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How does Go Solar Washington work?

Any residences, businesses, and non-profit organizations with a physical address located in the boundary of the community where a Go Solar community campaign is taking place are eligible to participate. The steps for participation are very easy, as follows:

• Register with a Go Solar workshop in your community
• Attend one of several educational and informative workshops
• Receive a free solar site assessment
• Decide the system size and financing options
• Get ready to enjoy free power from the sun and the financial benefits that come with it

 

Does solar energy work in western Washington?

Yes, we get plenty of sunlight, both direct and diffuse. Especially between May and September, long daylight and cooler temperatures help make up the difference with southern states where they have shorter daylight and hotter temperatures (solar cell efficiency declines when it gets hotter). Remember, photovoltaic technology works well under diffuse sunlight. Most importantly, solar energy is a good compliment to the hydro reliant grid. We have the most sun when our stream flow is the lowest.

 

Why should I Go Solar now?

1. Take advantage of the many benefits included in a Go Solar community campaign: volume discounts, flexible financing options, and professional, highly skilled solar installation service.
2. Start earning Washington State Renewable Energy Production Incentives immediately up to $0.54/kilowatt hour before it goes away in June 2020.
3. Take 30% off the system’s cost as a federal tax credit.
4. Take real steps towards climate change and protect the salmon in the Pacific Northwest.
5. Protect your family from rising electricity costs.
6. Make a savvy financial decision. Solar energy systems’ performance is much more reliable than Wall Street and the housing market. Having a solar energy system on your house will also increase its value and marketability.
7. Support buy local by generating electricity on your own roof!
8. Get ready for electric vehicles – the cars for the future.
9. Solar is good for your business. With no noise, and no moving parts, photovoltaic system is a trouble free, durable investment that will help lower your energy costs and show your customers that you care about the environment.
10. With Go Solar, it’s never been easier to become a solar leader.

 

How can I determine that solar makes financial sense for me?

There are a number of incentives available that makes going solar now a better time than ever. These include:
 
- Go Solar volume discounts of 15% to 20% off typical pricing.
- Federal tax credit at 30% of the cost the system.
- Washington State Production Incentives at up to $0.54 per kilowatt hour.
- Net-metering, at the retail value of the electricity produced by the system.
- Full tax depreciation of the system if it is your business that goes solar.
 
Included in the written assessment of the technical viability of your site, the solar consultant will provide a financial viability assessment, taking the above into account.

 

What if my home or business location is not a good solar site?

Community Solar was created in Washington State so that people and organizations can own a solar electric system who otherwise could not due to various barriers such as living in a condominium, owning a home that does not have good solar access, or having a roof another five years useful life, you can consider participating in a community solar project.

 

How long will the solar system last?

Itek Energy offers a 25-year performance warranty. According to a new study by the National Renewable Energy Lab, solar panels have an expected operational life of up to 40 years.

How can I learn more?

Go Solar Washington is hosting free workshops in communities in Washington State (See links on the right) as well as free site assessments to see if your home electric bill could benefit from rooftop solar. If you can’t attend one of the workshops, contact us and we’ll be happy to talk to you about your particular situation.