Addressing Energy Needs with New Construction Homes

The construction landscape evolves rapidly as sustainability becomes a top priority for builders, developers, and homeowners alike. Integrating solar panels into new construction projects is no longer just a trend but a necessity, especially with the latest building codes and Renewable Energy Credit (REC) requirements. By meeting these standards, builders can unlock numerous benefits while positioning themselves as leaders in sustainable development. Let’s explore the top benefits of incorporating solar panels into new construction projects.

Meet Compliance with Building Codes and REC Requirements

Washington State’s new building codes require homebuilders to satisfy specific REC requirements to ensure energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. By installing solar panels, builders can easily satisfy these requirements while producing 5,400 kWh of energy yearly—equivalent to 4.5 RECs.

Solar energy systems are a cost-effective pathway to compliance compared to alternatives like heat pumps or window upgrades. With upfront costs as low as $15,000, solar provides a simple and scalable solution that integrates seamlessly into the design of new homes.

Cost-Effective Solutions for Builders

Solar panels are one of the most affordable ways to enhance energy efficiency in housing developments. While alternatives like heat pumps ($25,000+) and high-efficiency windows ($60,000+) can strain budgets, a solar energy system’s $15,000 price tag offers significant savings. Builders can pass on these savings to homeowners, boosting the overall appeal of their projects.

Additionally, by working with experts like Northwest Electric and Solar, builders can design and install turnkey solar solutions tailored to meet both project budgets and compliance needs.

Boost Market Appeal and Homeowner Savings

Modern homebuyers are increasingly seeking properties equipped with sustainable and energy-efficient features. Solar panels not only increase a property’s market appeal but also offer long-term savings for homeowners. By integrating a 5.8kW solar energy system into new builds, homeowners can:

Reduce or eliminate their electricity bills

A properly sized solar energy system can significantly reduce or even eliminate monthly electricity bills. In Washington, the average household consumes about 10,800 kWh per year. With a 5.8kW solar system producing approximately 7,500 kWh annually, homeowners can offset up to 70% of their energy costs. Over a 25-year system lifespan, this can translate to tens of thousands of dollars in savings.

Take advantage of net metering benefits.

Washington’s net metering program allows homeowners to earn credits for the excess energy their solar panels produce. These credits can be applied to future electricity bills, further reducing costs. For instance, during summer months with longer daylight hours, homeowners may produce more energy than they consume, effectively rolling over their savings to cover higher usage in winter months.

Increase their property’s resale value.

Homes with solar energy systems tend to sell faster and at higher prices. According to a study by Zillow, properties with solar panels sell for an average of 4.1% more than comparable homes without solar. For a home valued at $400,000, this equates to an additional $16,400. The added value reflects not only the tangible energy savings but also the growing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient homes.

Easy Integration and Future-Proof Design

Solar panels can be seamlessly integrated into new construction projects during the design phase, ensuring they complement the home’s aesthetics and functionality. Unlike retrofitting solar onto existing homes, adding solar during construction streamlines installation, reduces costs, and enhances energy efficiency from day one.

Moreover, with energy codes evolving, homes equipped with solar panels are better positioned to meet future standards. Builders can take pride in creating future-proof homes that exceed today’s energy efficiency expectations.

SPAN: Energy Management

Detailed Insights for Smarter Energy Use

SPAN Panels provide detailed insights into energy usage at the circuit level, allowing homeowners to manage their energy consumption more effectively. This feature enables smarter decision-making to lower energy bills and is enhanced by integration with devices like Amazon Alexa for scheduling.

Flexibility and Future-Proofing

SPAN helps alleviate regulatory pressures, such as EVSE pre-wiring or solar and battery storage readiness. The SPAN PowerUp™ technology ensures homes remain compliant while avoiding costly additional electrical work. This flexibility also simplifies meeting current and evolving energy codes.

Enhanced Backup and Energy Storage

SPAN Panels work with leading battery storage systems to provide 40% longer backup durations without requiring a critical loads panel. When paired with a generator, SPAN enables extended backup times, ensuring energy reliability for homeowners.

Cost Savings Every Day

By optimizing energy usage and avoiding unnecessary electrical upgrades, SPAN products can help reduce both initial construction costs and long-term energy expenses for homeowners.

Pairing Solar with Battery Backup

Two powerwall 2 systems installed by Tesla certified installers at Northwest Electric and Solar.

Reliable and Seamless Backup

Pairing solar panels with battery storage offers homeowners a reliable backup power source during outages. This seamless integration ensures homes remain powered even when the grid is down, enhancing energy resilience and reliability.

Maximizing Incentives

Builders and homeowners can take full advantage of the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and Washington’s sales tax exemptions when incorporating battery storage with solar installations. These incentives significantly reduce the upfront costs of energy systems, making them a financially attractive option.

Increased Energy Independence

By storing excess solar energy, homeowners can reduce their reliance on the grid, further lowering utility costs. Builders can market this feature as a long-term cost-saving and energy-efficient solution.

Two wall mounted Powerwall + inside garage

Future-Ready Design

Battery storage systems integrate seamlessly with solar panels and are compatible with future energy needs, such as electric vehicle chargers and smart home systems. Builders can highlight this as a cutting-edge feature for modern homes.

Incentives for New Construction

Federal Incentives:

Builders can use the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) to significantly reduce the upfront costs of solar installations and battery storage systems by 30% until 2032.

State Incentives:

Washington offers sales tax exemptions on qualifying renewable energy systems, further lowering costs for builders and homeowners.

REC Opportunities:

Solar installations contribute to satisfying REC requirements, adding another layer of compliance and financial benefit.

Installing in New Constructions

Adding solar, battery, and SPAN systems during the building process streamlines integration and reduces overall costs. Early implementation allows builders to design homes with optimized energy efficiency, eliminating the need for costly retrofits. By incorporating these technologies from the start, builders ensure:

  • Seamless compatibility between systems.
  • Improved energy performance from day one.
  • Enhanced market appeal with smart, future-ready features.

This approach also positions builders as leaders in sustainable development, meeting the growing demand for eco-friendly and energy-efficient housing.

Why Partner with Northwest Electric and Solar?

At Northwest Electric and Solar, we specialize in providing turnkey solar solutions for builders. Our REC solar package includes:

  • A 5.8kW solar energy system.
  • Real-time energy monitoring.
  • Made-in-Washington solar panels.
  • Expert assistance with REC documentation and compliance.

Our team ensures a seamless process from design to installation, helping builders meet compliance requirements and deliver high-quality solar-powered homes.

user profile image for Manuel Larrain
Manuel Larrain
Manuel Larrain is a Chilean-born US citizen who studied business and sustainability at Western Washington University. Solar energy is his passion, as it is transforming how Washingtonians power their lifestyle. He believes we can address climate change, environmental justice, and steward a brighter future for all of us through renewable energy.