Residential Oregon Solar Panel Installation

Residential solar panel installation is changing how households harness energy. From sprawling suburban homes to compact apartments, an increasing number of dwellings are making the switch. Here’s why your Oregon home should consider it too.

How Do Solar Panels Work?

The process of how solar panels work might seem complex, but it can be broken down into simpler steps:

• Catching Sunlight: Solar panels are designed to catch sunlight. This sunlight is made up of tiny energy particles called photons.
• Creating Energy: The panels are built with special materials, like silicon, which reacts when these photons hit them. This reaction creates an electric field.
• Moving Electrons: The energy from the photons pushes electrons (tiny particles inside atoms) out of their usual position.
• Making Electricity: These moving electrons create a flow of electricity. This is called direct current (DC) electricity.
• Changing the Current: The DC electricity is not suitable for home use, so a device called an inverter changes it into alternating current (AC) electricity, which can be used in your home.
• Using or Storing Extra Energy: If your solar panels make more electricity than you need, the extra energy can be stored in batteries for later use or sent back to the electric grid. Depending on your utility company, you might even get credits for this!

So, solar panels take sunlight, a resource we have plenty of, and turn it into electricity for our homes in a clean and renewable way.

Why Go Solar in Oregon?

Oregon’s climate is ideal for leveraging solar energy, with abundant sunshine throughout the year and rainy seasons providing natural cleaning for your panels. Moreover, the state has favorable solar incentives and rebates for solar installation. Opting for solar in Oregon means:

1. Making the most of state incentives and policies
2. Utilizing abundant sunshine for power
3. Contributing to a sustainable future
4. Saving money by reducing or eliminating your electricity bills
5. Increasing the value of the property

Financial Advantages of Residential Solar

Residential solar panels in Oregon don’t just significantly lower energy expenses, but they also offer stability in expenditure. Solar power isn’t merely a renewable energy source; it’s a worthwhile investment with superb financial returns. The benefits include:

• Reduction in utility bills
• Stabilization of energy costs
• Increased property value
• Swift return on investment

Environmental Advantages of Solar Power

Switching to residential solar panels reduces carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable future. Solar energy doesn’t emit harmful greenhouse gases and assists in combating climate change. Key environmental benefits include:

• Reduction in carbon emissions
• Conservation of water resources
• Decrease in dependence on fossil fuels
• Promotion of a healthier environment

The Installation Process

The home solar installation process is efficient and hassle-free:

1. Property Assessment: Experts evaluate the property’s suitability for solar panels, taking into account structure, sun exposure, and energy usage patterns.
2. System Design: A tailor-made solar panel system is designed for efficiency and aesthetics.
3. Securing Permits: The necessary permits, including building and electrical permits, are secured, simplifying complex local regulations.
4. Installation: Technicians install the panels and conduct thorough system tests.

Throughout this entire process, homeowners can expect continuous support and communication from us, ensuring the transition to solar energy is seamless and straightforward.

Residential Solar Installation Types

Solar installations in Oregon can be customized to suit different residential properties, from single-family homes to multi-story buildings. Types of installations include ground mount, rooftop, and solar carports.

Ground Mount Installations

Ground mount installations allow flexible positioning of solar panels, optimizing energy production. They are a great choice for properties with ample unused land. Key advantages include:

• Optimal positioning for maximum sun exposure
• Scalability to meet high energy demands
• Ease of access for maintenance

Solar Carports

Solar carports are a unique and practical type of residential installation. Besides generating power, they also create shaded parking spaces, efficiently utilizing outdoor parking areas. The benefits of solar carports are:

• Dual functionality: energy production and vehicle shading
• Space-efficient, utilizing existing parking spaces
• Visible commitment to renewable energy

Rooftop Solar Installations

Rooftop installations are a popular choice for homeowners in urban settings or those with limited ground space. These systems utilize the otherwise unused rooftop space to generate power. Some advantages include:

• Efficient use of space, not requiring additional land
• Potential to meet all or most of the home’s energy needs
• Reduced energy loss and costs due to closer proximity to the point of use

Residential vs. Commercial Solar Panels

While residential and commercial solar panels employ the same core technology, there are key differences in size, power output, installation, and usage.

