Washington / Kelso
Is solar worth it in Kelso?
PUD No 1 of Cowlitz County averages 8.8¢/kWh. With 3.8 peak sun hours a day, a typical 9.3 kW system makes ~10,370 kWh a year and saves about $912 in year one.
No federal tax credit is included. The 30% homeowner credit (IRS §25D) ended for systems installed after Dec 31, 2025. What changed in 2026 →
How Kelso compares
That is slower than the Washington average of 15.3 years, mainly because Kelso's rate is below the state average of 12.3¢/kWh. Your own payback depends on your bill: enter your ZIP and monthly bill above for your number.
| Nearby city | Rate | Payback | 25-yr net |
|---|---|---|---|
| Longview | 8.8¢ | 20.6 yrs | $7,682 |
| Ridgefield | 10.4¢ | 18.2 yrs | $13,766 |
| Battle Ground | 10.4¢ | 18.2 yrs | $13,766 |
| Vancouver | 10.4¢ | 17.4 yrs | $15,172 |
| Camas | 10.4¢ | 17.4 yrs | $15,172 |
| Centralia | 9.5¢ | 19.5 yrs | $10,251 |
| Washougal | 10.4¢ | 17.4 yrs | $15,172 |
| Yelm | 14.6¢ | 13.8 yrs | $29,714 |
Questions
How long does solar take to pay off in Kelso, WA?
About 20.6 years for a typical 9.3 kW system at 8.8 cents/kWh, assuming $2.75/W installed, full net metering and 3% yearly rate increases, with no federal tax credit.
Is solar worth it in Kelso?
Usually not on electricity savings alone. Our estimate is $912 saved in year one and $7,682 net over 25 years after paying for the system.
How much does a solar system cost in Kelso?
A 9.3 kW system sized for an average home (863 kWh/month) is about $25,575 before any local rebates, at $2.75 per watt. Real quotes vary by roof and installer.
Is there a federal solar tax credit in 2026?
Not for homeowners who buy their system. The 30% Residential Clean Energy Credit (IRS section 25D) does not apply to installations completed after December 31, 2025. State rebates, SRECs and utility incentives may still apply.
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