Building Trust in Clean Energy
Washington’s new Solar Consumer Protection Bill (SHB 2156) was created to make the solar buying process clearer, safer, and more transparent for homeowners. For many, going solar has felt confusing, especially when door-to-door sales pitches were vague or contracts left out important details. This new law aims to fix that by establishing strict rules for honesty and fair dealing.
What the Law Does in Plain Language
1. Only licensed Professionals Can Sell or Install Solar Systems
1. Only Licensed Professionals Can Sell or Install Solar Systems Before this bill, some homeowners were approached by sales reps who weren’t properly licensed or trained. Now, anyone who sells, designs, or installs a system with a total cost exceeding $1,000 must hold the proper Washington licenses (per RCW 19.28.041). This ensures you are dealing with qualified professionals who follow state safety and installation standards.
2. All Contracts Must Be Clear, Detailed, and "Language-Matched"
Transparency is now the law. A solar installation contract must be written in the same language used during the sales presentation. Furthermore, contracts must now include:
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An itemized list of work and necessary electrical or utility upgrades.
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The specific cost per watt for the system.
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Specific disclosures regarding dealer fees if you are financing your system.
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The manufacturer’s warranty period for all major components.
3. The Three-Day "Cool-Off" Period
One of the most important protections is the legally mandated three-business-day right to cancel. Homeowners can cancel their contract via email or certified mail within three days of signing without penalty. Additionally, contractors are prohibited from charging any payments until this rescission period has officially expired.
4. Utility Approval is Required Before Construction
To prevent systems from being “orphaned” or left unable to connect to the grid, the law requires that the utility (such as PSE or Snohomish PUD) approve the interconnection application before any installation begins. This ensures your system is actually allowed to operate before it ever touches your roof.
Ending the Era of "Orphaned" Systems
This legislation was specifically designed to address “fly-by-night” contractors—companies that move into an area, use aggressive sales tactics, and then disappear, leaving customers with “orphaned” systems and no one to provide service or honor warranties. By requiring strict licensing and a physical presence of accountability, SHB 2156 ensures that the company you hire today will be there to support you tomorrow.
NWES is Leading the Charge for Consumer Safety
As a proud member of the Washington Solar Energy Industries Association (WASEIA), Northwest Electric and Solar actively supported the passage of this bill. We believe that protecting our Washington community is essential as we transition to clean energy.
For us, these practices aren’t “new”—they have always been part of how we operate. We are committed to helping homeowners adopt technology that protects them from rising energy rates and climate-related outages while ensuring their investment is safe, fair, and long-lasting.
Ready to Learn More About Going Solar?
Have questions about how Washington’s new solar protections affect your home or want a free estimate for your solar project? Contact NW Electric & Solar today. Our licensed team is here to guide you every step of the way and ensure your transition to clean energy is safe, clear, and stress-free.