Solar Panel Cost in Washington DC
Washington DC has among the strongest solar incentive programs in the country. With electricity rates of $0.155/kWh and 4.5 peak sun hours, solar delivers a solid 7–8 year payback for DC homeowners and renters who own their homes.
The average 8 kW solar system in DC costs $26,000–$29,000 installed before incentives. After the 30% federal ITC, net cost drops to $18,200–$20,300. DC also offers Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) through its RPS program — one of the most generous SREC markets in the US, adding $500–$1,500/year in additional income for DC solar owners.
DC Solar Incentives
DC homeowners can access: 30% federal ITC + DC SREC market ($150–$400/SREC) + DC property tax exemption + DC Clean Energy DC Omnibus Amendment Act incentives. The SREC income makes DC one of the highest-value solar markets per kWh generated in the eastern US.
Net Metering in DC
Pepco (the primary DC utility) offers full retail net metering. Excess solar production earns credits at the full retail rate of $0.155/kWh, which roll forward month to month. Annual true-up in October.