Why Go Solar in Oregon?
Investing in solar energy in Oregon in 2025 offers numerous benefits. We've put together the top reasons why our customers have chosen to go solar in Oregon below.
Reducing Your Energy Bill
According to Energy Sage, On average, Oregon residents spend about $161 per month on electricity, which adds up to about $1,932 per year. Oregon's average electricity rate is 17 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), meaning the typical customer uses about 930 kWh monthly, totaling 11,160 kWh annually.
Curious how much will your future electrical bill will be?
Solar panel systems can significantly reduce your monthly electric bills, leading to substantial savings over time. While a $100 or $150 monthly electric bill may not appear substantial, these amounts accumulate rapidly over a decade, two decades, or even three decades. For instance, if you currently pay $100 per month in electricity, you will end up paying over $70,000 on electricity over the next thirty years.
Calculate your potential energy cost without solar
Increasing your homes value
Homes equipped with solar energy systems often see an increase in property value. Prospective buyers recognize the long-term savings and environmental benefits associated with solar power, making such properties more attractive in the real estate market. According to EnergySage, a solar installation can increase a home's resale value by about 4%, or up to $6,000 for each kilowatt of solar installed.
Taking advantage of incentives
Homes equipped with solar energy systems often see an increase in property value. Prospective buyers recognize the long-term savings and environmental benefits associated with solar power, making such properties more attractive in the real estate market. Here are some of the available incentives.
Solar Incentives
Last updated May 5, 2025
Energy Trust of Oregon Incentives
National Solar is proud to be an Energy Trust of Oregon Trade Ally Contractor since 2009. Take advantage of the incentives below by partnering with a Trade Ally.
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Federal Tax Credit
Most of our customers qualify for the 30% U.S. Federal Tax Credit (ITC). A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the income taxes that a person or company would otherwise pay the federal government. The ITC is based on the amount of investment in solar property. We always recommend consulting your tax professional for your specific situation.
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How do I claim the Solar Federal Tax Credit?
To claim the federal solar tax credit, you will fill out form 5695 when doing your federal taxes. If you get a system through National Solar you receive a binder manual that includes last years 5695 form and more information on how to claim your tax credit as well as information on your system. Want to see a draft from the IRS now? View the IRS Form 5695 here.
Solar: Net Metering
Oregon’s net metering law allows all utility customers to generate their own electricity and reduce their electricity bills. If you install a solar electric system, your utility will come to your site and switch out your existing utility meter for a bidirectional “net” meter (there is no charge for the new meter). This meter keeps track of the power you acquire from the utility and what you supply to the grid. Each month, the power you use from your utility is offset by the power you send to the utility. You are only charged for the difference or the “net.”
How does net metering work?
If you generate more power than you use in a given month, your electric bill will have no kilowatt-hour charges, and you will only have to pay the basic utility service charges. The surplus energy will generate kilowatt-hour credits that will be applied to your future electric bills. Unused credits will accumulate in your Portland General Electric or Pacific Power account. This means credits accumulated during sunny summer months, especially in Central Oregon, can be applied to charges during Oregon’s cloudy winter months. Some of the energy companies in the State of Oregon offer net metering:
- Portland General Electric (PGE): PGE provides a net metering program where customers can balance the electricity they use from PGE with the energy they send back from their power-generating systems.
- Pacific Power: Pacific Power offers net metering options for its customers, allowing them to receive credits for excess energy generated by their renewable systems.
- Central Electric Cooperative (CEC): CEC members who generate their own electricity using solar, wind, fuel cells, or hydroelectric power can interconnect with CEC's electric grid through a net metering agreement.
- Douglas Electric Cooperative: Douglas Electric Cooperative offers net metering services to its members, enabling them to offset their energy consumption with self-generated renewable energy.
EWEB Solar Incentives & Net Metering
The following net metered and direct generation rates are effective February 2025.
For net metering, excess energy generated by solar customers that exceeds their own consumption will be credited to their bill at the 2025 Annual Renewable Net-Metered Rate of $0.0710 per kWh (down from $0.1045 in 2024).
For direct generation, energy generated and sold directly to EWEB will be purchased at the 2025 Annual Renewable Generation Purchase Rate (Purchased Power and RECs) of $0.0768 per kWh (down from $0.1102 in 2024).
These rates decreased from 2024 because energy prices in the broader market went down. Since EWEB's solar rates are currently based on these market prices, they fluctuate and can be highly volatile.
You can learn more about EWEB's current solar rates here.
Salem Electric Solar Incentives & Net Metering
Salem Electric (SE) supports members in adopting renewable energy by offering financial incentives for qualifying solar systems and a robust net metering program. If you're a Salem Electric customer, these benefits can help make going solar more affordable.
Solar Incentives from Salem Electric
Salem Electric provides the following incentives for solar systems:
- $300 per kW installed for qualifying systems (maximum incentive: $1,500).
- Incentives cannot exceed 50% of the total project cost and are subject to fund availability.
This program applies to net-metered solar systems with a nameplate capacity of 25 kW or less that comply with SE’s Net Metering Policy.
