Best 5 Solar Companies in Keizer, OR

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Keizer

The more informed your provider search is, the better your solar panels will ultimately function. Make your choice based on the following important considerations.

Licensing and Training

Solar contractors in Oregon must be licensed and bonded by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board. For photovoltaic installations, each standard journeyman on the job will have at least 8,000 hours of hands-on experience and must keep up with continuing education requirements. Installers of solar thermal systems must be either a plumbing journeyman and a licensed solar heating installer. Solar providers can also obtain certificates from standards organizations and trade groups. The top ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Keizer

The kind of solar panels you purchase determines how much energy you can produce. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't the best for large residential installations, but they are excellent accessories for non-traditional roofs.

Additional accessories, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will raise your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar companies provide these optional components, so look for a company that installs them if it's important for you.

If you're a resident of Keizer and are looking into a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $17,500 for materials and labor. Find more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Keizer

Choosing the ideal financing plan will affect your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include cash payments, power purchase agreements, leases, and loans. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most affordable choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the runner-up option. As with a car loan or mortgage, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for cost-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly fee to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a fluctuating rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in particular circumstances. Look for providers that offer multiple payment plans to find the right fit for your financial needs.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Keizer.

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy equipment until the year 2032. Local and state governments and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and unique financing solutions that could save you more.