Washington is well known for being forward thinking in terms of renewable energy. They were the second state, following Colorado to pass their Renewable Energy Standard through a ballot initiative. Their initiative calls for the state utilities to source 15% of their electricity from renewable energy sources by the year 2020. While the number is not as ambitious as California’s 33%, it is more ambitious than the majority of the country.

Geographically, and much to casual observers’ surprise, Washington is a prime candidate for solar. Despite its northern position and heavily rains, the state gets an average of 5 kilowatt hours of sunlight per square meter. The number is similar to that of other Northern states such as Maine and New York.

The state is no stranger to renewable energy incentives, and is one of the many states to offer a net metering policy to residential and business solar arrays, solar thermal electric, wind, small hydroelectric and other renewable energy applications. Under their net metering plan any excess energy generated is credited to the customer’s net bill at a retail rate. With the numerous debates around the retail rate dropping to a wholesale rate, the incentive has aided numerous renewable energy systems owners in increasing their return on investment.

In addition, Washington Utility Loan and Rebate Programs provide low-interest loans and rebate programs for photovoltaics. Rebates are set at a rate of $400 per kilowatt or up to $1,200, while loans provide financing up to $10,000 at a 4.9% interest rate. These loans are offered through the Klickitat rebate and loan program, in order to qualify participants are encouraged to contact the organization directly to get the process started.

Renewable Energy Incentives

Rules, Regulations and Policies