Solar in Spokane: Eastern Washington's Sunny Advantage

Solar in Spokane

Many people assume Washington State is universally cloudy, but Spokane tells a different story. Located east of the Cascade Mountains, Spokane enjoys a high desert climate with significantly more sunshine than Seattle. This makes the Lilac City one of Washington's most favorable markets for residential solar.

Eastern WA Advantage

Why Spokane Outperforms Seattle

The Cascade Mountain Range creates a rain shadow effect that keeps Eastern Washington significantly drier and sunnier than the Puget Sound region. While Seattle deals with persistent marine clouds, Spokane enjoys a continental climate with distinct seasons and abundant sunshine.

Spokane vs Other Cities

Avista Utilities

Avista Utilities is the primary electric provider for Spokane and much of Eastern Washington. They offer a straightforward net metering program that credits solar homeowners at retail rates.

Avista Net Metering Program

• Net metering: Full retail credit for excess production
• Credit rollover: Monthly and annual rollover with April true-up
• System size limit: Up to 100 kW for residential
• Rates: ~$0.09-0.11/kWh (among lowest in WA)
• Interconnection: Standard process, typically 2-4 weeks

Rate Considerations

Avista's electricity rates are among the lowest in Washington, which affects solar economics. Lower rates mean longer payback periods on paper, but also mean lower monthly bills to begin with. Many Spokane homeowners go solar for long-term savings, energy independence, and environmental values.

Spokane Solar Costs

Average System Costs

Federal 25D residential credit ended Dec 31, 2025. PPA/Lease still benefits from 30% through 2027.

Washington State Incentives

• No state tax credit: WA has no income tax
• Sales tax exemption: 100% on solar equipment
• Property tax exemption: Solar value excluded from property tax
• PPA/Lease: Still includes federal 30% through 2027
• Net metering: Full retail credit through Avista

Spokane Payback Estimates

• Cash purchase: 10-14 year payback (better than Seattle)
• Solar loan: 12-16 years depending on rate
• PPA/Lease: Day-one savings, no upfront cost

Local Factors

Spokane-Specific Considerations

• Snow load: Roofs must handle 45" annual snowfall; panels add minimal weight
• Cold temperatures: Actually improve panel efficiency
• Roof orientation: South-facing ideal; west-facing works for afternoon peak
• Tree coverage: Less dense than Western WA, but check for shading
• Wildfire smoke: Late summer smoke can temporarily reduce production

Seasonal Production Pattern

• Peak months: May through August (longest days, clear skies)
• Winter production: 30-40% of summer, but steady on clear days
• Annual production: 1,250-1,400 kWh per kW installed
• 7 kW system: ~8,750-9,800 kWh/year

Battery Considerations

Spokane experiences occasional power outages during winter storms. A battery backup provides peace of mind for essential loads. However, Avista's grid is generally reliable, so batteries are optional rather than essential for most homeowners.

The Bottom Line

Spokane is Eastern Washington's solar sweet spot. With significantly more sunshine than Seattle, reasonable installation costs, and Avista's net metering program, Spokane homeowners can expect 10-14 year paybacks—competitive with many parts of the country. The four-season climate with cold, clear winters actually benefits solar performance. If you're in Spokane considering solar, you're in one of the better Pacific Northwest markets for it.