Residential Solar Panels

Residential solar panels are typically designed to meet the energy needs of a single household. They are often smaller and less powerful, given the lower energy consumption of residential properties. Advantages include:

• Helps homeowners achieve energy independence
• Can significantly reduce or eliminate electricity bills
• Often enhances property value
• Adding battery backup for your home achieves safety in case of a grid blackout

Commercial Solar Panels

Commercial solar panels, on the other hand, are built to handle the larger energy demands of businesses. They are usually larger and have a higher power output to meet the extensive power needs of commercial properties. A few perks of commercial solar panels are:

• Significant reduction in operational costs
• Scalable to meet the energy demands of the business
• Demonstrates your company’s commitment to sustainability

Battery Backup and EV Charging Stations

Incorporating battery backup with your solar system ensures a consistent power supply during outages, enhancing energy reliability. Furthermore, installing EV charging stations at your home is a proactive move, catering to the growing trend of electric vehicles. Some benefits include:

• Reliability: Battery backup provides continuous power during grid disruptions (e.g., earthquakes)
• Sustainability: EV charging stations support the shift to eco-friendly transportation
• Cost-Efficiency: Use your solar power for charging, reducing operational costs

(Please Note: This may require an electrical panel replacement to match your electrical connection with your new EV chargers.)

Read More: Portland General Electric EV Charger Rebates

Oregon Residential Solar Incentives for 2023

Here is a summary of the potential solar incentives in Oregon. To learn more, request a free consultation for your home.

• Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC): A federal tax credit providing 30% off the cost of solar system installation, which can save Oregonians an average of $7,410.

• Energy Trust of Oregon (ETO) Incentives: The ETO provides per-watt cash rebates for solar installations to customers of Portland General Electric ($500 per project) or Pacific Power ($600 per project), subject to availability and rate changes.

• Oregon Solar + Storage Rebate Program: A state-level rebate of up to $5,000 for solar electric systems and up to $2,500 for energy storage systems, with amounts varying based on income and other factors.

• Solar Within Reach Program (SWRP): A program for low-income residents offering cash incentives of $1.00 per watt (up to $5,400) for Portland General Electric customers and $0.90 per watt (up to $5,400) for Pacific Power customers. (See qualifications on our Oregon incentive page)

• SWRP Battery Storage Incentive: This incentive is part of the Solar Within Reach Program and offers low-income households $750 / kWH up to $10,000 per home for PGE and Pacific Power customers. (See qualifications on our Oregon incentive page)

• Renewable Energy Systems Exemption: A property tax exemption for the increase in property value due to solar panel installation, potentially saving thousands of dollars over the lifespan of the panels.

• Net Metering: A program that credits homeowners for excess power generated by their solar panels, offsetting future energy bills.

***These incentives are subject to change***

Remember to check with a tax professional or financial advisor for the most accurate and current information pertaining to your specific circumstances. 

Net Metering: How Does It Work?

Net metering is a billing system that enables homeowners and businesses with solar power systems to receive credit for any excess electricity they generate and feed back into the electrical grid.

Here’s how it works:

• Production of Solar Energy: Solar panels on your property generate electricity from sunlight. This energy is used to power your home or business.
• Excess Energy Generation: If your solar system produces more electricity than you need, the surplus energy is fed back into the grid.
• Electricity Metering: Your electricity meter keeps track of this ‘give and take’ of power. If you supply excess power to the grid, your meter effectively runs backward, indicating the amount of energy you’ve contributed.
• Billing and Credits: At the end of the billing period, you are charged only for the ‘net’ energy use. This is calculated by subtracting the energy you’ve supplied to the grid from the energy you’ve consumed. If you’ve generated more than you’ve used, you’ll receive a credit from your utility company.

Net metering provides a cost-effective way for solar power system owners to optimize their investment. By feeding unused power back into the grid, they can offset the cost of power drawn from the utility when the system isn’t producing enough electricity, such as during nighttime or cloudier days.

