Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Preston, Washington. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A&R Solar is a leading regional, employee-owned installer known for high-quality installations and exceptional customer service. They are a certified B Corporation and have deep expertise in both grid-tied and complex off-grid/battery storage systems. They are known for their meticulous design process and use of top-tier equipment.
Solterra is a well-established, local solar provider serving the greater Puget Sound area. They are highly regarded for their customer-centric approach, transparent pricing, and expertise in navigating local incentives and interconnection agreements with utilities like Puget Sound Energy.
Artisan Electric is a highly respected electrical and solar contractor known for their technical expertise and craftsmanship. As a full-service electrical company, they are exceptionally qualified for integrating solar with home electrical systems, main panel upgrades, and ensuring code-compliant, safe installations.
** The home solar market in and around Preston, Washington, is characterized by high-quality, competitive regional installers rather than large national chains. The market is mature, with several companies boasting over a decade of experience. The competitive landscape drives a strong focus on customer service, technical expertise, and knowledge of Washington State's specific incentives, notably the **Sales Tax Exemption** (no sales tax on solar installations) and the **Net Metering** program offered by Puget Sound Energy. **Average Quality:** The average quality is high, with most top-tier providers employing NABCEP-certified (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) installers and offering premium equipment from manufacturers like Tesla, Enphase, and REC. **Competition Level:** Moderate to High. While Preston itself is a small market, it sits in the affluent and environmentally conscious Greater Seattle area, attracting several well-established contractors. Competition is based on reputation, technical capability (especially with battery storage), and customer experience rather than just price. **Typical Pricing:** As a rough estimate, the average gross cost for a residential solar system in Washington ranges from **$3.00 to $4.50 per watt** before the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). A typical 6 kW system might have a gross cost between $18,000 and $27,000. The final cost is highly dependent on system size, equipment choices, roof complexity, and electrical upgrades. All reputable companies provide free, detailed quotes.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Preston regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Preston, Washington.
While Preston has fewer annual sun hours than sunnier states, modern solar panels are highly efficient at converting diffuse light, making them a viable investment here. Energy production will be highest during the long summer days and lower during the short, cloudy winter months; a properly sized system is designed to account for this seasonal variation. Importantly, Washington's net metering program allows you to bank excess summer credits with Puget Sound Energy (PSE) to offset your winter usage, ensuring year-round savings.
The gross cost for a typical residential system in our region ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, you are eligible for the 30% federal solar tax credit and Washington State's sales tax exemption on solar installations, significantly reducing the net cost. With these incentives and PSE's net metering, most Preston homeowners see a payback period of 8-12 years, followed by decades of reduced or eliminated electricity bills.
Yes, you will need to obtain an electrical permit from King County and possibly a building permit, which a reputable local installer will typically manage for you. Washington State law (RCW 64.38.055) protects your right to install solar, prohibiting HOAs from enacting covenants that unreasonably restrict installations, though they can have reasonable aesthetic guidelines. It's always wise to review your specific HOA covenants and communicate your plans.
Prioritize providers with strong local experience in King County, as they will be familiar with PSE's interconnection process, local inspectors, and regional installation challenges like roof pitches for our winter snow loads. Look for certified (NABCEP), licensed, and insured installers, and always request multiple detailed quotes, check local references, and review warranties for both equipment and workmanship.
Minimal maintenance is required. Seasonal rain helps clean panels, but pollen and debris from surrounding trees may require an occasional rinse. Snow in Preston is typically light and melts quickly; panels are installed at an angle to encourage shedding, and their dark surface accelerates melting. It is generally recommended to let snow clear naturally, as attempting removal can be dangerous and risks damaging the panels.