Josephine NesbitContributing Writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Apr. 22, 2024
Editorial note: Homefront (defined in the Disclosure below) may earn a commission from affiliate partner links featured on our site. This commission does not influence our editors' opinions or evaluations
Read MoreJoin more than 1,246 people who have received a quote in the last 30 days.
Homefront Local uses a unique algorithm to score solar companies based on important factors like user reviews and how popular they are in your area.
To complete a high-quality solar panel installation in Lake Oswego, Oregon, you'll need a certified, qualified and experienced solar installer. We've compiled a list of the leading solar companies in Lake Oswego to help you select the right one.
Before selecting an installer, request referrals, screen potential installers and obtain multiple quotes to find the ideal company for your requirements. You can look for a local solar company in Lake Oswego or pick an established national brand.
Although solar panels require a large initial investment, you can reduce your energy bills in the long term by making the switch. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), adopting solar energy enables Lake Oswego homeowners to save a yearly average of around $900.
The offerings from different solar technicians vary. Be sure to compare companies and get quotes before you schedule your solar panel installation.
When looking into Lake Oswego solar companies, look for those with a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, in addition to a decent reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
You should read through past customer reviews to get insight into other homeowners' thoughts about the company. Watch for frequent negative feedback as a potential warning sign.
Places with differing amounts of sun, including those with higher levels of rain or cloud coverage like Lake Oswego, can still take advantage of solar energy. Here are the best reasons for adopting solar power:
Based on our survey carried out in October 2023, the median national cost of solar panel installation is $11,743.
The price of solar panel installation is influenced by several factors, such as where you live, availability of sunlight, roof direction, shading, system size and labor. Expect to pay more if you select extras like solar trackers, batteries or animal guards.
Based on numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the EIA and NASA, solar panel installation in Lake Oswego has an average cost of $10,474.
While solar panel installation can be a substantial initial cost, you are positioned to see significant savings on your electricity costs over time.
After moving completely to solar power, Lake Oswego homeowners typically see cost savings. However, recouping the initial investment requires time, and things like rain and tree shade affect the timeline for realizing returns on your solar investment.
Beyond cost savings, transitioning to solar power also shrinks your carbon footprint and minimizes your environmental impact. Provided below are the projected CO2 emission reductions you can expect from solar energy, as determined by our analysis of data from NASA and the EPA.
Experts Ready to Help
Lake Oswego homeowners can benefit from various solar incentives. Particular programs are provided statewide to all Oregon residents, while others differ based on municipality, city and utility company.
The following solar incentives are offered to Oregon residents, according to DSIRE:
Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
---|---|
Rebate Program Solar Electric Incentive Program | Varies (see below) |
Rebate Program Solar + Storage Rebate Program | Varies, see below |
Property Tax Incentive Renewable Energy Systems Exemption | 100% |
Rebate Program Columbia River PUD - Solar PV Net Metering Rebate | Solar PV: $1,000 |
Rebate Program Portland General Electric - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | 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) |
Loan Program State Energy Loan Program | None |
Rebate Program New Homes Incentive Program | 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 |
Grant Program Custom Renewable Energy Projects | Varies |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 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. |
Consider the following before hiring a professional solar panel installation company.
Your solar panel system's size is contingent upon your home's energy consumption and the system's production capacity. Bigger households use more electricity and will potentially require bigger solar setups. An undersized system could struggle to fully energize your house.
Your solar installation project could be subject to applicable codes and permit requirements by your state. You'll need to apply for the required permits from your local building department, as well as schedule an inspection.
Not all homes receive the same amount of sunlight. Trees, rainfall and severe weather conditions in your area can impact sunlight access. If your home doesn’t get enough sunlight, then you may require extra panels with a higher wattage.
A lot of solar panel systems provide a battery. Solar batteries keep extra power, which is especially useful when you want to prevent power loss in a storm. Adding battery storage could raise the cost of installation.
You can choose from several types of solar panels, each varying in design, life expectancy and efficiency. These factors not only influence the price, but also how quickly you’ll need to replace panels and the amount of space the panels take up on your roof.
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics. Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Go back to top
Our editors may use AI as an input tool to tailor information in local markets. All content goes through a rigorous research and review process led by our team of writers and editors.
Our guide explores the best solar companies available. Trinity and Elevation top our list for their services, and Sunrun rounds it out with its leasing options.
solarApr. 23
While you can save money installing DIY solar panels, it’s not a simple home improvement project and does require electrical know-how as well as roofing skills.
solarMar. 27
Sleek and innovative, solar shingles are gaining rapid popularity. They cost more than traditional solar panels but are also more aesthetically pleasing.
solarMar. 25
Solar panels last about 25 years, according to our expert. Our guide explains how to get the most out of your system’s life.
solarMar. 27