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Best Solar Companies in Oregon

We compared 66 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Blue Raven Solar
      4.7(263)
    • ION Solar
      4.4(116)
    • ShopSolar
      4.7(159)
    Author picture
    Written by Kathryn Parkman
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by Justin Martino

    Best Solar Companies in Oregon

    If you've been thinking about going solar in Oregon but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone. We’re here to help you compare your options and get the best deal.

    The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties, availability and other factors to choose the top picks for this guide. Read the full methodology below for full details. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
    • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
    • 4,596,187 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
    • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
    • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
    • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

    The 3 best solar companies, reviewed

    Our top solar company picks

    1. Blue Raven Solar: Our pick for financing options
    2. ION Solar: Our pick for simple process
    3. ShopSolar: Our pick for DIY projects
    2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    Blue Raven Solar
    Blue Raven Solar
    4.7
    263 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease, PPA
    Workmanship warranty
    25 years
    Year founded
    2014
    Learn More Read Reviews

    Blue Raven Solar installs top-tier panels and microinverters to maximize energy production. We also like that it offers a unique financing option: BluePower Plus+ combines aspects of a solar lease with the flexibility of solar panel ownership. This lets you go solar with no upfront costs and 18 free months before starting fixed monthly payments.

    This is potentially a smart deal for Oregon homeowners who want to switch to clean energy while still saving on overall monthly expenses. Plus, you aren’t affected when electricity rates increase over time. Blue Raven has locations in Portland, Medford and Salem.

    • “Very professional workers. Made excellent speed on project completion. Fully explained their work and progress achieved. Coordinated effectively with government and utility to finish and obtain approvals. Excellent results achieved… I'd use them again. Sales team fully explained the program and adjusted the scope to meet my needs.” — James in Keizer, OR

    • “Blue Raven arrived on time. Started the project immediately, finished in no time. Inspection by the city the very next day passed. The crew was very friendly and knowledgeable and answered all my questions. It was a very good experience from start to finish…” — Scott in Salem, OR

    • “The entire experience with Blue Raven solar was great. Very professional and courteous. They have handled the whole process. They've pulled all the permits so all I had to do is sign the docs. The survey team and the installers were very punctual. Price was very competitive. I did a lot of research before making a final decision. I would definitely recommend Blue Raven to my family, friends and neighbors.” — Ben in Wilsonville, OR

    Some Blue Raven Solar customers have issues getting help with problems after their systems are installed. You also might not find as wide of a range of brand partners as some of our other top picks.

    Blue Raven Solar offers homeowners a simple and affordable way to go solar. It has zero-down financing with fixed interest rates and predictable payments. The company installs some of the latest solar technology. All systems come with a 25-year panel guarantee and a two-year production guarantee. The company is currently available in 21 states.

    • Consulting and design
    • Professional installations
    • Financing solutions
    • System monitoring

    Blue Raven Solar solar panel installations come with a standard 25-year manufacturer and 10-year workmanship warranty plus a roof penetration warranty. Power production is guaranteed for two years. Within that time, Blue Raven will reimburse you for lost energy.

    Storage battery warranties vary by manufacturer. The company offers the FranklinWH aPower Battery (12-year warranty), SunPower SunVault (10-year warranty), Enphase IQ Battery 5P (15-year warranty) and Tesla Powerwall 2 (10-year warranty).

    You can pay upfront and get immediate ownership of the solar panel system. Blue Raven also has some unique in-house payment options:

    • BluePower: This fixed monthly payment option lets you go solar without a significant upfront cost. There’s no prepayment penalty, and the plan is transferable to a new homeowner if you ever sell your house.
    • BluePower Plus+: Eligible customers can pay $0 upfront, get 18 months of free solar power and make fixed monthly payments after that. You own the system and are responsible for maintenance.

    Pros

    • Sleek, durable systems
    • Zero-down financing
    • Fixed interest rates and payments
    • Production guarantee
    • Referral cash bonus

    Cons

    • Occasional installation delays
    • Some complaints about miscommunication
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best for Installation
    Our pick for easy process
    ION Solar
    ION Solar
    4.4
    116 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    21.9%
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Workmanship warranty
    {warranty:41270}
    Year founded
    2013
    Learn More Read Reviews

    ION Solar is a reputable solar installer with a strong track record. It stands out for its professionalism, quality workmanship, strong customer service and a generally smooth end-to-end installation process for many customers.

    We suggest getting a personalized quote to determine if ION Solar is the best fit for you. The company offers various solar panel and system options to meet different needs and budgets.