Net Metering with Salem Electric
Salem Electric offers a net metering program for its members, allowing them to generate electricity and receive credits for the excess energy sent back to the grid. Credits earned from surplus energy can offset your energy costs during months when solar production is lower.
You can learn more about Salem Electric's Solar Information here.
Have more questions about incentives?
Request an Estimate from National Solar to get started, we will answer all of your questions and verify your eligibility to see which incentives you qualify for.
Enhancing home resilience with backup power
Pairing solar panels with battery storage systems ensures a reliable energy source during power outages. Stored solar power can keep essential appliances and systems running, providing peace of mind and enhancing your home's resilience against unforeseen disruptions.
Financing solutions to reduce upfront costs
Solar energy systems can be a significant investment, but homeowners have access to various financing solutions that make transitioning to solar power more affordable and manageable. These options help reduce the financial burden of upfront costs while enabling homeowners to enjoy the long-term savings and benefits of solar energy.
- Solar Loans: Homeowners can opt for personal loans or home equity financing to cover the cost of solar panel installation. Solar loans often come with favorable terms, such as low interest rates and flexible repayment periods, enabling homeowners to spread the cost over time while enjoying the immediate benefits of reduced energy bills. Many lenders offer solar-specific loan programs tailored to the unique needs of solar customers.
- Zero-Down Financing Options: National Solar offers zero-down payment plans, allowing homeowners to start enjoying the benefits of solar without any initial investment.
- Green Energy Loans: National Solar partners with multiple specialized green energy loan lending companies which are designed specifically for renewable energy projects. These loans often come with lower interest rates and more favorable terms than traditional personal loans.
Contact the National Solar team to learn more about out current financing options available to you.
Solar viability in Oregon
Despite its reputation for cloudy weather, Oregon receives sufficient sunlight for solar power generation:
Meeting modern household energy demands
Modern households are increasingly using high-consumption electronics, such as electric vehicles and energy-intensive appliances. Installing a solar energy system can help meet these demands efficiently, leading to substantial long-term savings.
Positive environmental benefits
Choosing solar energy over fossil fuels is a forward-thinking decision that aligns with environmental stewardship. Solar power is renewable and clean, reducing your carbon footprint and contributing to a healthier planet.
In summary, going solar in Oregon in 2025 is a financially and environmentally sound decision. With the availability of incentives, financing options, and the state's commitment to renewable energy, now is the perfect time to make the switch to solar power.
Why choose National Solar?
17 years of experience
With 17 years of experience, we’ve installed thousands of systems across the Pacific Northwest, earning the trust of local families.
100% In-house team
From design to permitting and installation, our expert team takes care of every step, ensuring a seamless process and top-tier craftsmanship.
Energy Trust of Oregon Trade Ally Contractor
Save money switching to solar with Energy Trust, Oregon State & Federal incentives while they last.
Solar Incentives
Last updated May 5, 2025
Energy Trust of Oregon Incentives
National Solar is proud to be an Energy Trust of Oregon Trade Ally Contractor since 2009. Take advantage of the incentives below by partnering with a Trade Ally.
{{pge-pac-table}}
Federal Tax Credit
Most of our customers qualify for the 30% U.S. Federal Tax Credit (ITC). A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the income taxes that a person or company would otherwise pay the federal government. The ITC is based on the amount of investment in solar property. We always recommend consulting your tax professional for your specific situation.
{{federal-tax-table}}
How do I claim the Solar Federal Tax Credit?
To claim the federal solar tax credit, you will fill out form 5695 when doing your federal taxes. If you get a system through National Solar you receive a binder manual that includes last years 5695 form and more information on how to claim your tax credit as well as information on your system. Want to see a draft from the IRS now? View the IRS Form 5695 here.
Solar: Net Metering
Oregon’s net metering law allows all utility customers to generate their own electricity and reduce their electricity bills. If you install a solar electric system, your utility will come to your site and switch out your existing utility meter for a bidirectional “net” meter (there is no charge for the new meter). This meter keeps track of the power you acquire from the utility and what you supply to the grid. Each month, the power you use from your utility is offset by the power you send to the utility. You are only charged for the difference or the “net.”
How does net metering work?
If you generate more power than you use in a given month, your electric bill will have no kilowatt-hour charges, and you will only have to pay the basic utility service charges. The surplus energy will generate kilowatt-hour credits that will be applied to your future electric bills. Unused credits will accumulate in your Portland General Electric or Pacific Power account. This means credits accumulated during sunny summer months, especially in Central Oregon, can be applied to charges during Oregon’s cloudy winter months. Some of the energy companies in the State of Oregon offer net metering:
- Portland General Electric (PGE): PGE provides a net metering program where customers can balance the electricity they use from PGE with the energy they send back from their power-generating systems.
- Pacific Power: Pacific Power offers net metering options for its customers, allowing them to receive credits for excess energy generated by their renewable systems.
- Central Electric Cooperative (CEC): CEC members who generate their own electricity using solar, wind, fuel cells, or hydroelectric power can interconnect with CEC's electric grid through a net metering agreement.
