Description

In March 2009, Snohomish County PUD introduced the Solar Express Program. This program provides rebates and loans to support residential and commercial installations of solar photovoltaics (PV) and solar water heating (SWH). Only residential customers can take advantage of the loan program.

Low-interest loans are available to residential customers. Loans with 2.9% APR are offered for up to $25,000 for PV and up to $14,000 for SWH. Loans are secured by placing a lien on the property. The minimum payment is $50 and the minimum loan is $1,000. The term limit for the loan is 10 years.

Interested customers must get a site assessment and bid from an approved installer, and get PUD approval prior to installation. The PUD will conduct a pre- and post-installation inspection. After the system is installed and approved by the PUD, the loan amount will be provided to the registered installer. PV systems must be interconnected and have a net metering agreement with the PUD.

There are also rebates available to both residential and commercial customers. Residential customers may take advantage of either the rebate or loan program; customers cannot use both incentives on a single project.

For more information, review the program handbook or contact Snohomish County PUD.