    • “The entire process with ION Solar took three months and it was quick and easy. Their customer service reps were fast in responding and messaging every time we asked a question.” — Deveon in Portland, OR

    • “My experience with ION was very positive… The installers were in and out. They were really professional. They came as I was leaving for an appointment and I was gone about an hour and a half and came back and they were finished with the installation… Any time we had questions, they would answer the questions. I was surprised at how easy the whole process was.” — Rebecca in Portland, OR

    • “… Signing up was quick and getting permits took a while but it was okay. Then, the install was pretty good. The only problem was when they left, my dryer didn't work and they had to come back and replace the circuit breaker for the dryer. I'd tell others to look into it. It's pretty good deal.” — Gary in Eugene, OR

    Gary in Eugene, who seemed overall satisfied with ION Solar, mentioned that reps “might have been a little pushy, but it was not bad.” Some reviewers in other states mentioned communication issues or delays during the installation process. We think ION Solar could be a little more transparent about its warranty coverage, financing options and additional services provided.

    ION Solar is a solar installation company that services residential homes in several states, including Oregon. It’s NABCEP certified. Installers use Silfab solar panels and Enphase microinverters. Most projects are completed in 60 to 90 days.

    • Solar system design and installations
    • Roofing services
    • Energy production monitoring
    • Ongoing system maintenance

    ION Solar customers can purchase the system outright or finance it through a solar loan. Paying upfront gives you immediate ownership of the system. You can also finance through a solar loan. Rates and terms vary.

    ION Solar panels are guaranteed to produce at least 85% capacity for 30 years. Enphase microinverters come with a 25-year warranty. All work performed on your home during the installation is covered for 10 years. If there’s anything wrong with your panel or process, you can contact its customer service team for support.

    Pros

    • Sleek, black-on-black panels
    • No upfront payment required
    • 24/7 monitoring
    • Solid warranty

    Cons

    • Some communication issues
    • Some installation delays
    2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    ShopSolar
    ShopSolar
    4.7
    159 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Workmanship warranty
    Varies
    Year founded
    2018
    Read Reviews

    ShopSolar is an awesome place to buy solar equipment for do-it-yourself projects. You can find new and used solar panels, storage batteries, inverters, charge controllers, cabling and hardware, mounts and racks — everything needed for an off-grid or hybrid setup for homes, RVs and outbuildings.

    • “Things went smoothly with ShopSolar… It was cheaper for me by about $20,000 to go with ShopSolar and I can expand the system as I need to. That's been nice. I also got a couple of tax breaks from state and federal for putting in solar.” — Jordan in Bonanza, OR

    • “The stuff I bought from ShopSolar was very good quality and they've been flawless. It's been great with those guys. They've been responsive. I've had questions and they've answered them. The kit is American-made so they're expensive but I have a lot more confidence in in it. We haven't had any blackouts nor power outages yet, which is what I bought it for… ” — Brian in Colton, OR

    The important thing to keep in mind is that ShopSolar doesn’t offer professional installation services. It’s best to know a little about solar panels and electrical work, or you might get frustrated with the process or install something incorrectly. Some customers have experienced problems with their purchases, such as damaged or faulty equipment, but ShopSolarKits generally resolves these issues with refunds or replacements.

    » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

    ShopSolar is an online retailer that sells custom solar kits and other equipment, generators, batteries, cables and racks. You can find top-quality brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

    • New and used solar panels
    • Solar generator bundles
    • Batteries, inverters, mounts and racks
    • Additional hardware and accessories

    ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of all the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by the individual manufacturers’ warranties. If you run into a warranty issue, reps can help you contact the equipment manufacturer.

    You pay for your order in full upfront through ShopSolar’s secure website. It also has financing options for as little as $0 down.

    • Online payments: ShopSolar accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, Shop Pay and Diners Club International.
    • Financing: ShopSolar partners with Affirm on financing. Customers can make payments every two weeks or once a month for up to 36 months. Rates range from 0% to 36% APR.

    Pros

    • Wide selection for off-grid and DIY projects
    • Price match guarantee
    • 30-day return policy
    • Lifetime customer support

    Cons

    • Shipping and delivery restrictions or delays
    • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

    Solar Companies in Oregon Buyers guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Blue Raven Solar logo
    ION Solar logo
    ShopSolar logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      Oregon solar panel buyers guide

      Since 2018, we’ve heard from more than 100,000 verified solar customers. A couple of things we know for sure: People like powering their homes with a reliable source of cheap, clean energy. They don’t like getting into solar contracts that don’t meet their expectations. Here’s what to expect and what to look out for when buying solar panels in Oregon.

      Key insights

      • In Oregon, a typical residential solar panel installation costs $9,275 to $26,500, depending on the size of your system, what financial incentives you qualify for and other factors.
      • The federal investment tax credit (ITC) is the most significant financial incentive for buying solar panels in Oregon. You can also lease a system with little upfront cost, but you aren't eligible for the ITC.
      • Many solar customers are happy with the service, installation and cost savings. Others felt misled by pushy sales tactics and ended up with monthly bills higher than expected.

