Solar panel installation in Seattle

Harnessing the Power of the Sun: The Ultimate Guide to Solar Panel Installation in Seattle

Seattle, known for its lush landscapes and eco-conscious community, is rapidly becoming a beacon for renewable energy, with solar panel installations leading the charge. This comprehensive guide is designed for homeowners and businesses in Seattle contemplating making the switch to solar power. We’ll explore the benefits, the installation process, and provide answers to frequently asked questions.

What people are saying

Client Testimonials

The Unmatched Benefits of Solar Panels in Seattle

  • Economic Savings: The most immediate benefit of installing solar panels is the significant reduction in your electricity bills. Over time, the savings accrued will more than offset the initial cost of installation, making solar panels a wise investment for the future.
  • Increased Home Value. Solar panels have been proven to enhance home value. Numerous studies indicate that homes equipped with solar panels tend to command approximately 4% higher selling prices compared to comparable homes without solar installations in our state.
  • Sustainability: Solar energy is clean and renewable. By choosing solar panels, you’re playing a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmental sustainability.

Energy Independence: Solar panels provide the remarkable advantage of energy independence. By generating your own electricity, you’re less dependent on the municipal power grid and protected against fluctuating energy prices.

Navigating the Solar Panel Installation Process

  1. Initial Consultation and Site Assessment: A professional installer will first assess your energy consumption and site conditions to determine the best system size, panel placement, and installation plan tailored to your property’s specific needs.
  2. Design and Permitting: Following the assessment, a customized solar panel system design will be created. The installer will also navigate the permitting process required by regulations once you’re ready to move forward with. 
  3. Installation: Experienced licensed electricians will install the solar panels, typically completing the process within a few days. They ensure everything is set up efficiently and safely, with minimal disruption to your daily life.

Inspection and Activation: After installation, the system undergoes a final inspection by local authorities. Once approved, your solar panel system is activated, immediately starting to generate electricity.

Washington State

Solar Incentives

30% Federal Tax Credit

100% Sales Tax Exemption

Net Metering

Accelerated Depreciation

ENERGY CODE CREDITS

Will solar panels work well in Seattle’s cloudy weather?

Yes! Solar panels can generate power even on cloudy days. Seattle’s daylight hours provide sufficient sunlight year-round, making it a suitable location for solar energy generation.

What are the financial incentives for going solar in Seattle?

Seattle residents can benefit from federal tax credits, state incentives, and net metering policies, which can significantly reduce the overall cost and increase the return on investment of solar panel systems.

How long does it take to install solar panels? 

Most residential solar panel installations in Seattle are completed within a few days after the permits are obtained and the site is prepared.

Do solar panels require a lot of maintenance?

Solar panels require minimal maintenance. Keeping them clean and clear of debris is generally all that’s needed to ensure optimal performance.

How long will my solar panel system last? 

Solar panel systems are designed to be durable and long-lasting, with many systems operating efficiently for 25 years or more.

Solar Systems

What we offer

Roof System

This is the most cost-effective application, which in turn provides the best return on your investment. Solar panels are more efficient than ever! Couple that with a 30% income tax credit, there’s never been a better time to install solar panels on your home.

Ground system

Rooftop solar is not your only option for panel placement, and sometimes is not the best option. If you have the space for it, a ground mount solar array offers the opportunity to install more solar than what may fit on your roof. In addition to being easier to clean, ground-mount solar will typically run more efficiently since the system operates under less heat creating less friction as the solar energy transfers to your home electrical system.

BATTERY BACKUP SOLUTIONS

Considering a backup source for power during a power outage? Adding battery backup to your solar project is a great way to store energy for those stormy days, and eliminates the need to maintain a gas engine like a generator. These batteries run noise free and automatically transfer power when needed. And YES, these do also qualify for the 30% federal income tax credit!

We are the premier commercial, residential, and new construction solar company in Washington State.

FAQs

How long does the solar panel installation process take with MAD Energy NW? 

The timeline for solar panel installation can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. Typically, the process from initial consultation to activation ranges from 4 to 8 weeks. The installation itself can range from 2-5 days depending. We strive to ensure a smooth and efficient process, keeping you informed every step of the way.

Will MAD Energy NW assist with navigating government incentives and rebates for solar panel installation? 

Absolutely! We understand that navigating the incentives and rebates available for solar panel installation can be complex. MAD Energy NW’s team of experts will guide you through the available federal, state, and local incentives, helping you maximize your investment in solar energy.

