1. The Tax Credit Is Still Critical to Financing
Solar is more affordable than ever—but the way you finance your system can make or break the long-term value. And with new tariffs, rising interest rates, and the possible phaseout of the 30% tax credit, how you pay for solar in 2025 could look very different from years past.
The 30% federal solar tax credit is often used to re-amortize solar loans, meaning your monthly payments can drop once your credit is applied. But if the tax credit disappears or is reduced, homeowners who were depending on it to lower their payments may be caught off guard.
- Tip: Work with a lender that offers tax-savvy structures—and a local installer who can help you plan ahead.
2. National Lenders vs. Local Credit Unions
Many big-box solar companies offer ‘4.99% or lower APR’ or 25-year loans that look attractive on the surface—but they often come with:
- Inflated project costs
- Large dealer or origination fees
- Deferred interest terms or balloon payments
We prefer working with Puget Sound Cooperative Credit Union (PSCCU) and other Oregon-friendly lenders that offer:
- Transparent rates
- No dealer markups
- Shorter loan terms (10–15 years)
- Optional re-amortization after your tax credit is received
3. Loan Alternatives: Cash + Hybrid Financing
Not everyone needs a full solar loan. In 2025, we’re seeing more Oregon homeowners choose:
- Cash pay + battery financing
- Home equity lines (HELOCs)
- Short-term bridge loans until the tax credit arrives
This can lower total interest paid while still keeping your upfront cost manageable.
4. Watch for Rising Battery Prices
Battery backup is often the most expensive piece of a solar system—and battery costs are rising due to global demand, raw material limits, and new import tariffs.
If you’re financing both solar and storage, locking in pricing now may be smarter than waiting for rates to drop (which isn’t likely).
5. Solar Financing Is Local Now More Than Ever
Oregon has its own permitting rules, incentive programs, and electric utility policies. Financing that works in California or Florida might not make sense here.
At Energy Solutions, we’re based right here in Oregon City, and we’ve been helping homeowners across Northwestern Oregon secure financing that’s built for local success.
We’ll Help You Run the Numbers
Not sure what loan option makes the most sense for your household?
Up Next in the Series
- How Net Metering Works in Oregon (And Why It Matters)
- What to Expect During a Solar Installation in Oregon