      What to look for in a solar company in Oregon

      Solar panels last a long time — you want to hire a well-established company that will still be around for system support for at least 25 years. In our experience, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common:

      • Good reputation: Don’t blindly trust what a sales rep tells you. Look at reviews on platforms like the ConsumerAffairs, Better Business Bureau and solar-specific forums to see real customer experiences. Look out for recurring complaints: equipment failures, misleading sales tactics and billing issues are major red flags.
      • Local experience: Companies with extensive experience installing solar panels in Oregon are better at navigating regional incentive programs, permit processes, utility policies and designing systems to maximize energy production given the state’s climate and weather patterns.
      • Free consultation: Get multiple quotes from different solar companies to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower quotes than others — this may indicate lower quality.
      • Complete services: The best solar companies provide end-to-end services, from system design and engineering to permitting, installation, inspection, monitoring and maintenance. Also consider if you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guard.
      • Transparent terms: The contract should be easy to understand. If anything about payment schedules, warranties, monitoring services or system maintenance doesn’t make sense — ask for clarification. Warranties and productivity guarantees provide peace of mind once your system is up and running.
      • Industry credentials: Legitimate solar companies have proper licensing, insurance and NABCEP certification for installers. Bonding is also important as it protects you if the contractor fails to meet certain financial obligations, like paying for permits or subcontractors.

      » TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      How much does it cost to go solar in Oregon?

      Oregon solar panel costs typically range between $9,275 to $26,500. The size of your solar panel system is a big factor in your total cost. It also depends on what incentives you’re eligible for, the condition of your roof and how much sunlight exposure it gets.

      A typical Oregon household needs a 10.93 kW system to offset enough energy costs to make solar viable. Depending on your household energy usage, you might need a smaller or larger system.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Oregon, the average cost per watt is $2.65.

      Average solar panel installation cost by system size in Oregon

      This doesn’t include the cost of a solar storage battery — which sometimes costs as much as the panels. Solar batteries are a must if you want real energy independence and essential if you go off-grid. Permitting, utility fees and maintenance also add to the cost of going solar.

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      You could pay the full cost upfront, but many choose to finance their system through a solar loan. It works like most other types of loans — there is an application process, and you pay the loan back over time with interest. Alternatively, you can lease solar panels.

      Oregon also has legalized power purchase agreements (unlike some other states). PPAs work very similarly to leases. The biggest downside to both is that you’ll be disqualified from many of the best financial incentives, like the 30% federal solar tax credit. It also might make your house harder to sell, since a new buyer will have to take over the lease agreement.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Solar incentives in Oregon

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of the cost of your solar energy system. This tax credit applies to both residential and commercial installations, and it includes the cost of the solar panels and other equipment, labor and additional features for monitoring the system.

      For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $15,000 in taxes, the ITC reduces what you owe to $12,000. You don’t get these benefits automatically, though. You have to claim your solar equipment, labor and permits on your federal taxes for the same year you started using your system on Form 5695.

      The ITC drops to 26% in 2033 and then 22% in 2034.

      Don’t get confused: the ITC is a credit, meaning it directly decreases the amount of taxes you owe. This is different from a deduction, which reduces your taxable income. It only offsets your tax liability; you can't take advantage of the ITC if you don’t owe taxes in the first place. However, the credit rolls over to the next tax year if you don’t use the full amount.

      You may be able to take advantage of additional solar incentives in Oregon, like rebates, statewide net metering and programs for low- and moderate-income residents. 

      What to know about net metering in Oregon

      Net metering lets Oregon homeowners sell their excess solar power to the local power grid. The goal of net metering is to let you produce enough renewable electricity for your own home's needs, but not drastically more than what you use. Here's how it works:

      • Your utility company will install a special meter that measures both the electricity you use from them and any extra you send into the grid.
      • You will only be charged for your "net" electricity use (what you use minus what you add to the grid).
      • If your panels make more than you use in a month, your bill should be just the basic utility connection fee, usually around $12 in Oregon.

      Are solar panels worth it in Oregon?

      For many residents, going solar is worth it in Oregon for the long-term financial savings. In fact, it is one of the best states for solar panels. The state has especially favorable net metering policies, which help maximize savings on monthly electric bills. Over 25 years, Oregon homeowners with solar panels can save about $52,903 in total utility power costs. 

      If you get a storage battery, you have reliable backup power during outages, too. Though, some go solar primarily to reduce their carbon footprints. For example, Gary in Sisters, Oregon, did it "because I feel it is the right thing to do for the planet and for humanity's long term survival."

      ... it is the right thing to do for the planet and for humanity's long term survival."

      — GARY IN SISTERS, OR

      ​It’s a common misconception that solar completely eliminates electricity costs. While monthly bills are rarely zero, solar owners typically pay much less than they would by relying solely on traditional utilities. 

