Soak up the sun, Sheryl Crow says. But it’s harder for homes to lighten up their electric bills now that most federal solar power tax credits have expired. (Prior to 2026, the IRS covered 30% of installation costs for eligible homeowners.) This week, we set out to find homes in the DMV that already have solar panels installed and can yield major utility savings without massive upfront costs.
Real estate professionals we spoke with cautioned that it’s important to do extra legwork when shopping for homes with solar panels. Ask to see utility bill data. Make sure the roof wasn’t damaged in the installation process. And think through whether you’ll use enough daytime electricity to take advantage of solar panels; a family of four able to do laundry by day will better harness the sun than two people who work 9-to-5 jobs in office buildings.
We did notice that lower price-point solar panel homes are much more plentiful in the District than in the burbs. With that in mind, take a look at this trio of eco-friendly options.
Have a comparison you’d like to see in an upcoming column? Let us know at metro@notus.com.
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The listing: 318 Varnum St. NW
The price: $850,000
The specifics: A century-old rowhouse with 21st-century solar power. We found this three-bedroom, two-bathroom house in a quiet corner of Petworth, a few blocks from President Abraham Lincoln’s cottage and acres of walking trails at Rock Creek Cemetery. The house is carefully remodeled, with a contemporary kitchen, hardwood floors and potential guest quarters (with a second kitchen) in the basement.
The solar panels: This home has a new roof and south-facing solar panels, for maximum energy production without worrisome leaks. There’s also an e-bike charging station.
Sell us on it: “Tucked away on a quiet, tree-lined street, you’re only a quick stroll from local parks and the Metro,” Compass listing agent Ryan DaSilva writes. “It’s efficient, it’s stylish, and it’s ready for you to add your personal touch.”
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Maryland
The listing: 17613 Kirk Lane, Rockville
The price: $759,000
The specifics: An eco-friendly family dreamhouse, this Rockville Cape Cod has solar panels, a vehicle-charging station and a greenhouse. The current owners loved raising kids in this suburban home on a 1-acre lot, with four bedrooms, three bathrooms and a finished basement. The house is 3 miles from suburban amenities in Olney and even closer to several parks, a meditation center and the Norbeck Hills Pool.
The solar panels: The current owner’s utility bill was less than $100 in seven months out of 12. The only spike was a $516 bill in January 2026, according to data shared with NOTUS. (In Montgomery County, real estate agents are required to share utility records with prospective owners.) In September 2025, the home produced more electricity than it used, resulting in a $21 credit.
Sell us on it: “This home is ideal for an owner seeking energy efficiency but who may not like the look of panels,” said Tony Krichbaum, a real estate agent with The Rollings Team in Olney. He said the panels are on the rear roof and face southeast for maximum sun exposure. “Bonus for purchasers who have an electric vehicle or are looking for one: The charging station adds nothing to utility bills and is an incredibly rare feature.”
Virginia
The listing: 1306 Commonwealth Ave., Alexandria
The price: $825,000
The specifics: This solar-paneled Del Ray home was such a catch, the owner accepted a contract after Compass broker Kerry Adams shared photos and utility data with NOTUS. The three-bedroom, three-bathroom, 1,750-square-foot townhome also had the highest price per square foot of any listing with solar panels that we found in the DMV. But homes in Del Ray fetch top dollar, and this one is only a 10-minute walk from the Braddock Road Metro station.
The solar panels: Since January 2025, the electric bill for this home hit triple digits only four times. But overall, the Dominion Energy bill averages a negligible $8.70.
Sell us on it: ““One of the biggest challenges for buyers looking for a home in Del Ray is the cost of ownership,” Adams said. “That’s where this home stands apart. Energy-efficient solar panels keep most monthly Dominion Energy bills under $10, helping offset the cost of living.”
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