It’s a question we hear all the time:
“Does solar even work in Washington State”
With its famously cloudy skies and frequent rainfall, many Pacific Northwest homeowners assume solar energy isn’t a viable option. But here’s the truth:
👉 Solar absolutely works in Washington State — and it works well.
At Sunergy Systems, we’ve installed thousands of solar systems across Washington State. Here’s what you need to know about solar performance in our region’s unique climate.
1. Solar Panels Work on Cloudy Days
Modern solar panels are highly efficient — even when the sun isn’t blazing. While solar panels produce less energy during overcast days, they still generate electricity using diffused sunlight that filters through the clouds.
In fact, Germany — one of the cloudiest countries in Europe — is a global leader in solar energy production.
2. Washington State Gets More Solar Energy Than You Think
Here’s the breakdown:
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Seattle averages 3.8 peak sun hours per day
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That’s more solar resource than much of the Northeast U.S.
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And far more than you’d expect from a “rainy” city
Our team at Sunergy Systems uses satellite data to calculate your specific home’s solar exposure, ensuring your system is designed to perform efficiently year-round.
3. Pairing Solar with Battery Storage = Big Benefits
With Washington’s time-of-use rates and utility structure changes on the horizon, adding battery storage is a smart move. A Tesla Powerwall or similar battery allows you to:
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Store excess energy during daylight hours
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Power your home at night or during outages
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Maximize your self-consumption and independence
Sunergy Systems is a certified installer of battery systems that are tailor-made for our climate.
4. Solar is Still the Most Sustainable Choice
Even if your system doesn’t max out production every single day, it still dramatically reduces your:
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Electricity bill
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Carbon footprint
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Reliance on fossil fuels
And with Washington’s hydro-heavy grid, pairing it with solar gets you closer to net-zero living.
5. Incentives Make Solar Even More Worth It
Washington State and federal incentives make going solar surprisingly affordable:
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30% Federal Tax Credit (ITC)
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Sales tax exemption on solar equipment
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Net metering from local utilities, giving you full credit for energy sent to the grid
Sunergy Systems handles the paperwork and walks you through every option — so you don’t leave money on the table.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Let the Clouds Fool You
Seattle might be known for rain, but your rooftop is still a powerful place to harness clean energy. With expert system design, top-tier panels, and unmatched local experience, Sunergy Systems proves every day that solar works in the Northwest.
