Oregon Solar Panels
Pricing & Installation Data

Find out if solar panels are right for your home in Oregon.

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Oregon

Solar Panels in Oregon

Solar in the Beaver State has been gradually growing. While Oregon is not known to be the most sunny state, residents are keen on growing in the realm of renewable energy. Oregon has set a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) that mandates 50% of the electricity consumed in the state to be generated from renewable resources by 2040. This initiative, overseen by the Oregon Department of Energy, encourages the utilization of renewable energy sources like wind and solar. The state has seen significant growth in the solar sector, with a notable increase in solar installations and investments.

Cost of Solar in Oregon

The average price for a home solar panel system in Oregon is $18,780 for a 6kW system or about $3.02 per watt. Systems will vary depending on the solar installation company the types of solar panels you choose and the size of your system. When shopping for solar panels you should consider getting multiple quotes from various installers.

Average Cost
6 kW System
Average Cost
10 kW System
Estimated
Tax Credit
(10 kW System)
Average
Cost/Watt
U.S.Average$18,771$31,285$9,385.50$3.13
Oregon$16,620$27,700$8,310$2.77
U.S.Average$18,771$31,285$9,385.50$3.13
Most Costly State(Michigan)$22,680$37,800$11,340$3.78
Least Costly State(Arizona)$14,640$24,400$7,320$2.44

Costs by Solar System Size in Oregon

For most, the ideal solar system size is the sweet spot between price and capacity. The goal is to generate enough electricity to cover your home's demand while keeping overall costs low as possible.

I.E. Get the best bang for your buck.

System SizeSystem CostCost After Federal Tax Credit
5 kW$13,850$8,785
6 kW$16,620$10,542
7 kW$19,390$12,299
8 kW$22,160$14,056
10 kW$27,700$17,570

Pros and Cons of Solar in Oregon

Regrettably, solar energy isn't without its flaws. Our aim is to help you make the most informed choice for your situation. That's why we've gathered a list of advantages and disadvantages you might consider when analyzing a solar installation in your home state. We recommend considering all aspects.

Your perspective is important, and what you perceive as a downside might just overshadow the numerous benefits for you. We're here to lay out the pros and cons, empowering you to form your own judgment.

EnergyBot's Take

We know that Oregon is not the sunniest state. Therefore solar may be an option for some, but may not be available for all.

Some can still expect a payback of 12 to 15 years on their solar system. And with a life expectancy of 20 to 25 years on average for solar panels, that’s pretty good. But compared to other states, not the best. 

In a state like Oregon, solar viability will more heavily depend on other factors. If your roof requires additional support to hold the solar system, the solar system could easily not make financial sense due to those construction costs. Also ensure that your home receives adequate sunshine, free of shade, and ideally faces south. 

While it could make more sense for some, Oregon is a state where other factors could strongly sway the needle in one direction or the other. However, if you prioritize energy independence and renewable energy, other factors outside the financial could sway the decision. 

Because of this, we strongly recommend talking with a local solar installer to get an estimate.

If you are on the fence you can use this tool to get an accurate cost breakdown for your home based on your historical energy usage.

Leasing vs Buying Solar Panels in Oregon

There are several ways you can purchase and/or finance your solar panel installation in Oregon. Your goals and financial situation will dictate which option is best for you.

Cash Purchase

The most straightforward option. You pay upfront for the entire cost of the rooftop solar system. No interest, and fewer headaches, but many people are hesitant about spending several tens of thousands of dollars out of pocket.

Solar Loan

The most common method for buying solar systems. Like many other types of large purchases, you can finance your solar system through a bank or solar loan provider.

This sounds great, and many other solar loan salespeople will leverage the low payment to justify the costs. You will likely hear something like "You pay $250 a month on your electric bill, with a solar loan you will pay $200 and have free electricity."

Do your due diligence before you sign on the dotted line. There are many horror stories of variable loan terms, ballooning interest rates, and harsh missed payment penalties.

