressure salespeople. Ask plenty of questions and make sure you are comfortable.
- Look for great warranties on equipment and workmanship, at least 10 years for equipment and 1 year for labor.
- Opt for a company that handles everything from permits to utility paperwork to installation. Less hassle is worth paying for.
- Consider additional services like system monitoring, maintenance contracts, and production guarantees for enhanced long-term value.
Conclusion
As we’ve seen, installing solar panels in University Place, WA can provide many benefits, including lower electricity bills and a reduced carbon footprint. With solar incentives, loans, and tax credits, going solar is more affordable than ever.
Based on the solar companies reviewed, I recommend getting quotes from SunPower, Tesla Solar, and Solar Steward. These three companies are well-established, have positive reviews, offer strong warranties, and use high-efficiency solar panels. They can provide an estimate specific to your home and electricity usage in University Place.
When comparing quotes, look at the system size, equipment brands, warranties, and estimated annual production. Get a detailed proposal outlining the project timeline, permits, incentives, and payment structure. Also confirm the installer is licensed and insured.
While Fracal Solar had the lowest prices, I’d recommend being cautious with cheaper installers that may cut corners or use lower quality materials. The goal is finding the ideal balance of quality and value for your home.
With the right solar company, you can maximize savings and take control of your energy costs for years to come. Reach out for quotes and advice to get started on your solar energy journey today.