Oregon solar panels: The complete guide in 2025
Data updated Jul 15, 2025
Ready to go solar in Oregon? To offset the average typical electric bill, you’ll need a 12.11 kW system, which costs about $22,590 after the federal tax credit.
Cost for an average system in Oregon
| Out of pocket cost, cash | $32,272 |
| Federal tax credit (30%) | - $9,682 |
| Price post tax credit | $22,590 |
| 25-year savings | Payback period | Electricity offset |
|---|---|---|
| $51,169 | 9 Years | 92% |
As long as your federal tax bill is high enough, you can take advantage of the federal investment tax credit (ITC).
See your solar savings
Compare multiple offers and save up to 20%
Going solar in Oregon
Oregon has fairly low electricity prices, so it's not an obvious fit for solar. But its commitment to renewable energy has translated to some solid solar incentives—especially if you're considered a low- or moderate-income household.
In Oregon, you'll have access to net metering, rebates for solar + battery systems, and, depending on where you live, some pretty lofty local incentives. These incentives help make solar worth it for many Oregonians.
Here's our guide to going solar in the Beaver State.
Cost
How much do solar panels cost in Oregon?
Solar panels will save you a lot of money over time, but the upfront costs aren't cheap. The average Oregon homeowner needs a 12.11 kW solar panel system to cover their electricity needs, which comes out to $32,272 before incentives. Prices range from $27,431 to $37,113, but after the federal tax credit, that drops by 30%. However, the federal tax credit is now set to expire after 2025, following recent legislative changes. If you're considering solar, starting the process now could save you $9,682.
After the federal tax credit, that drops by 30%, and Oregon has some local incentives as well, including the Oregon Solar + Storage Rebate Program and the Solar Within Reach program. That's why over 17,000 Oregon homeowners have used EnergySage to receive and compare quotes for solar installations. You can expect to earn back your initial solar investment through electricity savings in about 9.29 years, while most systems last at least 25 years. You'll often see this number referenced as your solar payback period.
There are a few ways to pay for your solar panel system, each with its pros and cons.
Cash purchase: You pay for your system upfront. While it’s the most expensive option initially, it provides the best long-term savings.
Solar loan: You owe little to nothing upfront and make monthly payments on your system. With a solar loan, you get to maintain ownership of your panels. Still, they aren't all created equal: If you have access to subsidized clean energy loans through local incentive programs, that's usually your best bet. If not, go with a home equity loan or a personal loan. Private solar loans typically come with higher interest rates or upfront fees.
Solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA): You have little to no upfront costs, but a third-party company owns your system. Depending on your contract, you’ll either lease your solar panels (solar lease) or purchase the electricity they generate (PPA). While they can make sense in some situations, third-party ownership models generally provide the lowest savings. They can be beneficial, but remember to read the fine print.
)
Incentives
What are the best solar rebates and incentives in Oregon?
Incentives help bring solar's price tag down considerably in Oregon. Here are the major ones to know about:
| Incentive | Average savings in Oregon | Description |
|---|---|---|
Residential Clean Energy Tax Credit, formerly the federal investment tax credit (ITC) | $9,682 | Lowers your solar panel system's cost by 30%, but expires on January 1, 2026. |
Oregon Solar + Storage Rebate Program | Up to $5,000 for solar | If you install a battery with your solar panels, it lowers your solar panel cost by up to $5,000 and your battery cost by up to $2,500. The program no longer has funds at this time. |
Solar Within Reach | Up to $6,000 for solar | If you're income-eligible, it lowers your solar panel cost by up to $6,600 and your battery cost by up to $11,700 |
Local rebates | Up to $2,500 for solar | Depending on your utility company and where you live, additional rebates may lower your system's cost |
Is net metering available in Oregon?
Some states grant you bill credits that you earn from your utility company whenever your solar panel system generates excess electricity and sends it to the grid. This incentive is known as net metering, and it can significantly reduce—or even eliminate—your electric bill.
As long as your system is under 25 kW, you can benefit from net metering in Oregon, though Idaho Power is trying to stop offering it. Check out the details on net metering in Oregon or see the specific programs below:
Equipment
Equipment quality
Solar panel efficiency continues to improve every year—that is, they produce more power per square foot. As of 2025, many top-selling solar panels produce around 450 watts in full sunlight. To maximize your roof’s production potential, look for panels with at least that level of output.
It’s also important to choose an inverter setup that fits the design of your roof.
And if you plan to add a solar battery, make sure it’s compatible with your inverter setup for smooth integration.
While higher-end equipment can be more expensive upfront, it often leads to greater savings over time. Premium products usually come with longer warranties—up to 25 years or more—and are built to last. They also degrade more slowly, meaning you’ll get more consistent energy production further into the future.
Companies
Who are the best solar installers in Oregon?
We pre-screen all of the solar companies on EnergySage to ensure they'll provide you with a high-quality installation. We then rate them based on their results, reputation, and responsiveness. Here are the highest-rated EnergySage installers in Oregon:
)
resources
Top solar resources for Oregon
- Oregon Solar Loan Providers
Search through our list of top loan providers to finance your solar panel system.
- Community Solar farms in Oregon
Can't install solar on your roof? Check out local solar farms to save money.
- Oregon Department of Energy
Learn about federal funding for Oregon's clean energy programs.
- Oregon Public Utility Commission
Read more about how utility companies work in OR.
- Oregon Electricity Profile (EIA)
Learn about Oregon energy production and prices.
- OR State Solar Factsheet (SEIA)
See quick stats about how much solar energy has grown in OR.
Real homes. Real savings.
Helping customers make informed decisions since 2009.
Learn more about solar
Explore heat pumps, the latest in clean heating & cooling technology.