With all of the misleading information online about solar panels, how do I know who to trust? 

It’s crucial to choose a solar installation company with a solid reputation and a track record of success. Look for local companies like MAD Energy NW that are transparent about their qualifications, certifications, and customer testimonials. We encourage you to research our projects, read reviews from our clients, and even reach out to us with any questions. Education and open communication are key, and we’re here to provide accurate, up-to-date information to help you make an informed decision.

Can solar panels significantly reduce my energy bills? 

Yes, installing solar panels can significantly reduce, or in some cases, virtually eliminate your electricity bills. The exact savings depend on various factors such as your energy usage, the size of your solar system, and the amount of sunlight your property receives. Our team can provide you with a personalized estimate of your potential savings during our initial consultation.

Does MAD Energy NW offer solutions for solar energy storage?

Yes, MAD Energy NW provides cutting-edge solar energy storage solutions, including battery backups. These systems allow you to store energy to be used during a power outage. As time-of-use rates are implemented, excess energy generated during the day can be used when rates are at their peak, enhancing your energy independence and ensuring a continuous power supply.

Install

What's Included

solar panels

panels

Solar panels, also known as modules within the industry, convert sunlight into electricity using the photovoltaic effect.

inverters

Solar Inverters convert the direct current power produced by the modules, into an alternating current to be used.

racking

Solar racking is the mounting system that supports and secures the panels to the roof or ground structure.

Batteries

Solar Batteries are used to store electricity generated by the solar panels for those times when the utility power drops out.

Investing in solar panels in Seattle is not just an environmentally conscious decision; it’s a financially savvy one as well. With the benefits of reduced utility bills, contributing to a sustainable future, and achieving energy independence, solar energy is a win-win for Seattle homeowners and businesses. Ready to make the switch? Start your journey to solar today and light up your life with the power of the sun.

Work You Can Believe In

The Mad Energy Solar Warranty

25-30 Year Solar Panel Production Warranty

12-25 Year Inverter and Optimizer Warranty

25 Year Racking Warranty

10 Year Workmanship Warranty

10 Year Battery Warranty

a workman carrying a large solar panel at a green house construction site

Ground System

Ground mount systems are the best solution for large applications and utility scale generation plants.  With these large systems the scale makes up for additional costs developing and securing a piece of land for a solar array.  Additional ground mount costs are installing new structure for the solar panels, and trenching underground electrical feeders back to the nearest utility service.  Small residential and commercial size ground mount systems cost more than rooftop applications but many home and business owners prefer to locate their solar arrays on poles or ground racks in a vacant field or un-used yard.  If choosing to install ground mount solar panels we recommend thinking about maintenance, including mowing around, or under your array, weed control and protection from people and animals by fencing or elevating the array on poles.

Solar Panels

Solar panels, also known as modules within the industry, convert sunlight into electricity using the photovoltaic effect.  PV, short for Photovoltaic, is solar electricity.  Solar panels today come in two general sizes, 60 cell, 5-1/2’ x 3-1/2’ most often for residential and 72 cell, 6-1/2’ x 3-1/2’ most often for commercial but they are widely used interchangeably.  There are many varieties and unique options, but these are the traditional, most widely used panel types.  Solar panels come with black or silver frames for aesthetic purposes and there are countless manufacturers.  We lead with only the best available panels on the market today to ensure our customers have the most bankable, long-term, reliable and proven options for your solar investment.  Your design consultant will discuss these options with you and recommend the panel that best meets your project goals and preferences.

Inverters

For solar modules to produce AC power that can be used by homes and businesses, solar inverters are essential. They function as the system’s brains and are matched to your service voltage. They have data logging capabilities and internet connections for tracking system output.

Today’s inverters regulate each solar panel on the roof using a rapid shutdown safety feature that is mandated by current rooftop system codes.

String inverters with DC optimizers and microinverters are the industry standard for rooftop solar arrays due to their shading and string sizing benefits, eliminating reduced production from the intermittent shade and string design challenges.

Solar Racking

Solar racking is the mounting system that supports and secures the solar panels to the roof or ground structure.  Racking must be UL listed for its intended purpose while providing an electrical grounding path.  Most racking rails are anodized aluminum for light-weight strength and corrosion resistance.  Racking systems are designed to safely and structurally mount solar panels to any structure.  They are engineered to meet local codes just like the building and roof structure itself.  They are engineered to withstand the worst-case scenario weather events for the location and jurisdiction where they will be permitted and installed.