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Solar Energy

Renewable Energy
Solar Energy


Does Solar Energy Work in Seattle?


Absolutely!

Seattle City Light customers are installing solar equipment on their homes and businesses - and in greater numbers every year. While we are known for our cloudy skies, Seattle receives more sunlight than Germany, the world's leading solar market.


Types of Solar Energy Systems


Solar energy can be used to produce electricity or heat water…

Solar Electric Systems (also called Photovoltaic or "PV" systems) convert sunlight directly into electricity you can use in your home or business. With a solar electric system, you pay less for electricity from Seattle City Light. If your system produces more electricity than you need at any given time, it will supply the grid, spinning your utility meter backwards. This process is called "net metering."

Solar Hot Water Systems use the sun's heat to preheat water before it enters your conventional water heater. With a solar water heater, you pay less for the electricity or natural gas that you normally use to heat your water.


Is Solar Right for You?


Installing a solar system on your property may make sense if you…
  • own your home or commercial property;
  • have a suitable shade-free area for solar collectors (such as roof space in sound condition); and
  • are interested in making a long-term investment to reduce your environmental impact.
Learn more about installing Solar Electric Systems

However, whether it's the cost, or access to a sunny space, we understand that solar energy doesn't work on every home.

Community Solar opportunities are emerging to overcome these barriers to solar energy use. Just as a P-patch affords the bounty of a garden to those without their own space at home, Community Solar can provide solar energy and its associated financial benefits to a multitude of participants.

Learn more about Community Solar
Contact an Energy Advisor
(206) 684-3800

SCLEnergyAdvisor@seattle.gov

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Learn about Community Solar


Guide to Installing a Solar Electric System

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Seattle Solar City Street

Additional Resource - CAM 420 - Solar Electric Systems This document is in Adobe Acrobat format
 
   


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