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Best 5 Solar Companies in Tigard, OR
The best solar company in Tigard is Sunpath Services.
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- Updated 2024-04-18 00:00:00
With Tigard's clear skies and little rainfall, it's a perfect area for families and businesses looking to harness the additional sunlight by purchasing panels from one of the best solar companies. While switching to solar energy comes with upfront costs, local homeowners could ultimately save $1,000 per kilowatt on their electric bills. A professional installation team can help you choose the best panels to maximize your savings. On this page, we'll showcase Tigard's best solar installers and offer expert advice for your solar journey.
5 Best Solar Companies in Tigard
Brands are algorithmically curated from a database of local service providers near you. We require a minimum number of Google reviews and average ratings for provider inclusion.
Sunpath Services
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
ION Solar - Oregon
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Advanced Energy Services
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
A&R Solar
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Rose City Solar Systems
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Ranking Methodology
We analyzed a multitude of Tigard solar providers, using the following criteria to choose the superior:
- Service offerings and warranties: Solar contractors should stand behind their systems and services with warranties. We evaluated how each company responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on timeliness and customer happiness.
- Panel quality and brand offerings: The top solar companies stay up-to-date with new technology, providing equipment from cutting-edge and trustworthy manufacturers.
- Professional licenses and credentials: Each provider on our list complies with state and city licensing requirements and stays up to date with industry best practices. Many of them have been a part of the Tigard community for more than a decade.
- Educational approach and support: Solar technicians must be knowledgeable. They should utilize their years of experience answer your questions on how to maintain your system and maximize its performance.
- Reviews and feedback from customers: Most Tigard solar companies have both favorable and unfavorable reviews. However, a good review ratio demonstrates a company's trustworthiness and responsiveness to issues.
Facts about Tigard
- Average Max Temperature:59°F
- Solar Payback Period:12 years
- Average Daily Sunlight:51%
- Homes Powered by Solar:1,750
- Average Annual Energy Bill:$1,405
- Solar Power per Capita:83.5%
Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides numerous advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Lowered energy bills: You can avoid the premium cost of grid-tied power by producing some electricity right where you use it. Plus, many states offer net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back for credits on your bill.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with battery backups and storage systems work through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on the grid for your safety and comfort.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power reduces your dependence on fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases that damage the environment.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Tigard Homeowners?
Oregon's public agencies and power companies offer a variety of solar incentives to help minimize your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of eligible solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type:Rebate Program
Website:http://www.energytrust.org
Incentive Amount:
Varies (see below)
Incentive Type:Rebate Program
Website:https://www.oregon.gov/energy/Incentives/Pages/Solar-Storage-Rebate-Program.aspx
Incentive Amount:
Varies, see below
Incentive Type:Property Tax Incentive
Website:https://www.oregon.gov/energy/Incentives/Pages/default.aspx
Incentive Amount:
100%
Incentive Type:Rebate Program
Website:https://www.crpud.net/clean-energy/choice-energy-solar-rebates/
Incentive Amount:
Solar PV: $1,000
Incentive Type:Rebate Program
Website:https://www.portlandgeneral.com/residential/energy-savings/special-offers-incentives
Incentive Amount:
Heat Pump Instant Discount: $200
Efficient Heat Pumps: $700
Heat Pump Controls: $250
Ductless Heat Pump: $800
Smart Thermostat: $50-$100
Heat Pump Water Heaters: $500 (special pricing available at certain retailers as well)
Incentive Type:Loan Program
Website:http://www.oregon.gov/energy/At-Work/Pages/Energy-Loan-Program.aspx
Incentive Amount:
None
Incentive Type:Rebate Program
Incentive Amount:
Varies based on performance above code and the particular energy efficient measures installed; can range from $600 to $4,680
Solar ready incentive: up to $200
Incentive Type:Grant Program
Website:http://www.energytrust.org/
Incentive Amount:
Varies
Incentive Type:Personal Tax Credit
Website:https://www.ecowatch.com/solar/ev-appliance-solar-tax-credit-calculator
Incentive Amount:
30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.
How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Tigard
The more informed your company investigation is, the better your solar panels will ultimately operate. Make your choice based on the following essential elements.
Licensing and Training
Solar installers in Oregon must be licensed and bonded by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board. For PV 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 licensed solar heating installer and a plumbing journeyman. Solar installers can also pursue certifications from standards organizations and trade groups. The most recognized 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 Tigard
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels offer the best energy production but cost more than other options and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels provide a lower price point but produce less power. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.
You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can increase your solar system's efficiency. Not every solar contractor offers these extras, so look for a provider that sells them if it's essential for you.
You can plan to spend about $17,500 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Tigard. Use the table in this section to get an idea of what amount Tigard solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,301.79 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $1,015.39 |
Thin-Film | $593.61 |
Solar Battery | $833.14 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $3,124.29 |
Financing Solar Energy in Tigard
Solar companies offer multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are cash payments, power purchase agreements (PPAs), solar leases and solar loans. We advise paying with cash or using a solar loan for the best return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also have full ownership of your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to minimize your total costs. Solar loans are another good option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in installments while still enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) permits you to pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the system and cannot use solar incentives. Ask each installer you're evaluating about the payment options it offers. A salesperson can help you determine the optimal option for your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Tigard.
A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to new home solar systems purchased through 2032. Further incentives may be available through city and state governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.
Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
---|---|
1 kW | 1.8 years |
2 kW | 3.6 years |
5 kW | 8.9 years |
10 kW | 17.9 years |
Frequently Asked Questions about Solar in Tigard
On average, Tigard homeowners pay around $1,405 per year on energy bills. Once you pay off your solar array, you could save $1,031.05 for every kilowatt you produce.
Yes, solar energy is readily available in Tigard. A growing number of area homes generate or access solar power on-site or through utility grids, and Oregon has about 3750 jobs making up its solar economy.
Yes, solar energy systems will raise your property value. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, for every dollar you reduce on energy bills, your home value increases by $20. So, if your panels save you $600 per year on energy costs, your property could appreciate $12,000.
Solar panels could still operate in bad weather. Your technician will orient your panels to absorb the most sunlight possible. They might also recommend a backup battery to keep your system working at its best.
To determine your home's solar readiness, there's no substitute for a comprehensive estimate from a local solar contractor. However, you can use the PVWatts tool for a simple solar viability estimate based on public data, including system size, panel efficiency, tree cover, and local weather and topography.
The average payback period for a solar loan in Tigard is 11.9 years. By paying off extra principal each month, you can shorten the payback period and own your system faster.
Net metering is a system that credits solar homeowners for any excess electricity they generate and return to the grid.
Some states or power companies require you to join net metering when installing your solar system, while others give you a choice. Either way, once you sign up, you'll receive a check or bill credit for your excess generation at a retail or wholesale rate.
While many online reviews are positive, even the leading solar installers might have complaints. You should know these early warning signs for the best odds of an exemplary job:
- Pressuring you into signing a contract
- Being evasive about warranties, cost, references and credentials and training
- "One-size-fits-all" approach
- Superficial, rushed site evaluation
- No business filing with your local secretary of state
Sources
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