Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Yelm, Washington. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A&R Solar is a highly regarded, employee-owned company based in Olympia, making it one of the closest and most dedicated providers for the Yelm area. They are known for their high-quality installations, exceptional customer service, and expertise in both grid-tied and battery storage systems. They are a certified B Corporation, reflecting their commitment to social and environmental performance.
Sun Path Electric is a veteran-owned and operated solar contractor serving the South Puget Sound, including Thurston County where Yelm is located. They receive consistent praise for their professional and clean installations, detailed communication, and expertise in navigating local permits and incentives. They offer comprehensive services from design to maintenance.
Artisan Electric is a well-established, full-service electrical and solar contractor based in Olympia. They have a long history in the region and are known for their technical expertise and quality craftsmanship. They provide a wide range of services, making them a great option for homeowners who may also need electrical panel upgrades or whole-home energy solutions alongside their solar installation.
** The home solar market in Yelm, Washington, is served by a select group of high-quality regional contractors rather than a high volume of local, in-city competitors. The competition is moderate but characterized by a high standard of quality. Residents of Yelm benefit from the proximity to Olympia, the state capital, which has a strong solar industry presence. Key players like A&R Solar and Artisan Electric are based in Olympia, ensuring local knowledge of permitting, grid connection (with Puget Sound Energy), and weather considerations. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in Yelm is competitive with the national average, ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. This translates to a gross cost of approximately **$21,000 to $35,000** for a typical 7-10 kW system. However, the excellent state incentives significantly reduce the net cost. Washington State has no sales tax on solar installations, and its production incentive program (until 2029) can provide a credit of up to $0.25 per kWh for the first 10 years, making the return on investment very attractive. The top providers are all highly proficient in helping homeowners maximize these federal and state financial incentives.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Yelm regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Yelm, Washington.
Solar panels are very effective in Yelm and throughout Western Washington. Modern panels generate electricity from daylight, not just direct sunlight, and perform well in diffuse light conditions. While summer production is highest, our long summer days provide excellent generation, and systems are sized to produce enough annual power to offset your usage, even with cloudy winters. Washington's net metering policy also allows you to bank summer credits to use during darker months.
The average gross cost for a residential solar system in the Yelm area typically ranges from $20,000 to $35,000 before incentives, depending on system size. Crucially, you are eligible for the 30% federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which significantly reduces the net cost. Washington State also offers a sales tax exemption on solar installations and, combined with net metering from your utility (like Puget Sound Energy), these incentives make solar a strong financial investment with a compelling payback period.
Yes, you will need an electrical and building permit from the City of Yelm's Community Development Department. Reputable local installers will manage this entire permitting process for you. Yelm may have specific guidelines regarding structural load on roofs and aesthetic considerations, but generally does not prohibit residential solar. Your installer will also handle the interconnection agreement with your utility, which is a mandatory step.
Look for providers with strong local experience, as they will be familiar with Yelm's permit process, utility requirements, and optimal system designs for our climate. Key steps include verifying they are a licensed, bonded, and insured Washington electrical contractor (check their L&I number), reading local reviews, and getting multiple detailed quotes. Ask for local references and examples of recent installations in Thurston County to assess their work quality and customer service.
Solar systems require minimal maintenance. Seasonal rain naturally cleans panels, but occasional checking for debris (like pine needles or leaves) is advised. Panels are installed at an angle to shed snow and rain effectively, and are rated to withstand Washington's weather, including heavy rain and wind. You should monitor your system's production via its app; a significant, sustained drop may indicate an issue requiring a professional inspection, which is often included in a warranty.