Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Rice, Washington. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A&R Solar is a leading regional installer with a strong reputation for high-quality residential and commercial solar installations. They are a certified B Corporation and an employee-owned company, emphasizing their commitment to ethical business and quality workmanship. They handle the entire process from design to permitting and installation.
Solora Solar is a locally-owned and operated company based in Spokane, known for its personalized customer service and expertise in the specific climate of Eastern Washington. They focus on custom-designed systems and are well-versed in the available local and state incentives.
Inland Solar has been a staple in the Spokane and North Idaho renewable energy market for years. They offer a comprehensive suite of services from initial consultation to long-term maintenance. Their longevity in the business speaks to their reliability and customer satisfaction.
The home solar market for residents of Rice, Washington, is served by regional providers primarily based in Spokane (approximately a 60-70 minute drive). The competition level is moderate, with a handful of established, high-quality companies dominating the market in Northeastern Washington. These providers are highly experienced with the specific climatic conditions, including snow loads and seasonal sun exposure. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with state and national averages, generally ranging from **$15,000 to $35,000+** before incentives, heavily dependent on system size and complexity. Customers in this rural area should specifically inquire about travel fees for consultations, maintenance, and repairs. All reputable local installers are proficient in navigating Washington State's sales tax exemption and the federal investment tax credit (ITC), which significantly reduce the net cost.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Rice regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Rice, Washington.
Rice's climate is excellent for solar. While winter snow can temporarily reduce production, panels are installed at an angle to shed snow efficiently, and the cold temperatures actually improve panel efficiency. The abundant, clear-sky sunshine from late spring through early fall generates significant power, often creating surplus credits with your utility (Avista) to offset winter usage. Proper system sizing accounts for these seasonal variations.
For a typical Rice home, a solar system currently costs between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, Washington State offers a sales tax exemption on solar installations and a state production incentive (until 2029) that pays you for every kilowatt-hour you produce. Combined with the 30% federal tax credit, these incentives can reduce your net cost by 40-50%, improving the payback period significantly.
Your installer will typically handle all local permitting. In Rice/Lincoln County, this involves a building and electrical permit from the county. The critical step is interconnection with Avista Utilities. Your provider will submit the application, and Avista will review and approve the system design before installation and conduct a final inspection before granting "Permission to Operate," which allows you to send power back to the grid.
Prioritize providers with extensive experience in Eastern Washington, as they understand local snow loads, wiring codes, and Avista's specific requirements. Verify they are Washington State-licensed electrical contractors (check L&I). Ask for references from recent installations in Lincoln or nearby Spokane counties and confirm they handle the full process, including permits, interconnection, and incentive paperwork.
A proper installation by a licensed contractor includes a structural assessment to ensure your roof can handle the added weight, which is minimal. Mounting systems are engineered for local snow loads. Maintenance is minimal; panels are durable and require only occasional cleaning. Snow usually slides off angled panels, and any remaining meltwater helps clean them. Most reputable installers offer robust warranties (25+ years on panels, 10+ years on workmanship).