Solar Lease

Leasing solar panels generally involves less money out of pocket upfront. But, it's important to note - you do not own your solar energy system. You essentially renting the solar system. A solar provider will install the equipment and charge you a fixed monthly fee.

Most solar lease contracts last for a couple of decades, during which time the provider will keep an eye on the system's hardware and performance. At the end of your lease, you can choose to:

  • Renew your lease agreement
  • Purchase the system
  • End your lease agreement

Solar leases can be complicated. Not all are bad, but in many cases the lease terms in not in favor of the buyer. Before you decide on a solar lease make sure to read your contract thoroughly. If you don't understand something, ask an expert.

Power Purchase Agreements

A power purchase agreement (PPA) is a financial agreement where a solar company will design and install a solar system on your home or business with little or no cost upfront. Instead of paying a monthly fee like a lease, the agreement includes a fixed price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity generated.

For example, you agree to pay $0.12 per kWh of electricity generated for the next 20 years. The solar company will install and maintain your system and sell the power back to you that you use. They may also collect payment for any additional energy they put back into the grid.

Just like a lease, you do not own the panels. When the contract is up, they will either be removed or your contract may have other terms for you to buy or renew your power purchase agreement.

Power purchase agreements can be complicated. Before you sign make sure you review the contract and if possible have an expert in power purchase agreements review the details.

Oregon Solar Incentives

In addition to the 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit, you may be eligible for solar incentives that could significantly reduce the cost of solar panel installation. residents have access to various solar incentives managed by statewide agencies and utility companies, including the Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE) and the Energy Trust of Oregon. The Energy Trust of Oregon provides different incentives through programs like the Solar Electric Incentive Program and Solar Within Reach, offering rebates based on the project and household income levels. Additionally, the ODOE has a Solar + Storage Rebate Program offering cash incentives determined by household income and eligibility for other utility incentives.

