Why go solar?
Lower bills, a long-lived investment and cleaner power for the islands, installed by a local crew.
- Since 1989
- Licensed WA general & electrical contractor
- Locally owned & operated
Lower bills
Depending on your annual use and the space you have for an array, solar can offset much or all of the energy you buy from the grid. On OPALCO’s net metering, power you send back earns a credit on your bill.
OPALCO’s fixed monthly service access charge still applies, even with solar. How net metering works.
Return on investment
Savings on your electric bill, together with Washington’s sales and use tax exemption for solar, go toward paying off a system that is expected to last 25 years or more.
Renewable energy
Demand for electricity in Washington keeps growing, while hydropower, the state’s main source, faces pressure from drought, renegotiated water treaties and the need to protect orcas and salmon. Solar on your property helps meet that demand with renewable power instead of natural gas or coal.
Increased home value
A 2015 study from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that home buyers have been willing to pay more for homes with solar.
Support a local business
Rainshadow Solar & Energy Solutions is a locally owned and operated small business based on Orcas Island. Our whole crew lives in San Juan County, including licensed electricians and electrical trainees.
Thinking about adding a battery too?
Solar only makes power when the sun is out. A battery lets you keep it for the evening, or for the next outage.
