How does a Solar Panel System perform in Spokane?

New Solar Panel Install

Journey to a Net Zero Home

We decided to embark on an eco-friendly journey by installing a photovoltaic (PV) solar system designed and installed by Solgen Power. With 16 panels connected to our power company's grid, we opted for a grid-tied system, eliminating the need for battery storage.

Off-Grid Solar Options

For rural areas, the alternative to a grid-tied system is an off-grid home. These homes rely on several interconnected batteries to store power for nighttime use or during high-demand periods. Off-grid homes often require backup heating and generator sources to ensure a consistent energy supply.
Our Solar System Setup

Our PV system is installed on a newer home that wasn’t originally designed for solar. Only four of the solar panels face directly south, while the rest face east and west. The panel slope is lower than recommended for our area, a consideration we discussed before proceeding with the project. A steeper slope would have captured more sunlight and allowed snow to slide off more easily.

System Performance and Net Zero Ambitions

Since spring 2022, our PV system has been operational, designed by Solgen to achieve net-zero energy consumption based on our annual electrical load. In fact, Solgen estimated our system would generate 110% of our energy needs annually. Over the past few years, we've experienced a small surplus in PV production.

Understanding Net Zero

A net-zero house generates as much energy as it consumes over a year, resulting in a net energy bill of zero. While our system is designed to meet this goal, we still incur a $50/month connection fee from our power utility, which banks our surplus energy for an annual credit in March. It's essential to check with your local state and power company for specific details, as utilities are increasingly working with state regulators to pay for only a percentage of the surplus power.

Solar Performance in Spokane

Spring and Fall: During these seasons, energy production exceeds our power usage requirements, allowing us to bank energy credits for the year.

Summer: A hot summer with air conditioning results in energy production nearly matching our consumption. Although this is when we generate the most power, our mid-efficiency AC and home insulation from 15 years ago led to slightly disappointing results.

Winter: Solar production is low throughout winter. Overcast days and snow-covered panels may result in zero energy production. As our salesman advised, we avoid climbing on the roof to sweep the panels, trusting that the other seasons will offset winter’s shortcomings.

Updated: 02.24.2025