Name State Category Type
Oregon Solar and Wind Easements/Rights Laws & Local Option Solar Rights Law OR Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Access Policy
Solar Water Heating Incentive Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
BEF - Solar 4R Schools OR Financial Incentive Grant Program
Net Metering OR Regulatory Policy Net Metering
Ashland Electric Utility - Bright Way to Heat Water Rebate OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
BEF - Solar Starters OR Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Renewable Energy Systems Exemption OR Financial Incentive Property Tax Incentive
Business Energy Tax Credit OR Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Utility Independent Home Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Remote Water Pumping Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Fuel Mix and Emissions Disclosure OR Regulatory Policy Generation Disclosure
Small-Scale Energy Loan Program OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Energy Trust of Oregon OR Regulatory Policy Public Benefits Fund
City of Ashland - Solar Rights Ordinance OR Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Access Policy
EWEB - Energy Management Services Loan OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Solar Equipment Certification OR Regulatory Policy Equipment Certification
Renewable Energy Contractor Licensing OR Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Contractor Licensing
EWEB - Energy Management Services Rebate OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Portland - Green Power Purchasing & Generation OR Regulatory Policy Green Power Purchasing
Ashland Electric Utility - Photovoltaic Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Portland - Solar Access Developer Guidelines OR Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Access Policy
Ashland Electric - Net Metering OR Regulatory Policy Net Metering
EPUD - Solar Water Heater Rebate OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
EWEB - Residential Solar Water Heating Rebate OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
EWEB - Residential Solar Water Heating Loan Program OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Lane Electric Coop - The Bright Way to Heat Water Loan OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
OTEC - Residential Photovoltaic Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Custom Renewable Energy Projects OR Financial Incentive Grant Program
EWEB - PV Partners OR Regulatory Policy Net Metering
Interconnection Standards OR Regulatory Policy Interconnection
Solar Electric Incentive Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
EPUD - Net Metering OR Regulatory Policy Net Metering
EWEB - PV Eugene OR Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Ashland Electric Utility - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
State Home Oil Weatherization (SHOW) Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Small Multifamily Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Midstate Electric Cooperative - Residential Conservation Rebates OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Midstate Electric Cooperative - Commercial and Industrial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Oregon Appliance and Equipment Energy Efficiency Standards OR Regulatory Policy Appliance/Equipment Efficiency Standards
Avista Utilities (Gas) - Prescriptive Commercial Incentive Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Avista Utilities (Gas) - Oregon Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Avista Utilities (Gas) - Oregon Residential Weatherization Program OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Portland General Electric - Weatherization Incentives Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Portland General Electric - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Building Energy Code OR Regulatory Policy Building Energy Code
State Energy Efficient Design Program OR Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Emerald PUD - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Emerald PUD - Commercial and Industrial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Columbia River PUD - Heat Pump Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Columbia River PUD - Heat Pump Financing Program OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Columbia River PUD - ENERGY STAR Light Fixture Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Columbia River PUD - Water Heater Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Columbia River PUD - Water Heater Financing Program OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Columbia River PUD - ENERGY STAR Manufactured Homes Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Columbia River PUD - Commercial Lighting Retrofit Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Columbia River PUD - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Columbia River PUD - Commercial Energy Efficiency Loan Program OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Forest Grove Light & Power - Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
EWEB - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
EWEB - Premium Efficiency Motor Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Ashland Electric Utility - Residential Energy Efficiency Loan Program OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Ashland Electric Utility - Commercial Conservation Loan Program OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Springfield Utility Board - Residential Energy Efficiency Loan Program OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Springfield Utility Board - Super Good Cents Manufactured Homes Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Springfield Utility Board - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Springfield Utility Board - Energy Savings Plan Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Tillamook County PUD - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Tillamook County PUD - Dairy Lighting Retrofit Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
OTEC - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Central Electric Cooperative - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Central Electric Cooperative - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Douglas Electric Cooperative - Solar Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Central Electric Cooperative - Solar Water Heater Loan OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Salem Electric - Solar Water Heater Rebate OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Salem Electric - Low-Interest Loan Program OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Home Energy Solutions for Existing Homes OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Portland - Green Investment Fund OR Financial Incentive Grant Program
Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate for Existing Buildings OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Lane Electric Cooperative - Heat Pump Rebate/Loan Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Lane Electric Cooperative - Residential Weatherization Programs OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Consumers Power, Inc. - New Homes Energy Efficiency Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Douglas Electric Cooperative - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Salem Electric - Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
EWEB - Solar Electric Program (Rebate) OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
EWEB - Solar Electric Program (Performance-Based Incentive) OR Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
EWEB - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebates Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Renewable Portfolio Standard OR Regulatory Policy Renewables Portfolio Standard
EWEB - New Facilities Energy Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Idaho Power - Easy Upgrades for Simple Retrofits Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Green Energy Technology in Public Buildings OR Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Mandatory Utility Green Power Option OR Regulatory Policy Mandatory Utility Green Power Option
Tax Credit for Renewable Energy Equipment Manufacturers OR Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Energy Trust - Small Wind Incentive Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Wind Incentive Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Idaho Power - New Building Efficiency Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Idaho Power - Commercial Custom Efficiency Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Idaho Power - Irrigation Efficiency Rewards Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Idaho Power - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