Importance of a Professional Home Solar Installer

Choosing a professional solar installer for your home is important for the success of your solar project. Expert solar installers not only provide a seamless and efficient installation but also guarantee the long-term performance and durability of your solar system. They offer:

• Expert Knowledge: Understanding of the latest solar technologies and best practices in installation.
• Quality Assurance: High standards of workmanship ensure system longevity.
• Regulatory Compliance: Knowledge of local regulations and permit requirements.
• Post-Installation Support: Ongoing maintenance and support after the installation.

Our solar experts are ready to help you embark on your solar journey. Start with a free consultation to explore the potential of solar energy for your home.

Is Solar Worth It in Oregon?

Undoubtedly, investing in solar energy in Oregon is a worthwhile decision. The state’s climate, combined with its progressive renewable energy policies, makes it a prime location for solar installations. Despite Oregon’s reputation for rainy weather, the state receives a substantial amount of sunlight year-round, sufficient for effective solar power generation.

Oregon also offers generous incentives to solar adopters, including tax credits, rebates, and net metering policies. These benefits can significantly offset the initial cost of solar installation, making it a financially smart move. The savings on utility bills over the lifespan of the system can be considerable, often covering the initial investment and providing a return.

Furthermore, solar panels increase property value and contribute to a sustainable future by reducing dependence on fossil fuels. So, not only does solar make sense economically, but it’s also a step towards environmental stewardship and higher property resell.

In short, the combination of climate suitability, strong government incentives, and long-term financial and environmental benefits make solar power a worthy investment for Oregon homeowners.

Getting a Solar Quote

Taking the first step toward installing a complete residential solar installation can feel overwhelming, but our team of professional solar consultants is here to make the process straightforward and easy. One important step is first obtaining a solar quote, and we are dedicated to providing a comprehensive, customized quote tailored to your unique needs and circumstances.

Here’s what you can expect when you request a solar quote from us:

1. Consultation: We’ll start by discussing your energy needs, examining your current electricity bills, and understanding your future energy goals. This consultation can be done over the phone or at your convenience.
2. Property Evaluation: Our team will assess your property’s suitability for solar panels, considering factors like roof space, sun exposure, and overall energy usage.
3. Customized Plan: Using the information gathered, our solar professionals will design a customized solar panel system for your home. This plan will detail the type of installation, the number of panels needed, and the optimal arrangement for maximum energy generation.
4. Detailed Quote: We’ll provide a detailed quote outlining the costs of equipment, installation, and any additional services like a battery backup or EV charging stations. This quote will also factor in any applicable incentives, rebates, and financing options to give you a clear view of the costs and potential savings.
5. Review and Adjustments: We’ll take the time to walk you through the quote, answering any questions you might have. We understand that this is a significant investment, and we want you to feel confident in your decision. If necessary, adjustments can be made to the plan to ensure it perfectly suits your needs.

Getting a solar quote is a no-obligation process, and our goal is to provide you with the most accurate information to help you make an informed decision. Remember, our professional solar team is here to guide you every step of the way toward a greener, more sustainable future.

Service Territory

We are proud to service a broad range of locations in and around Oregon City, providing efficient and professional residential solar panel installations (and commercial solar) to numerous households within a 50-mile radius. Our expansive service territory includes the following cities:

1. Aurora
2. Banks
3. Beavercreek
4. Beaverton
5. Boring
6. Canby
7. Clackamas
8. Cornelius
9. Damascus
10. Dayton
11. Donald
12. Dundee
13. Estacada
14. Forest Grove
15. Gladstone
16. Gresham
17. Happy Valley
18. Hillsboro
19. Hubbard
20. King City
21. Lake Oswego
22. Milwaukie
23. Molalla
24. Mulino
25. Newberg
26. North Plains
27. Oregon City
28. Portland
29. Sherwood
30. St. Paul
31. Tigard
32. Troutdale
33. Tualatin
34. West Linn
35. Wilsonville
36. Woodburn

These cities represent just a fraction of the areas we cover. If your location is not mentioned in this list, we encourage you to reach out to us. We are constantly extending our service area to help more Oregon homeowners transition to sustainable solar energy. With our expertise, you can harness the power of the sun for your home, regardless of where you reside within our service territory.

Residential Solar FAQs

Here is a list of questions we often get about home solar panels. If you don’t see your question answered, feel free to contact us and we’ll gladly help.