Introduction:
Washington State is known for its rainy and cloudy weather, but did you know that the state also receives a considerable amount of sunshine? In fact, Washington State receives more solar radiation than Germany, the world leader in solar energy production. With the state’s abundant solar resources, it’s no wonder that many Washingtonians are turning to solar energy as an alternative source of electricity. In this article, we’ll explore the basics of solar energy and the various solar programs, incentives, and companies available in Washington State.
Where is Solar Energy Transferred in Washington State?
Solar energy is transferred to the electric grid in Washington State through the net metering program. Net metering allows homeowners and businesses to receive credits for the excess solar energy they produce, which can be used to offset their electricity bills. This program is available to all utility customers in Washington State and is regulated by the state’s utilities commission.
Solar Incentives in Washington State:
Washington State offers a variety of solar incentives to encourage homeowners and businesses to switch to solar energy. One of the most significant incentives is the state’s production incentive program, which pays homeowners and businesses for the excess solar energy they produce. The program pays $0.16 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for the first 1,000 kWh of solar energy produced, and $0.05 per kWh for the next 9,000 kWh. Additionally, there is a sales tax exemption on the purchase and installation of solar panels in the state.
Do Solar Panels Work in Washington State?
Yes, solar panels do work in Washington State, even in cloudy and rainy weather. Solar panels are still able to produce electricity on cloudy days, although at a reduced capacity. Washington State’s solar potential is relatively high, with an average of 164 sunny days per year. However, it’s important to note that solar panel efficiency is affected by factors such as shading, panel orientation, and temperature.
Solar Programs in Washington State:
Washington State offers several solar programs to help homeowners and businesses switch to solar energy. The Community Solar program allows customers to purchase or lease a portion of a larger solar project, which can be used to offset their electricity bills. The Solarize Washington program helps communities bulk-purchase solar panels, which results in lower installation costs. The Washington State University Energy Program also offers technical assistance and training for those interested in solar energy.
Solar Companies in Washington State:
Washington State has several solar companies that offer installation, maintenance, and repair services. Some of the most prominent solar companies in the state include Sunergy Systems, A&R Solar, Puget Sound Solar, and Artisan Electric. These companies offer various financing options, including leases and power purchase agreements, which can make solar energy more affordable for homeowners and businesses.
Cost of Solar Panels in Washington State:
The cost of solar panels in Washington State varies depending on the size and quality of the system. The average cost of a residential solar panel system in the state ranges from $10,000 to $20,000. However, with incentives such as the production incentive program and sales tax exemption, the cost of solar panels can be significantly reduced.
How Do You Transfer Solar Energy?
Solar energy is transferred to the electric grid through the use of an inverter, which converts the DC power produced by the solar panels into AC power that can be used by household appliances and sent back to the grid. Net metering allows homeowners and businesses to receive credits for the excess solar energy they produce, which can be used to offset their electricity bills.
What is Direct Solar Energy?
Direct solar energy refers to the solar radiation that is directly absorbed by a surface, such as a solar panel, and converted into electricity. Direct solar energy is the most efficient type of solar energy because it bypasses.
