There can be solar tax credits and incentives available at the federal, state and local levels. The calculator above will show you the value of all incentives your home is eligible for.
If you go solar in Oregon, you can be sure the state will support you for the long haul. Residential solar programs here have been progressive, and there are sizable solar incentives to claim here. Read on to learn why going solar in Oregon in now one of the surest investments you can make.
Oregon offered some new low income and battery storage rebate programs in 2020. It was a step in the right direction, though available funds were lacking, as both programs were fully subscribed very quickly, and are no longer available. Hopefully the positive impacts from the program can be reworked into a more meaningful pool of solar funds in the coming years.
Learn what solar incentives are available to Oregon homeowners
See what Oregon solar incentives you qualify for based on your utility company and city
Find out how much these incentives and/or Oregon solar tax credits will reduce your cost to go solar and add batteries
The federal solar investment tax credit will have the biggest impact on the cost you will face to go solar in Oregon
If you install your photovoltaic system before the end of 2032, the federal tax credit is 30% of the cost of your solar panel system. This is 30% off the entire cost of the system including equipment, labor, and permitting.
Example: If your solar energy system costs $20,000, your federal solar tax credit would be $20,000 x 30% = $6,000.
The federal tax credit falls to 26% starting in 2033.
With net metering in some states, you get full retail rate credit for the amount of electricity you send back into the grid with your solar panels.
With net metering, if you generate more power than you need with your solar panels, you’ll get a credit on your next month’s bill. Thankfully, Oregon provides your credits at 100% of the retail rate.
However, you can’t keep carrying the credits over indefinitely. At the end of each billing year, you forfeit extra solar energy credits to the utility, and the money they would have saved you goes to the utility's low-income programs instead. That's actually a wonderful idea, so kudos, Oregon!
The Energy Trust of Oregon provides a nice solar rebate to PGE and Pacific Power customers. The amount is $300 per kilowatt (kW), up to a maximum of $2,400. So, to max out this credit, you could shoot for an 8-kW solar installation.
When you claim your rebates, the only downside is your performance payment renewable energy certificates (RECs) will be owned by the utility. RECs are credits that can be sold to utilities so that they can meet their renewable portfolio standards. If you take the Oregon Energy Trust rebate, the utility will already own your RECs, so you can’t go selling them to someone else.
A new statewide solar rebate program was available in Oregon in 2020, but had a meager budget of $2 million for the year. The incentive included solar power and battery storage with enhanced rebate amounts for low and moderate income residents.
The program allocated $200 per kilowatt (kW), up to 40% of the total costs, or $5,000, whichever was less.
You could have expected about $1,200 in credits through this program with a typical 6kW home solar installation (6kW * $200 per kW).
The rebates low- and moderate- income residential rebate was $1,800 per kilowatt, up to 60% of cost, or $5,000, whichever was less. This amount of funding definitely had the potential to change some lives.
Unfortunately, this rebate program had a tiny budget of just $2 million, and was closed to new applications in April of 2020. With a bigger budget it could be much, much more successful in helping people go solar. We’ll see what happens with the program budget in 2021 and beyond.
Learn more: Oregon’s statewide solar + storage rebate program
The Energy Trust of Oregon debuted a new low-income solar program in 2020 called “Solar Within Reach”. It provides a hefty rebate incentive of $1,500 per kW, up to $9,000.
That, when combined with the other $2,400 rebate on an 8kW system and the 26% Federal Tax Credit are enough to almost cover the entire cost of your solar energy system.
To qualify, you’ll need to be at or below gross annual maximum income amounts which increase depending on the number of people living in your home. For program details, check out the Energy Trust’s Solar Within Reach website.
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Prices based on a 11.8kW system, after 30% federal tax credit
36 solar companies in Oregon provide pricing on SolarReviews. Here are the best rated companies near you.