OTEC - Agricultural Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
OTEC - Commercial Lighting Retrofit Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
New Homes Incentive Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Residential Energy Star Appliance Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Industrial and Agricultural Production Efficiency Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
McMinnville Water & Light - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
McMinnville Water & Light - Conservation Service Loan Program OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Commercial Scale Wind Incentive Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
NW Natural (Gas) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Monmouth Power & Light - Residential Energy Efficiency Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Tillamook County PUD - Residential Energy Efficiency Loan Program OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Springfield Utility Board - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Columbia River PUD - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Columbia River PUD - Residential Energy Efficiency Loan Programs OR Financial Incentive Loan Program
Lane Electric Cooperative - Manufactured Homes Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Salem Electric - Photovoltaic Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Local Option - Local Improvement Districts OR Financial Incentive PACE Financing
Small Wind Turbine Certification OR Regulatory Policy Equipment Certification
Solar Volumetric Incentive and Payments Program OR Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Central Lincoln People's Utility District - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Portland - Streamlined Building Permits for Residential Solar Systems OR Financial Incentive Green Building Incentive
Oregon - Residential Energy-Efficient Appliance Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
McMinnville Water and Light - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
City of Portland - Streamlined Building Permits for Residential Solar Systems OR Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Permitting Standards
Energy Trust - New Homes Stand Alone Incentive Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Biomass Producer or Collector Tax Credit OR Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Multifamily Home Energy Solutions Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance - Smart Water Heat Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Renewable Energy Development Grant Program OR Financial Incentive Grant Program
Energy Conservation Tax Credits - Competitively-Selected Projects (Corporate) OR Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Energy Conservation Tax Credits - Competitively-Selected Projects (Personal) OR Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Energy Conservation Tax Credits - Small Premium Projects (Corporate) OR Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Energy Conservation Tax Credits - Small Premium Projects (Personal) OR Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Central Lincoln People's Utility District - Renewable Energy Incentive Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Local Option - Rural Renewable Energy Development Zones OR Financial Incentive Property Tax Incentive
Ashland Electric Utility - Residential Conservation Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Emerald PUD - Solar Electric Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
SB 1149 Schools Program OR Regulatory Policy Public Benefits Fund
Large Electric Consumer Public Purpose Program (LECPPP) OR Regulatory Policy Public Benefits Fund
EWEB - Net Metering OR Regulatory Policy Net Metering
Pacific Power - Blue Sky Community Project Funds OR Financial Incentive Grant Program
Utility Scale Solar Incentive Program OR Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
PGE Renewable Development Fund OR Financial Incentive Grant Program
Columbia River PUD - Solar PV Net Metering Rebate OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Diesel School Bus Replacement Program OR Financial Incentive Grant Program
Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Solar + Storage Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Central Lincoln PUD Electric Vehicle Charging Station Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Emerald PUC Electric Vehicle Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Eugene Water & Electric Board - Electric Vehicle Charging Station Smart Charge Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Portland General Electric (PGE) - Residential EV Charging Pilot Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Portland General Electric (PGE) - EV Charging Station Commercial & Multifamily Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Solar Within Reach OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
OTEC - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Oregon Community Solar Program OR Regulatory Policy Community Solar Rules
Emerald PUC Electric Vehicle Charger Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Making Solar Equitable Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Solar Planning Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Lane Electric - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program OR Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Tax-Exempt Financing for Green Buildings, Renewable Energy & Brownfield Redevelopment US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Conservation Security Program (CSP) Production Incentive US Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Business Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Federal Excise Tax Exemption for Gasohol US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Exemption
Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS) US Financial Incentive Corporate Depreciation
Energy Star Financing and Mortgages US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA Rural Housing Service Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Corporate) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Exemption
Renewable Energy Production Incentive (REPI) US Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Small Business Administration Loan Programs US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Energy-Efficient Mortgages US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs - Funding Opportunities US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Green Power Purchasing Goal for Federal Government US Regulatory Policy Green Power Purchasing
Energy-Efficient Commercial Buildings Tax Deduction US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Deduction
Energy-Efficient New Homes Tax Credit for Home Builders US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Energy-Efficient Appliance Manufacturing Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Veterans Housing Guaranteed and Insured Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Federal Appliance Standards US Regulatory Policy Appliance/Equipment Efficiency Standards
Energy Goals and Standards for Federal Agencies US Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs) US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs) US Financial Incentive Loan Program
U.S. Department of Treasury - Renewable Energy Grants US Financial Incentive Grant Program
USDA - High Energy Cost Grant Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
USDA - Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Product Manufacturing Assistance Program US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Repowering Assistance Biorefinery Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Title I Property Improvement Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Development Assistance (EA/REDA) Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Fannie Mae Green Financing – Loan Program US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Qualified Commercial Clean Vehicle Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit (Corporate) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit (Personal) US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Previously-Owned Clean Vehicle Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit

