Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in South Cle Elum, Washington. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A&R Solar is a regional leader with a strong reputation across Washington. They are a employee-owned company known for high-quality installations, excellent customer service, and expertise in both grid-tied and complex off-grid battery systems. They handle the entire process from design to permitting and installation.
Based in nearby Yakima, Sun Path Electric has a strong presence in Central Washington and specializes in residential solar. They are praised for their custom system design, clear communication, and deep knowledge of state and federal incentives. They offer robust financing options and partner with high-quality equipment manufacturers.
While headquartered in Western Washington, Apex Solar has a significant statewide operation and consistently serves the Cle Elum/Ellensburg corridor. They are a full-service provider offering everything from initial consultation and design to maintenance and repair. They are particularly noted for their diverse financing plans and making solar accessible.
** The home solar market in South Cle Elum is characteristic of rural Central Washington: it features a small but highly engaged local customer base served primarily by reputable regional companies from Ellensburg, Yakima, and statewide operators. The competition is not dense with dozens of local installers, but the quality of the available providers is generally very high. These companies are well-versed in the specific climatic considerations of the area, including snow load calculations and optimizing for the region's excellent sun exposure, which is better than the western side of the state. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in the South Cle Elum area is competitive with state averages, generally ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average-sized 6 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of approximately **$16,800 to $21,000**. However, after applying the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and other potential local incentives, the net cost can be significantly reduced. The market is mature, with providers offering strong warranties and a variety of financing options, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), to cater to different homeowner needs.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with South Cle Elum regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in South Cle Elum, Washington.
South Cle Elum experiences high solar productivity in summer with long, clear days, but winter snow and shorter days reduce output. Modern panels are durable and efficient in cold weather, and snow usually slides off angled panels quickly. Annual production is strong overall, with systems designed to generate surplus in summer to offset lower winter production through net metering with your utility.
The average system cost in Kittitas County ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, Washington state offers a sales tax exemption on solar installations, and the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows you to deduct 30% of the system cost from your federal taxes. Additionally, Avista Utilities' net metering program credits you for excess power sent to the grid, improving payback period.
You will need a building permit from Kittitas County, and your installer will typically handle this process. The system must comply with the Washington State Energy Code and be inspected by the county. Your installer will also manage the interconnection agreement with Avista Utilities, which is required to connect your system to the grid and participate in net metering.
Look for providers licensed, bonded, and insured in Washington with specific experience in Kittitas County. They should understand local snow load requirements and Avista's interconnection process. Check reviews, ask for local references, and verify they are a certified installer for the equipment brands they use. Local or regional companies often provide the most responsive service.
A qualified installer will first assess your roof's condition, age, and structure to ensure it can handle both the solar equipment and local snow loads. Most asphalt shingle roofs in good condition are suitable. Regarding maintenance, panels require little; rain cleans them in spring and fall, and snow typically melts and slides off. You may only need to clear heavy, persistent snow if you wish to maximize winter output.