- Douglas Electric Cooperative: Douglas Electric Cooperative offers net metering services to its members, enabling them to offset their energy consumption with self-generated renewable energy.
EWEB Solar Incentives & Net Metering
The following net metered and direct generation rates are effective February 2025.
For net metering, excess energy generated by solar customers that exceeds their own consumption will be credited to their bill at the 2025 Annual Renewable Net-Metered Rate of $0.0710 per kWh (down from $0.1045 in 2024).
For direct generation, energy generated and sold directly to EWEB will be purchased at the 2025 Annual Renewable Generation Purchase Rate (Purchased Power and RECs) of $0.0768 per kWh (down from $0.1102 in 2024).
These rates decreased from 2024 because energy prices in the broader market went down. Since EWEB's solar rates are currently based on these market prices, they fluctuate and can be highly volatile.
You can learn more about EWEB's current solar rates here.
Salem Electric Solar Incentives & Net Metering
Salem Electric (SE) supports members in adopting renewable energy by offering financial incentives for qualifying solar systems and a robust net metering program. If you're a Salem Electric customer, these benefits can help make going solar more affordable.
Solar Incentives from Salem Electric
Salem Electric provides the following incentives for solar systems:
- $300 per kW installed for qualifying systems (maximum incentive: $1,500).
- Incentives cannot exceed 50% of the total project cost and are subject to fund availability.
This program applies to net-metered solar systems with a nameplate capacity of 25 kW or less that comply with SE’s Net Metering Policy.
Net Metering with Salem Electric
Salem Electric offers a net metering program for its members, allowing them to generate electricity and receive credits for the excess energy sent back to the grid. Credits earned from surplus energy can offset your energy costs during months when solar production is lower.
You can learn more about Salem Electric's Solar Information here.
Have more questions about incentives?
Request an Estimate from National Solar to get started, we will answer all of your questions and verify your eligibility to see which incentives you qualify for.
They love it, so will you
Got questions?
Here’s the answers.
At National Solar, we offer flexible payment options to meet your unique needs and preferences.
- Upfront Payment
- Many of our customers choose to pay the full cost of their solar system upfront.
- Traditional Payment Methods
- We accept payments via:
- Check
- ACH (Automated Clearing House)
- Credit Cards
- We accept payments via:
- Financing Options
- If paying upfront isn’t the right choice for you, we offer multiple financing options to make solar more accessible. These plans allow you to spread the cost over manageable monthly payments while still benefiting from incentives and energy savings right away.
- Bitcoin Payments
- Looking for an innovative way to go solar? National Solar is one of the few companies in Oregon that accepts Bitcoin for solar system payments. It’s another way we’re leading the charge in embracing cutting-edge technology and renewable energy solutions.
Our goal is to make going solar simple and affordable for every Oregon homeowner. Let us help you find the payment method that works best for your budget and long-term goals.
System longevity depends on climate conditions and the quality of modules installed, but typically in the PNW you can expect your modules to last 30 to 50 years or more thanks to our moderate climate. Our OR-sourced modules are designed for the PNW and come with a warranty ranging from 25 to 30 years.
Our inverters, which convert DC power to AC, also have a 25-year warranty and should last the lifespan of your solar modules. In addition to the manufacturer’s warranties, National Solar stands behind our work with a 10-year workmanship warranty for all our solar installations.
Going solar is a great way to impact the environment in a positive way. Although OR state is a leading renewable energy producer, about 25% of our energy still comes from non-renewable sources, which produce hundreds of tons of pollutants and greenhouse gases that harm both human health and the environment we live in. Investing in solar helps to reduce your fossil fuel consumption for 30 to 50 years or more thanks to the longevity of solar systems in the PNW, and the greenhouse gas offset across a solar system’s lifespan is equivalent to planting an entire forest of trees.
No. In Oregon State, the additional value that PV solar systems add to your home does not affect your property tax. Neither will adding a solar system trigger a reassessment of your property.
A solar system has no moving parts, so there should be no maintenance necessary. Keeping your panels clean, however, will affect production. Rain is usually sufficient to keep panels clean throughout the year for solar owners in OR, but it is a good practice to check your panels annually and clean if needed.
If ever there is an issue that arises with your system, we will come out and fix it at no cost to you under our 10-year workmanship warranty.
We do our best to accommodate any roof, steep or flat, tile, wood, or shingle. All roofs can be installed with solar, but your roof type may impact the cost. Different roofing materials require different installation methods and this can add time to your install to ensure that your system is properly mounted. If your roof will need to be replaced during the next ten years we recommend that it be replaced before scheduling your solar installation. If your roof is not ideal for a solar installation, we also offer raised, ground-mounted solutions as well.
Yes, and in a good way! According to a study by the US Department of Energy, any home improvement that lowers electricity bills by $1000 annually will increase a home’s value by about $20,000
No. In fact, they will help serve to protect your roof from weathering and keep your house cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. We use a wind and weather-resistant, hurricane-rated mounting system that will not corrode, warp, or break your roof and will not cause leaks.