Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in REI, Washington. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A&R Solar is a regional leader and employee-owned cooperative known for high-quality installations and exceptional customer service. They are a certified B Corporation, reflecting their commitment to social and environmental performance. They handle the entire process from design to permitting and installation, with deep expertise in both grid-tied and battery storage systems.
Based in Spokane, Northwest Renewables has been serving Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho for over two decades. They are known for their custom system designs and strong partnerships with top-tier manufacturers like Panasonic and Enphase. They offer comprehensive support, including financing guidance and ongoing system monitoring.
Solterra is a local provider specializing in residential and commercial solar in the Inland Northwest. They pride themselves on personalized service and making the solar process straightforward. Their services include everything from initial consultation and design to installation, maintenance, and helping clients navigate state and federal incentives.
** The home solar market in the REI area and Eastern Washington is robust and highly competitive, driven by the region's exceptional number of sunny days and favorable state incentives, including sales tax exemptions and net metering policies. The average quality of providers is high, with many holding national certifications like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). Competition is strong among established regional and local companies, which helps maintain high service standards. Typical pricing for a residential system ranges from $15,000 to $30,000 before incentives, with the final cost heavily dependent on system size, panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) significantly reduces the net cost for homeowners. Due to REI's rural nature, providers are well-versed in designing systems suitable for a variety of property types, including larger lots common in the area.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with REI regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in REI, Washington.
For a typical 6kW system in REI, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $25,000. Crucially, Washington residents benefit from the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which covers 30% of the system cost, and Washington State's sales tax exemption on solar installations. Additionally, you may be eligible for net metering through your local utility, Puget Sound Energy, allowing you to earn credits for excess power generated.
Yes, solar is highly effective in REI and Western Washington. Modern panels efficiently generate power from diffuse daylight, not just direct sun. While summer is peak production season, the long daylight hours compensate for cloudier winters. Importantly, our mild temperatures actually improve panel efficiency compared to hotter regions, and systems are designed to produce ample annual energy to offset a significant portion of your electricity bill.
In REI, your solar installer will typically manage the entire permitting process. This includes securing an electrical permit from King County, a building permit from the City of Renton (if applicable to your jurisdiction), and coordinating the interconnection agreement with Puget Sound Energy. Washington State has streamlined solar permitting rules, and local jurisdictions follow the State Building Code, which includes clear guidelines for residential solar PV systems.
Prioritize providers who are locally established, licensed, bonded, and insured in Washington State. Look for certifications like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). Ask for references from recent installations in King County and verify they handle all local permitting and utility interconnection. It's also wise to get multiple detailed quotes that outline equipment brands, production estimates, and warranty terms.
From contract to activation, the process typically takes 2 to 4 months in the REI area. The timeline includes system design, securing permits from King County/City of Renton (which can take several weeks), scheduling installation (often 1-3 days), and finally the city inspection and Puget Sound Energy's approval for interconnection (PTO). Seasonal weather can cause minor delays, so starting in spring or summer can ensure a smoother process.