Oregon Solar Incentives 2024: A Comprehensive Guide
Here in Oregon, we’re fortunate to have strong solar incentives. If you’re curious how much you can save with Oregon solar rebates, tax credits, and more, just give us a call at (541) 248-5373 or send us a message anytime:
In this guide, you won't find an overview of everything - just everything you need to know to get started with Oregon solar incentives. We hope you’ll feel more empowered to make a decision about whether solar makes sense for your home. Here’s what we’ll cover:
Net Metering Benefits: Learn how feeding electricity back to the grid can reduce your bills and contribute to a sustainable energy system.
Tax Credits Explained: Understand the financial benefits available at both state and federal levels and how they can significantly reduce the cost of going solar.
ODOE Programs and Resources: Get an overview of the various programs offered by the Oregon Department of Energy to support your transition to solar energy.
Solar for Multifamily Housing: Learn about initiatives aimed at making solar accessible to multifamily and low-income housing, ensuring everyone can benefit from clean energy.
Expert Guidance: Find out why it’s important to consult with a solar expert to navigate the landscape of solar incentives and make the most out of your investment.
Each section will help you navigate the incentives and make an informed decision about installing solar panels in 2024. These programs are not just about saving money — they invest in a cleaner future for all Oregon residents.
Please note: We’re Oregon solar installers, not accountants. The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult with your tax, legal, and accounting professionals before proceeding with any transaction.
Oregon Net Metering: Your Gateway to Savings
Oregon's net metering policy is a game-changer for residential and commercial solar system owners. This program allows you to receive credit for any excess electricity your solar panels generate and feed back into the grid. These credits can offset future electricity bills, making solar an even more attractive investment.
By earning credits on your utility bill for excess energy produced, you can save money while contributing to a more sustainable power grid. This policy ensures that you get the most out of your solar investment.
Learn more about net metering - including how to apply and how it can benefit you - from Oregon’s two largest utilities: PGE and Pacific Power.
Federal and Oregon Solar Tax Credits: Boosting Your Solar Journey
While the Oregon Residential Energy Tax Credit (RETC) for solar installations expired a few years ago, the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) continues to offer substantial savings. This federal incentive allows homeowners installing solar panels to receive a credit based on a percentage of the cost of their solar installation. It's a nationwide boost to encourage renewable energy adoption.
The federal solar tax credit has always been a powerful incentive. It covers up to 30% of your installation cost. This considerable saving will reduce your overall investment and speed up the payback period for your solar energy system.
Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE) Programs
The Oregon Department of Energy is a valuable resource for residents looking to go solar. The ODOE has various programs and resources designed to support renewable energy projects. This includes grants, loans, and technical assistance to help make your solar transition smooth and affordable.
For example, the Community Renewable Energy Grant Program in Oregon is designed for Tribes, public bodies, and utilities. It focuses on competitive grants for projects that enhance energy equity and resilience. A majority of the funds are dedicated to serving environmental justice communities and promoting community energy resilience.
Oregon Multifamily Energy Program (OR-MEP)
Addressing the needs of multifamily affordable housing, Oregon is working to make solar accessible to a broader range of residents. Programs like OR-MEP are designed to bring the benefits of solar energy to communities that need it most, ensuring equitable access to clean energy.
Visit the OR-MEP website to find out more about cash incentives, design assistance, and other information.
Pacific Power and PGE Solar Incentives
Pacific Power and Portland General Electric offer additional incentives for their customers. These rebates can make the initial cost of going solar more manageable, providing upfront savings that make a significant difference.
Financing arrangements like loans and leases are available to accommodate different budgets. This is making solar energy more accessible for Pacific Power and PGE customers. And for income-qualified Oregon residents, PGE offers additional services.
You’ll find an overview of Oregon solar incentives for Pacific Power and PGE customers on the Energy Trust of Oregon’s website.
Income-Eligible Oregon Solar Panel Incentives
The Solar Within Reach program provides enhanced incentives for income-qualified households to add solar and battery storage, substantially reducing costs and making clean energy more accessible.
Eligibility is determined by PGE or Pacific Power and requires collaboration with an approved solar trade ally contractor like Earthlight Technologies. Incentives vary based on the system size and utility provider, with specific rates offered per watt and for battery storage.
If you are a low- or moderate-income homeowner in Oregon, you may also qualify for a rebate of up to $5,000 for a solar electric system and up to $2,500 for an energy storage system through the Oregon Solar + Storage Rebate Program. This can cover up to 60% of the cost of your system and help you access clean and renewable energy.
How to qualify for the rebates
You can qualify for the rebates if you meet one of these criteria:
You are eligible for certain housing or community services programs.
You are eligible for certain human services or health authority programs.
You can prove your household income with a tax transcript.
How to apply for the rebates
You’ll need to work with a contractor that is approved by the Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE), such as Earthlight Technologies. Just give us a call at (541) 248-5373.
The contractor will submit a reservation application for you before installing your solar or storage system. You will also need to provide proof of your eligibility and installation.
You can only get a rebate for a solar system that is paired with a storage system. The storage system must have “islanding” capability, which means it can work independently from the grid in case of a power outage. You also need to follow the utility and technical rules and requirements.
The rebates are a great opportunity for low- or moderate-income homeowners in Oregon to go solar and save money. By applying for the rebates, you can get a solar and storage system at a lower cost and enjoy the benefits of clean and reliable energy.
Consult with an Expert
Navigating the world of solar incentives can be complex. Consulting with an Oregon solar installer is the best way to understand the available incentives and financing options for your specific situation.
Earthlight Technologies is dedicated to helping Oregonians like you embrace the benefits of solar energy. If you're curious about how much you could save with Oregon's solar incentives, we're here to guide you through every step of the process.
Start your solar journey today by calling us at (541) 248-5373 or sending us a message. We have been helping homeowners receive solar rebates for over 15 years. Our team of experts will provide you with personalized advice and help you understand the incentives available to you.
Note: We do our best to provide the most accurate information possible, but Oregon solar incentives change all the time. For up-to-date information, you should go directly to the organizations offering the incentives, such as the Energy Trust of Oregon and Oregon Department of Energy.
