What it costs, what's permitted, and what to ask before you hire.
Last verified: 2026-05-30 · Data building
Likely first step
Get itemized quotes from 2–3 licensed contractors
Panel / electrical
Verify your panel capacity with an electrician
Complexity
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Permit likelihood
Confirm with your building department
Rebate sensitivity
Verify current programs
Best first call
A licensed contractor for an itemized quote
Utility impact
Electric: Seattle City Light; gas: Puget Sound Energy
Rate and program details not yet verified — confirm with your utility.
Cost snapshot
Local cost data not yet verified. Get itemized quotes from 2-3 licensed contractors and compare line items.
Incentive snapshot
Section 25D Residential Clean Energy Credit (solar PV)
Expired Dec 31, 2025. For 2023–2025: 30% of total installed cost, no cap. EXPIRED: This federal credit ended Dec 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21, signed July 4, 2025). Expenditures made after Dec 31, 2025 do not qualify — for §25D, the IRS treats the expenditure date as the date the installation is placed in service (completed), not the date of payment. A homeowner who paid a deposit in 2025 but whose system was placed in service in 2026 does not qualify. For installations placed in service during 2023–2025, the credit applied to solar PV systems supplying electricity to a U.S. residential dwelling used by the taxpayer as a residence (principal residence not required; second homes qualified; rentals not occupied by the taxpayer did not qualify), satisfying applicable fire and electrical codes, with installation costs included in the credit basis. The credit was nonrefundable with carryforward. Homeowners with eligible 2025 placed-in-service installations may still claim the credit on their 2025 federal tax return. Verify with a qualified tax professional.