Energy Trust of Oregon Rebate: This program offers a rebate of $300 per kilowatt (up to a maximum of $2,400) to customers of PGE and Pacific Power. However, by claiming this rebate, the utility will own your renewable energy certificates (RECs), preventing you from selling them to someone else.

Solar Within Reach Program: A program introduced in 2020, targeting low-income households, offering a hefty rebate incentive of $1,500 per kW, up to $9,000. This, combined with other rebates and the federal tax credit, could potentially cover almost the entire cost of a solar energy system. Eligibility is based on the gross annual maximum income amounts, which vary depending on the number of people living in the home.

Oregon Solar Companies

There are hundreds of solar companies in Oregon. From solar installers to solar loan providers, and manufacturers. Each is a piece of the puzzle to help you get outfitted with solar panels.

To make things simple, EnergyBot works directly with 3 of the largest solar companies to give you a comprehensive view of the market.

The solar companies we partner with:

  • Project Solar - A nationwide provider of solar panel systems that has a non-sales-oriented approach to building your system. They build your system from their central office and send a local company to complete the solar panel installation.
  • EnergySage - The largest online solar installation network. They work with thousands of installers to help you find the perfect solar system for your home. With thousands of successful solar installations, they can give you a range of bids and pricing options.
  • Tesla - Brains behind some of the most cutting-edge technology in the automotive industry, Tesla also offers sleek and powerful solar systems and battery systems.

We believe comparing these three names in the solar industry will give you the info you need to decide if solar panels are right for you.

Before You Install Solar Panels

Just because solar is a popular discussion right now, doesn’t mean it makes sense for everyone. It is still a large and expensive decision. Installing solar has great financial and environmental benefits but it won’t feel beneficial if you run into issues. Along with studying a 20-year cost comparison for your home, read some more tips to keep in mind when mulling over your decision on your installer, system design, and financial plan.

  • What are the long-term savings and payback period for installing a solar panel system?
  • How will installing solar panels impact my home's value?
  • What is the system’s Return on Investment (ROI)?
  • Are there any specific design or aesthetic considerations for solar panel installation?
  • How do I weigh the environmental benefits against the costs of installation?
  • What are the specific terms and conditions for the installer?

Oregon is Blazing the Trail

Fantastic news for all of us who are diving into the sustainability space. The state of Oregon is making a monumental move by allocating a staggering $2.3 million to help rural communities lower their energy costs. This isn't just a one-off gesture; it's a strategic investment that promises long-term benefits. Administered through the Oregon Department of Energy's State Energy Program, the grant aims to fund a range of projects, from retrofitting older buildings for energy efficiency to implementing renewable energy systems like solar panels and wind turbines. 

What makes this initiative particularly noteworthy is its focus on rural areas, which often face unique challenges in accessing affordable, clean energy. Small businesses, households, and even local schools stand to benefit immensely from this program. The grant will not only alleviate the burden of high energy bills but also contribute to Oregon's broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable living.

Why Trust EnergyBot

We have helped thousands of customers find electricity plans for their home or business. And we are pretty darn good at it, with over 1,000 5-Star reviews we know how to help you stay powered up.

Now using the same one-of-kind technology and platform we are helping consumers in Oregon decide if solar is right for them. You will notice that sometimes our numbers make solar look less attractive. That's not by accident. We believe you should have full transparency during the solar purchasing process.

We aren't here to sell you something. We are here to help you make the best energy decision for your home or business.

The cost of solar panel installation in Oregon can vary significantly based on a number of factors, including the size and type of the system, the complexity of the installation, your solar installer, and the specific location. However, the average cost of solar panels in the U.S. was about $3.13 per watt, before any incentives or tax credits.

A typical residential solar system is usually around 8 kilowatts (8,000 watts), but varies based on energy use and the size of the house. The US average cost for a 6 kW system is $18,771 and the US average cost for a 10 kW system is $31,285, before incentives. The average price for a home solar panel system in Oregon is $18,780 for a 6kW system or about or about $3.02 per watt.