4.83 74 Reviews
Tom S, over 1 month
Earthlight was a joy to work with. We dragged our feet a bit, but the sales team was never pushy (something I cannot say about some other companies we met with). As new panels became available, which fit our design better, we signed the contract and paid a deposit. We had expected to wait 4-5 months for the installation, but an opening appeared after two months and we grabbed it. The installation crew arrived on time, and all of the panels were installed in a day. The workmanship was outstanding. Our system has been producing electricity for three months now, and we couldn't be happier. Everything is working perfectly.
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Tom S, over 1 month
Earthlight was a joy to work with. We dragged our feet a bit, but the sales team was never pushy (something I cannot say about some other companies we met with). As new panels became available, which fit our design better, we signed the contract and paid a deposit. We had expected to wait 4-5 months for the installation, but an opening appeared after two months and we grabbed it. The installation crew arrived on time, and all of the panels were installed in a day. The workmanship was outstanding. Our system has been producing electricity for three months now, and we couldn't be happier. Everything is working perfectly.
4.80 37 Reviews
Steven Woolpert, 1 week ago
I found Smart Solar Energy through my search in Energy Sage for solar installers in my area (Columbia River Gorge) after doing considerable research about solar. There is a lot of information which can be confusing , but I wanted to make informed decisions about size, materials, efficiency, financial incentives, etc for our home installation. I contacted Smart Solar and got a response within a day to set up an online visit time and what documents were needed to assess and design a system, like current electrical usage from the PUD. The online interview with Jordan Showers was very helpful and informative. I got clear, respectful answers to my questions and he spelled out the phases of the solar installation process, product & service warranty, cost & incentives available. It was my decision to proceed--no pressure from Jordan. Smart Solar took responsibility for the permitting processes and WA sales tax credit, set up the installation schedule and solar production & monitoring app, and kept me advised of the steps as installation progressed. This effective communication and keeping to the planned process and cost instilled a confidence in their work & services, which I greatly appreciate. All together, my Smart Solar experience went very smoothly--a testament to their professionalism, belief in the value of solar, and caring for customers in both Oregon & Washington.
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Steven Woolpert, 1 week ago
I found Smart Solar Energy through my search in Energy Sage for solar installers in my area (Columbia River Gorge) after doing considerable research about solar. There is a lot of information which can be confusing , but I wanted to make informed decisions about size, materials, efficiency, financial incentives, etc for our home installation. I contacted Smart Solar and got a response within a day to set up an online visit time and what documents were needed to assess and design a system, like current electrical usage from the PUD. The online interview with Jordan Showers was very helpful and informative. I got clear, respectful answers to my questions and he spelled out the phases of the solar installation process, product & service warranty, cost & incentives available. It was my decision to proceed--no pressure from Jordan. Smart Solar took responsibility for the permitting processes and WA sales tax credit, set up the installation schedule and solar production & monitoring app, and kept me advised of the steps as installation progressed. This effective communication and keeping to the planned process and cost instilled a confidence in their work & services, which I greatly appreciate. All together, my Smart Solar experience went very smoothly--a testament to their professionalism, belief in the value of solar, and caring for customers in both Oregon & Washington.
4.70 29 Reviews
Ellen Casseday, over 1 month
Power Northwest did a great presentation of the solar product, made a competitive offer and did a great job installing the product. We were very pleased with all aspects of the process.
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Ellen Casseday, over 1 month
Power Northwest did a great presentation of the solar product, made a competitive offer and did a great job installing the product. We were very pleased with all aspects of the process.
4.69 106 Reviews
Pettibone, 2 weeks ago
In May we got a qoute from A & R for a 25.2 kw system. After a bit of back and forth, we were promised a first year production of just under 31,000 for just over $71,000, beating a competitors bid by about $3,000. While they were slow to respond, and failed to male changes to the design based on being told multiple times that their design did not fit the south side of our house (we even provided them with the competitors design and pictures), we went with them because we were promised that they would honor the price and production promises if changes had to be made after the on site survey. We signed the contract towards the end of June, and we're supposed to have the install occur beginning of September. after the on site survey, they came back wanting to reduce the size of the system to 22.6 kw, for a higher price and massive reduction in promised production. First seemed to think we'd accept this smaller system for the same price, and then that we'd be ok with a system producing around $500 less worth of power per year for the same price. Now they seem to think thar we'd accept a $90,000 system for the agreed to production when the competitors offer was $74,000 and seem to think that canceling the contract would fit the electing to cancel cause in the contract, rather than termination with cause.