      Based on feedback from thousands of people who have already gone solar, it’s generally worth it. The savings add up over the system's lifespan, offsetting the upfront installation costs. On average, it takes solar panels approximately 12.5 years to pay for themselves in Oregon.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      FAQ

      Can I get free solar panels in Oregon?

      We are not aware of any legitimate programs for free solar panels in Oregon. However, you can lease a solar energy system with little to no upfront costs. Just look out for scams that promise free solar panels — they can end up costing you quite a bit of money.

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      Will pigeons nest in my solar panels?

      At least one resident told us about this being a problem. “I am a little worried about the long-term effect of pigeon poop and pigeon nests,” Robin in Portland, Oregon, said.

      Installing mesh or netting around the perimeter of the panels can prevent some of these issues. You can also put anti-bird spikes on the edges of solar panels to deter pigeons from landing or nesting. Sometimes, even a simple plastic owl or other decoy can work, though this varies in effectiveness.

      Pigeons (and birds in general) do pose some challenges to solar panel installations, but they're not likely to harm your panels. Still, here's how they can be problematic:

      • Nesting: Birds, particularly pigeons in urban settings, might find the space beneath solar panels a perfect location for nesting. Their nests can accumulate debris and potentially interfere with the electrical systems underneath or the mounting equipment.
      • Droppings: Pigeon droppings are quite acidic. Over time, they can also cause hot spots on solar panels that reduce their efficiency by obscuring light.
      • Maintenance issues: Maintenance checks might become more challenging due to the presence of nests, droppings and the birds themselves. Cleaning the panels might be needed more frequently.
      Should I replace my roof before going solar?

      As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This will cost around $5,000 for a 19-panel setup.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      How many solar companies are in Oregon?

      As of publishing, there are 135 solar energy companies in Oregon, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).

      What’s the difference between a solar broker and a solar installer?

      A solar broker is a middleman or intermediary who helps connect homeowners with solar installation companies. A solar installer specializes in designing, procuring and installing solar panels and related components. Ultimately, deciding between a solar broker and a solar installer depends on how much you want to be involved in the process. A broker can be helpful if you value convenience. If you want more control and potentially lower costs, it’s best to work directly with a solar installer.

      What is the difference between a solar lease and a PPA?

      If you lease a solar system or enter a PPA, you don't own the panels, but you benefit from the cheap electricity they produce. The solar company that owns the system is responsible for maintaining it, so you don't have to worry about ongoing maintenance costs. The key difference is how you pay.

      • Lease: Entering a solar lease is basically renting a solar panel system. As with leasing a car, you pay a fixed amount every month over a set period of time, typically 25 years.
      • Power purchase agreement: With a PPA, you don't pay a fixed monthly price. You pay for the electricity the panels produce, usually at a fixed rate that’s lower than you would receive without a PPA.

      Methodology

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team objectively evaluates solar providers to highlight those best equipped to meet most homeowners' needs. To choose our top picks for this guide, we started with a list of popular providers. First, we narrowed it down to the ones available in Oregon. We then weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%
      We analyzed solar company reviews by verified solar customers to gauge real-world satisfaction. Companies with the most positive recent ratings left by local reviewers on our site were given preference.

      Equipment selection: 20%
      We evaluated each company’s selection of solar panels, storage batteries and inverters. Those with proprietary technology or a wide equipment selection from trusted brands ranked highest.

      Warranties: 20%
      A long warranty is important — it shows that a company stands behind its product and services. We compared companies on both equipment and craftsmanship warranties terms. All of our top picks have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      Financing and payment options: 10%
      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      Overall reputation: 10%
      We considered each company's history, mission and value. Companies with generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect.

      To recap, our top picks for the best solar companies in Oregon are:

      1. Blue Raven Solar: Our pick for financing options
      2. ION Solar: Our pick for simple process
      3. ShopSolar: Our pick for DIY projects

      Not sure how to choose?

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        Guide sources

        ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

        1. Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency, "Oregon Programs." Accessed March 29, 2024. 
        2. EnergySage, “The cost of solar panels in Oregon.” Accessed March 29, 2024. 
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Oregon Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024. 
        4. SolarReviews, “How much do solar panels cost in Oregon, 2024?” Accessed March 29, 2024. 
        5. Oregon Department of Energy, “​Solar in Oregon.” Accessed May 6, 2024. 
        6. DSIRE, “Oregon Solar and Wind Easements/Rights Laws & Local Option Solar Rights Law.” Accessed May 6, 2024. 
        7. Energy Trust of Oregon, “Understanding Recs.” Accessed May 6, 2024. 
        8. Oregon Department of Energy, “Oregon Solar + Storage Rebate Program: Homeowners.” Accessed May 6, 2024.

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