Fair value for solar

Solar panel cost in Bellevue, WA (2026)

A typical Bellevue home needs about a 11.7 kW system (~29 panels), costing roughly $34,515 upfront. The 30% federal credit ended for purchases on Dec 31, 2025 (a lease/PPA can still pass it through). At 3.42 peak sun hours and Washington's 11.1¢/kWh rate, it pays back in about 26.7 years and saves an estimated $9,405 over 25 years.

System size
11.7 kW
Net cost
$34,515
Payback
26.7 yrs
25-yr savings
$9,405

Estimate your savings in Bellevue

Preset to Bellevue's local sunlight. Adjust your monthly bill for a personalized estimate.

$108
Recommended system
11.7 kW
Est. net cost (cash)
$34,515
Payback period
26.6 yrs
Est. monthly savings
$108
25-year net savings
$9,541
Bill offset
100%
Fair value in BellevueBased on a 11.7 kW system at $3/W, 3.42 peak sun hours, and a 11.1¢/kWh rate.

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See actual prices from vetted local installers — including lease and PPA options that still capture the 30% credit in 2026. Free, no obligation.

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Annual electricity use11,676 kWh
Annual solar production11,684 kWh
Gross system cost$34,515
Federal tax credit (purchase)Ended Dec 2025
State / local incentives
30% via lease/PPA instead~$10,355 value
CO₂ avoided per year4.1 tons (~68 trees)

Estimates only — not a quote or financial advice. See our methodology.

What makes Bellevue different

Bellevue (population ~139,820) gets 3.42 peak sun hours per day — that's 10% less sunny than the Washington average of 3.8. Slightly less local sunlight means panels produce a touch less than the state average, so sizing and orientation matter. Electricity rates, net metering, and incentives are set at the Washington level: residents pay about 11.1¢/kWh, and full net metering + sales tax exemption.

City peak sun hours3.42 hrs/day
Recommended system size11.7 kW (~29 panels)
Installed price per watt$3/W
Gross system cost$34,515
Federal tax credit (purchase)Ended Dec 31, 2025
State / local incentives
Net cash cost$34,515
30% credit via lease/PPA~$10,355 value
Annual energy produced11,684 kWh
Estimated year-1 savings$1,292
Payback period26.7 years
25-year net savings$9,405
CO₂ avoided per year4.1 tons (~68 trees)

Compare with the Washington state average (10.5 kW, $30,975 net, 24-yr payback). Modeled estimates, June 2026 — not a quote. See methodology.

Compare real solar quotes in Bellevue, WA

See actual prices from vetted local installers — including lease and PPA options that still capture the 30% credit in 2026. Free, no obligation.

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Solar in Bellevue: FAQ

How much do solar panels cost in Bellevue?
A typical 11.7 kW home system in Bellevue costs about $34,515 before incentives. With no federal credit on a 2026 purchase, the net cash cost is roughly $34,515. The 30% federal tax credit ended for purchases on Dec 31, 2025, though a lease or PPA can still pass through a 30% credit (~$10,355).
Is solar worth it in Bellevue?
With 3.42 peak sun hours a day and Washington's 11.1¢/kWh electricity rate, a system in Bellevue pays back in about 26.7 years and returns an estimated $9,405 over 25 years — a fair-value result.
How many solar panels do homes in Bellevue need?
To offset typical usage, a Bellevue home needs roughly a 11.7 kW system — about 29 modern 410-watt panels. Your exact count depends on roof space, shading, and your actual electricity use.
What rebates and tax credits apply in Bellevue?
The 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit ended for purchases on Dec 31, 2025. A lease or PPA can still capture a 30% credit (~$10,355 on this system) passed through by the provider. Statewide, Full net metering + sales tax exemption.

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