Solar Panels in Oregon
Energy Trust Incentives + Full Retail Net Metering
$1,300/yr
Avg. Annual Savings
4.5 peak hrs/day
Peak Sun Hours
10–14 years
Payback Period
$14,000–$22,000
Avg. System Cost
Overview
Is Solar Worth It in Oregon?
Oregon is a growing solar market with strong net metering and a layered incentive structure. The Energy Trust of Oregon (ETO) provides cash incentives for Portland General Electric and Pacific Power customers, and the state's Solar + Storage Rebate Program offers additional rebates when funds are available.
Western Oregon (Portland, Salem, Eugene) receives 4.5 peak sun hours per day — less than California or Arizona, but Oregon's $0.20/kWh electricity rates and strong incentive stack make solar financially compelling. Eastern Oregon receives more sun (5.0+ peak hours) but has fewer utility options.
Benefits
Why Go Solar in Oregon
Reduce Your Electric Bill
Oregon homeowners save an average of $1,300/yr after going solar.
State & Local Incentives
Oregon offers property tax exemptions, net metering credits, and other state-level incentives that reduce your net cost. The federal 30% ITC expired Dec 31, 2025.
Increase Home Value
Solar panels increase your home's resale value — and are excluded from property tax in most states.
Energy Independence
Lock in your electricity rate and protect against rising utility costs for 25+ years.
Available Incentives
Oregon Solar Incentives & Tax Credits
Oregon Solar + Storage Rebate
RebateOregon's state rebate program offers up to $5,000 for solar and up to $2,500 for energy storage. Funds are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis — check Oregon DEQ for current availability.
Energy Trust of Oregon (ETO)
RebateETO provides cash incentives for PGE and Pacific Power customers — approximately $0.20–$0.30/watt for solar, up to $5,000 for battery storage. Available year-round through participating installers.
Net Metering (Full Retail Rate)
Net MeteringOregon offers 1:1 retail-rate net metering for systems under 25 kW through Portland General Electric and Pacific Power. Excess generation credits roll over monthly.
Property Tax Exemption
Tax ExemptionSolar energy systems are exempt from Oregon property tax assessment increases.
Federal Solar Tax Credit (Expired)
Tax CreditThe federal 30% residential solar tax credit (Section 25D) expired December 31, 2025. Not available for 2026 purchases.
What Changed in 2026 for Oregon Solar
The federal solar tax credit expired December 31, 2025 — here's what that means for Oregon homeowners and what options remain.
Federal ITC Gone — Oregon State Rebate Program Active (Funds Limited)
The 30% federal residential solar tax credit expired December 31, 2025. Oregon's Solar + Storage Rebate Program reopened in June 2026 — offering up to $5,000 for solar and up to $2,500 for energy storage — but funds were quickly reserved. Homeowners should check the Oregon Department of Energy website for current availability. The Energy Trust of Oregon (ETO) continues to offer its standard incentive of up to $2,500 for solar and up to $5,000 for battery storage.
Energy Trust of Oregon: Ongoing Incentives Available
The Energy Trust of Oregon (ETO) provides cash incentives for residential solar installations through Portland General Electric (PGE) and Pacific Power customers. ETO incentives are available year-round (subject to funding) and do not require the state rebate program. Current ETO standard incentives are approximately $0.20–$0.30/watt for solar systems, with enhanced incentives for income-qualified homeowners.
Net Metering at Full Retail Rate — 1:1 for Systems Under 25 kW
Oregon's net metering policy provides full retail-rate credits (1:1) for excess solar generation for systems under 25 kW. Portland General Electric and Pacific Power both participate. With electricity rates averaging $0.20/kWh and 4.5 peak sun hours per day in western Oregon, a typical 8 kW system generates $1,400–$1,600 in annual savings. Oregon also exempts solar equipment from the state sales tax and property tax increases.
Common Questions
Oregon Solar FAQ
Local Solar Companies
Solar Companies by City in Oregon
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