Navigating the 2025 Solar Landscape:
If you’re thinking about going solar, 2025 just threw you a curveball — and it’s one you can’t afford to ignore.
Tariffs are driving prices up. Federal incentives are on shaky ground. And supply chains are tightening by the day. The solar market is shifting fast, and the people who act now will lock in the best value. Those who wait? They could end up paying a lot more — for the same system.
At Northwest Electric & Solar, we’ve been here before. We’ve helped hundreds of Washington homeowners cut through the chaos and make smart, confident energy decisions. And we’re ready to do it again.
Let’s break down what’s happening — and what you should do next.
Tariff Impact on Solar Projects
Let’s not sugarcoat it: solar pricing is getting more unpredictable by the week. The U.S. just finalized major tariffs on imported solar panels from Southeast Asia — a move aimed at punishing companies for skirting trade rules, but the fallout is landing on homeowners. What does this mean for you?
Some panel prices are already up 25–35%, which translates to an increase of $1,800 to $2,600 on a typical 10 kW system.
If you’ve been thinking about solar, this is the moment to act. Waiting even a few months could mean paying thousands more or dealing with delays that push your install into next year. And this isn’t just a market shift — it’s a personal one. Your dream of energy independence and utility bill savings is now a race against rising costs. The good news? NWES has the local relationships and vetted suppliers to keep your project moving at competitive rates — no shortcuts, no surprises.
Battery Storage Pricing Impacts from Tariffs
While solar modules have borne the brunt of the media coverage surrounding tariffs, battery storage systems are also experiencing significant cost pressures—especially imported products that rely on Southeast Asian manufacturing or Chinese components.
Here’s a breakdown of how current tariffs are affecting major battery brands:
Tesla Powerwall
Known for its robust supply chain, Tesla has managed to weather the initial tariff storms better than most. While a price bump was expected, it’s come in lower than the market anticipated, making the Powerwall the most stable choice in a chaotic environment.
FranklinWH Batteries
On the opposite end of the spectrum, FranklinWH has taken a significant hit, with material costs reportedly surging by 60%. This could push their systems out of reach for many homeowners.
Enphase and Anker
Both companies are still assessing the full impact, but early signals suggest price hikes are likely. If you’re considering these brands, don’t wait for the dust to settle – costs are unlikely to go down.
SolarEdge
Currently a bright spot in the market, SolarEdge systems remain largely unaffected by tariffs through at least Q3 2025, offering a rare pocket of stability for those looking to install hybrid systems soon.
The Future of the Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 extended the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) at a 30% rate through 2032, providing significant financial incentives for solar adopters. However, the political landscape in 2025 introduces uncertainties:
Potential Policy Changes:
The current administration has signaled a willingness to revisit the IRA, which could mean restructuring of the ITC. If you’re counting on this credit, the time to act is now – before Congress has a chance to pull the rug out.
Domestic Content Requirements:
Future incentives are likely to favor projects built with U.S.-made components, aligning with broader efforts to strengthen American manufacturing.
Pricing and Supply Considerations
The convergence of tariffs and policy uncertainties is reshaping the solar market:
Price Fluctuations:
The cost of solar installations has increased, with some reports indicating a 30% rise in utility-scale project costs due to tariffs.
Supply Constraints:
Tariffs on key components like solar cells and modules have strained the supply chain, leading to potential delays in project timelines.
Domestic Manufacturing Growth:
In response, the U.S. has seen a surge in domestic solar manufacturing, with module production capacity increasing by 190% in 2024.
Strategies for Securing Optimal Value
Given the current landscape, consider the following approaches to maximize benefits from solar and battery installations:
Act Now to Lock in Incentives
Installing in 2025 secures the full 30% Federal ITC before any potential changes, maximizing your savings while incentives are still guaranteed.
Choose U.S.-Made and Tariff-Resilient Products
Opt for domestically manufactured solar and battery components to avoid tariff-related price hikes and tap into potential bonus incentives.
Work with Trusted Professionals
Partner with experienced, local solar installers who can help you navigate shifting policies, offer accurate pricing, and guide you to the best long-term value.
Navigating 2025 with Confidence
While the solar industry faces challenges in 2025 due to tariffs and policy uncertainties, opportunities remain for those who act decisively. By understanding the current environment and implementing strategic approaches, homeowners and businesses can still achieve significant savings and contribute to a sustainable energy future.
Ready to secure your energy future? Talk to one of our local experts today before costs climb even higher.