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Average cost (5kW system)
$14,750 ($2.95 per watt)
Pettibone, 2 weeks ago
In May we got a qoute from A & R for a 25.2 kw system. After a bit of back and forth, we were promised a first year production of just under 31,000 for just over $71,000, beating a competitors bid by about $3,000. While they were slow to respond, and failed to male changes to the design based on being told multiple times that their design did not fit the south side of our house (we even provided them with the competitors design and pictures), we went with them because we were promised that they would honor the price and production promises if changes had to be made after the on site survey. We signed the contract towards the end of June, and we're supposed to have the install occur beginning of September. after the on site survey, they came back wanting to reduce the size of the system to 22.6 kw, for a higher price and massive reduction in promised production. First seemed to think we'd accept this smaller system for the same price, and then that we'd be ok with a system producing around $500 less worth of power per year for the same price. Now they seem to think thar we'd accept a $90,000 system for the agreed to production when the competitors offer was $74,000 and seem to think that canceling the contract would fit the electing to cancel cause in the contract, rather than termination with cause.
4.66 51 Reviews
DaveMac, over 1 month
Kirpal (owner of Oregon Solar Works) understands the systems he installs better than certain other companies that bid on my project. He asked questions to determine what my goals were as well what he thought I needed. We discussed the pros and cons of various set-ups and came to a system tailored to my wants, needs and new understandings. At no time did I feel pressured to go with a a stock system or hurry to lock in a "deal too good to miss". During the install Kirpal and his crew were great. All of them pay attention to details and keep the site clean. They took the time to answer any concerns I had or explain a detail that I was unfamiliar with. After the install and "commissioning" of the system, and after all monies had been paid, Kirpal was, and is, still quick to answer the phone or a text message if I see something unusual. My past jobs in high tech R&D required technical knowledge and attention to detail. I can be persistent at making sure those I work with deliver what is promised. I found Kirpal and his crew to be very professional, deliver on promises and a pleasure to work with.
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Average cost (5kW system)
$16,250 ($3.25 per watt)
DaveMac, over 1 month
Kirpal (owner of Oregon Solar Works) understands the systems he installs better than certain other companies that bid on my project. He asked questions to determine what my goals were as well what he thought I needed. We discussed the pros and cons of various set-ups and came to a system tailored to my wants, needs and new understandings. At no time did I feel pressured to go with a a stock system or hurry to lock in a "deal too good to miss". During the install Kirpal and his crew were great. All of them pay attention to details and keep the site clean. They took the time to answer any concerns I had or explain a detail that I was unfamiliar with. After the install and "commissioning" of the system, and after all monies had been paid, Kirpal was, and is, still quick to answer the phone or a text message if I see something unusual. My past jobs in high tech R&D required technical knowledge and attention to detail. I can be persistent at making sure those I work with deliver what is promised. I found Kirpal and his crew to be very professional, deliver on promises and a pleasure to work with.
4.61 195 Reviews
Carl, 4 days ago
Justin Dygert at Intermountain Wind and Solar was the perfect example of what a sales person should be. He knows the products he is selling and he is passionate about the work he does. I had tons of questions. His presentation and knowledge base were impressive and he was able to answer all of my questions. He even answered questions that I didn’t even know that I had! Justin was great at giving me the information and allowing me to make the decisions, rather than pushing me do to something I was uncomfortable with. We have two electric vehicles and so we draw a ton of electricity from the grid. Additionally, budgets are tight as we recently purchased a new home. Justin was diligent and worked hard to design a system for us that effectively balanced budget, electricity needs, and personal preferences. I truly feel like Justin was invested in us and helping us make the best decision. He was quick to follow up and made sure to follow through. There were many factors when making the decision to get solar. I requested time to “sleep” on things before making a final decision. Justin made sure to follow up with me, but wasn’t overbearing. It was the perfect balance. I received a few different quotes from different solar companies and IWS blew everyone out of the water! They clearly have a solid business model as they’ve been in business since 2008 and many solar companies have come and gone in that time. The install team was respectful and great to work with. I ask lots of questions and the foreman was wonderful in answering them. The finished product looks great too. There’s a lot of retrofitting that has to occur with rooftop solar and they did great at making it look as good as possible. Thank you! I highly recommend Justin Dygert and Intermountain Wind and Solar to anyone!
