As electricity prices rise across Oregon, and with growing concerns over the health of the environment, an increasing number of Portland homeowners are exploring solar power as an alternative energy source for powering their homes. Empowered by Oregon’s strong statewide clean‑energy goals and utility incentive funds, thousands of homeowners are taking advantage of solar power. SunPower is proud to be supporting homeowners as they make the transition to clean, renewable solar power.
Portland is a great fit for solar power, even though it may not have the sunniest reputation, because the area receives enough consistent sunlight throughout the year to support efficient solar energy production. With an annual average of 4 peak sun hours per day, based on regional solar modeling conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory,1 Portland has the potential to provide meaningful energy production through solar power. Additionally, modern solar panels are even designed to perform well in diffuse light, ensuring Portland can be a strong candidate for residential solar.
System performance depends on several factors, including shading, weather, and system design.
Portland homeowners may benefit from state and local incentive programs that may help offset the upfront costs of going solar. Some of these incentive programs include:
Net Metering: Some Portland utility providers may offer net‑metering programs. These programs allow homeowners to export excess energy generated during peak sunlight periods to the local power grid. These energy units are exchanged for credits that are applied against the costs of energy utilized during non-peak sunlight conditions, such as nighttime energy use. Specific program terms vary by utility provider.
Property Tax Exemption: Oregon offers a property tax exemption for qualifying renewable energy systems. Essentially, the percentage of property value increase from a solar installation is exempt from being added to a property's estimated tax value.2
Utility Rebates: Both Portland General Electric and Pacific Power offer rebates to help Portland homeowners offset the costs of installation for qualifying solar power systems. Availability and specific terms are varied and subject to change.
Incentives and rebates vary by location and may change. SunPower does not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Customers should consult a qualified professional.
The idea of using “renewable energy sources” to power homes is more than just an abstract concept. Solar power provides Portland residents with an opportunity to have a direct positive impact on the local environment. For example, because solar power units do not emit greenhouse gases during operation, they reduce the overall local “carbon footprint,” or negative impact on the environment. Other advantages of switching to solar power include:
Lower Energy Bills: Using energy generated by a Solar power system may help reduce monthly electricity costs and provide protection against rising utility expense rates.
Energy Security: Portland homeowners may be able to lessen their reliance on the local power grid by generating their own energy with a solar power system.
Environmental Benefits: Solar panels produce no greenhouse gases during operation, improving local air quality and the general quality of life for many Portland residents.
Potential Home Value Impact: While the housing market is ever-changing and varies based on a myriad of factors, including specific location, some studies suggest homes with solar may sell at a premium compared to similar homes without solar.
Backup Power Options: Adding solar storage may help Portland residents keep their homes powered and comfortable during local outages.
SunPower is a great choice for your solar needs because we strive to elevate industry standards in product quality and customer satisfaction. Our customers trust us to provide top-quality customer support through every step of the installation process and more:
High‑Efficiency Panels: All SunPower solar panels are thoroughly tested for quality and chosen for their top-of-the-line technology. Our products are specifically designed to maximize energy production while occupying minimal roof space
Comprehensive 25‑Year Warranty: SunPower product warranties are provided directly by the manufacturer and are subject to their written terms. Solar panels are a significant investment, and we want our customers to know their investments are protected!
Expert Installation Teams: Our installation technicians are local, certified professionals, so our customers can trust that the job will get done efficiently and correctly.
Flexible Financing: Our SunPower team understands that finances are an important consideration when deciding whether to make the change to solar power. We are proud to offer qualifying customers a variety of financing options, including third-party ownership. Specific terms vary; call our friendly Portland agents to learn more!
Smart Monitoring: Our customers are able to conveniently track and monitor their system's performance in real-time, from anywhere, with the SunPower mobile app.
We proudly serve Portland and the surrounding communities, including Beaverton, Gresham, Tigard, Lake Oswego, Hillsboro, and Milwaukie.
When you choose SunPower for your solar installation, you are choosing a partner who is there for you from the beginning of the process to the end:
The first step in any SunPower installation process is a comprehensive evaluation of an individual homeowner's roof size, shape, and layout, as well as their specific energy needs and goals. We then use this information to help our customers create a personalized solar energy plan that best meets their needs
Yes. Portland receives an annual average of about 4 peak sun hours per day on a fixed‑tilt system, according to regional solar modeling conducted by the NREL.1 This is enough to make solar systems a viable option for homeowners hoping to offset dependence on fossil fuels.