The number of solar panels you would need depends on a variety of factors such as:

  1. Your home's energy consumption: The first step is to calculate your household's energy use. You can do this by looking at your electricity bills to see how much electricity you use in a year, usually measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). The average U.S. home uses around 10,400 kWh per year, but this can vary widely based on the size of your home, the efficiency of your appliances, and your personal habits.
  2. The amount of sunlight your location receives: This can vary depending on where you live. For example, if you live in a place that has many sunny days like Arizona, you might require fewer solar panels compared to someone living in a place with less sunlight like Seattle.
  3. The efficiency of the solar panels: Not all solar panels are created equal. Some panels can convert sunlight into electricity more efficiently than others. On average, residential solar panels have an efficiency rating between 15-20%. The higher the efficiency, the fewer panels you would likely need to meet your energy needs.
  4. The size of the solar panels: Solar panels also come in different sizes. A common size for residential use is roughly 65 inches by 39 inches. Each panel typically produces around 250 to 400 watts of power, but this can vary.

To give you a rough estimate, let's say you live in a location that receives about 5 hours of peak sunlight per day, your solar panels have an efficiency of 20%, and each panel has a power rating of 300 watts. If your home uses about 10,400 kWh per year, you would divide this by 365 to get your daily energy use (about 28.5 kWh). You would then divide this by the hours of peak sunlight (5 hours), to get your required power output per hour (about 5.7 kW). If each solar panel produces 300 watts (or 0.3 kW), you would divide 5.7 kW by 0.3 to get the number of solar panels you need, which would be about 19 panels.

  • Lower Electricity Bills:
    Once your solar panels are installed, you can generate your own electricity and reduce your reliance on the grid, which can lower your monthly bills.
  • Environmental Benefits:
    Solar energy is clean and renewable, so using it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful pollutants.
  • Increased Home Value:
    Installing solar panels can increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
  • Long-Term Savings:
    While the upfront cost of installing solar energy systems can be high, they can pay for themselves over time through lower energy bills and other savings.
  • Location:
    Homes in areas with lots of sunlight are generally better candidates for solar panels. If your home is shaded or doesn't receive much sunlight, it may not be the best choice.
  • Roof Orientation:
    Ideally, your roof should be facing south to get the most sunlight throughout the day.
  • Roof Condition:
    Your roof should be in good condition and able to support the weight of the solar panels. If your roof needs repairs or replacement, it's best to take care of that before your solar installation.

The installation process for solar panels can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the size of the system and the complexity of the installation.

Your installer should be able to give you an estimated timeline based on your specific project.

Solar panels generally require very little maintenance. However, it's a good idea to have them inspected every few years to ensure they are working properly and to clean off any debris or dirt that may have accumulated on the panels. Most solar panel installers offer maintenance services for an additional fee.

Some skilled DIYers may be able to save some solar installation costs by installing solar equipment themselves. But, any solar installation will require a foundational knowledge of wiring and electricity. There's is a lot that can go wrong, posing a potentially deadly hazard.

Before you try to DIY your system we would recommend getting a quote from a solar installer. You may find that the labor costs of your install is relatively small compared to the cost of the solar equipment itself.

There are two main types of solar panels: Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline. There are pros and cons to both. Either type can produce enough solar power for your home. We recommend getting a recommendation from a solar installer for your home. Depending on your budget, location, and other factors they can recommend the most efficient solar panels for your home. 

Oregon, getting a solar permit is pretty straightforward but can vary depending on your local jurisdiction. 

Typically, you'll need to submit a permit application to your local building department, which usually includes site plans and system specs. Some cities have streamlined this process to encourage solar adoption. It's always a good idea to consult your local building department for the nitty-gritty details like required documentation and fees. 

If you're working with a solar installation company, they often handle the permitting process for you.

Portland

Salem

Eugene

Gresham