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Average cost (5kW system)
$15,000 ($3.00 per watt)
Carl, 4 days ago
Justin Dygert at Intermountain Wind and Solar was the perfect example of what a sales person should be. He knows the products he is selling and he is passionate about the work he does. I had tons of questions. His presentation and knowledge base were impressive and he was able to answer all of my questions. He even answered questions that I didn’t even know that I had! Justin was great at giving me the information and allowing me to make the decisions, rather than pushing me do to something I was uncomfortable with. We have two electric vehicles and so we draw a ton of electricity from the grid. Additionally, budgets are tight as we recently purchased a new home. Justin was diligent and worked hard to design a system for us that effectively balanced budget, electricity needs, and personal preferences. I truly feel like Justin was invested in us and helping us make the best decision. He was quick to follow up and made sure to follow through. There were many factors when making the decision to get solar. I requested time to “sleep” on things before making a final decision. Justin made sure to follow up with me, but wasn’t overbearing. It was the perfect balance. I received a few different quotes from different solar companies and IWS blew everyone out of the water! They clearly have a solid business model as they’ve been in business since 2008 and many solar companies have come and gone in that time. The install team was respectful and great to work with. I ask lots of questions and the foreman was wonderful in answering them. The finished product looks great too. There’s a lot of retrofitting that has to occur with rooftop solar and they did great at making it look as good as possible. Thank you! I highly recommend Justin Dygert and Intermountain Wind and Solar to anyone!
4.59 35 Reviews
Anonymous, over 1 month
E2 Solar has now installed two PV systems for me. They are knowledgeable, professional and committed. I recommend them without reservation.
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Anonymous, over 1 month
E2 Solar has now installed two PV systems for me. They are knowledgeable, professional and committed. I recommend them without reservation.
4.53 13 Reviews
Jeff Hadley, over 1 month
The Cascade Solar team was great. They helped me design the solar system for my home. The install went smoothly and was done on time. They handled all of the paper work and continue to provide support after the install was complete.
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Jeff Hadley, over 1 month
The Cascade Solar team was great. They helped me design the solar system for my home. The install went smoothly and was done on time. They handled all of the paper work and continue to provide support after the install was complete.
4.52 1,948 Reviews
Johnathan Williams, 1 week ago
Had panels installed last October and my utility company dragged their feet connecting it, but finally did so in early January. After almost a whole year i am happy to say that I am no longer worried about these coming rate hikes because my system covers my bill! Fixed payments for me! Sure my initial payments were a little higher than my average by a tad but it's an INVESTMENT!
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Johnathan Williams, 1 week ago
Had panels installed last October and my utility company dragged their feet connecting it, but finally did so in early January. After almost a whole year i am happy to say that I am no longer worried about these coming rate hikes because my system covers my bill! Fixed payments for me! Sure my initial payments were a little higher than my average by a tad but it's an INVESTMENT!
4.50 10 Reviews
Dundee OR, over 1 month
I did not know it at the time but what Solar Energy Solutions gave me was more than a great job, it was truly a gift that continues to influence me, my family, my neighbors and my community.<br />
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Dundee OR, over 1 month
I did not know it at the time but what Solar Energy Solutions gave me was more than a great job, it was truly a gift that continues to influence me, my family, my neighbors and my community.<br />
For more information about going solar near where you live, check out the following resources: