QUICK ANSWER
In Spokane, WA, electricity costs $0.10/kWh and annual energy bills average $2,038/year. The highest-payback upgrades are Attic Insulation and Heat Pump. Avista rebates, stacked with federal HEEHRA (up to $8,000 for heat pumps) and the federal home improvement tax credit (30% back), can cut upfront upgrade costs by $3,000–$10,000+ depending on the project. A typical homeowner saves $367–$652/year after completing the top upgrades.
Home Energy Savings in Spokane, WA
Spokane is served by Avista Utilities, which offers rebates for heat pumps, ductless mini-splits, insulation, and smart thermostats. Eastern Washington's cold winters create significant heating demand -- transitioning from gas to a heat pump with Avista rebates and federal IRA credits provides strong long-term savings.
Spokane Energy Cost Overview
- Average annual energy cost: $2,038
- Local electricity rate: $0.10/kWh (U.S. average is $0.17/kWh)
- Climate zone: Cold
- Local utility: Avista
Top Energy Upgrades for Spokane Homeowners
- Attic Insulation: The highest-ROI upgrade for homes built before 2000. Typical payback: 3-5 years. Federal home improvement tax credit covers 30%.
- Heat Pump: Heats and cools at 2-3x the efficiency of a gas furnace or standard AC. Federal incentives up to $10,000 when stacked.
- Air Sealing: Cuts drafts and reduces heating and cooling loss by 15-25% at low cost. Often bundled with insulation rebates.
Available Rebates in Spokane
Avista offers rebates for qualifying energy efficiency upgrades. Stack these with Puget Sound Energy Rebates and federal HEEHRA rebates for maximum total savings.
- Federal HEEHRA: Up to $8,000 for heat pumps and $1,750 for heat pump water heaters for income-qualifying households
- Federal Home Improvement Tax Credit: 30% back on efficiency upgrades, available to all income levels
- Avista rebates: Avista rebate programs for 2026
- Washington programs: Washington state rebates and Puget Sound Energy Rebates
How to Start Saving in Spokane
- Complete a free Enerly home energy audit -- takes 5 minutes, no contractor visit needed
- Review your personalized upgrade list sorted by payback period and annual savings
- Check Avista for current rebate amounts and qualifying equipment
- Apply for HEEHRA rebates through your Washington state energy office if you qualify by income
- Claim the federal home improvement tax credit on your federal return for additional savings
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest energy waste in most Spokane homes?
In Cold climates like Spokane's, HVAC -- heating and cooling -- typically accounts for 40-50% of total home energy use. Upgrading to a modern high-efficiency system and adding insulation delivers the largest reduction in annual energy costs.
How much can Spokane homeowners save on energy bills?
Homeowners who complete the top recommended upgrades can typically save 18-32% on their annual energy bills. With an average energy cost of $2,038/year in Spokane, that represents roughly $367-$652 in annual savings before rebates are applied.
Does Spokane have good solar potential?
Spokane has good solar potential. The federal 30% Investment Tax Credit and any available state incentives can offset a significant portion of installation costs.