Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Mead, Washington. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading local Spokane company with a strong focus on custom residential solar solutions. They are highly praised for their end-to-end service, from initial consultation and system design to professional installation and post-installation support. Their team is known for its expertise in navigating local permit requirements and utility interconnection with Avista Utilities.
Northwest Renewables has built a stellar reputation across the Inland Northwest for high-quality installations and exceptional customer service. They are a certified partner for top-tier equipment manufacturers, ensuring robust warranties. They excel at explaining complex financing options and incentives in simple terms, making solar accessible.
Solarius Solar specializes in both residential and small commercial projects, with a particular strength in integrating solar with existing home energy systems. They offer comprehensive maintenance and repair packages, making them a go-to provider for long-term system health and performance optimization, including solar panel cleaning services.
** The home solar market in Mead and the greater Spokane area is **robust and competitive**, characterized by several well-established, local companies. The market quality is generally high, as these providers have matured alongside state incentives and the specific requirements of Avista Utilities, the local power company. Competition is strong, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential system in Mead is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average 6 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of approximately **$16,800 to $21,000**. However, the net cost is significantly reduced by the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and Washington State's sales tax exemption on solar installations. The presence of reliable, local installers ensures that homeowners can effectively leverage these incentives for a strong return on investment. The market is primarily focused on grid-tied systems with a growing interest in battery storage for backup power.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Mead regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Mead, Washington.
For a typical 6kW system in Mead, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $25,000. Crucially, you can claim a 30% federal tax credit, and Washington State offers a sales tax exemption on solar installations, significantly reducing the net cost. Additionally, you are eligible for net metering through Avista Utilities, allowing you to earn bill credits for excess energy sent back to the grid.
Modern solar panels are quite efficient in cold, sunny conditions and can still generate power on cloudy days, though at a reduced rate. Snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to help shed snow, and their dark surfaces accelerate melting. Importantly, the long, sunny summer days in Eastern Washington provide abundant production that, combined with net metering credits, offsets lower winter generation.
Installing solar in Mead requires a building and electrical permit from Spokane County. Your chosen installer will typically manage this process. The system must comply with the Washington State Energy Code and be inspected by the County. You must also coordinate with Avista Utilities for interconnection approval to ensure your system is safely tied to the grid and eligible for net metering.
Look for providers who are locally established, licensed, bonded, and insured in Washington State. Check for certifications like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). Ask for references from recent installations in Spokane County and verify they handle all local permitting and utility interconnection paperwork. It's wise to get 2-3 detailed quotes to compare equipment, warranties, and projected production specific to our climate.
No. Washington State offers a valuable property tax exemption for the added value of a residential solar energy system. This means the assessed value of your home for property tax purposes will not increase due to the solar installation, protecting your investment from higher tax bills. This exemption is in addition to the state's sales tax waiver on the equipment.