What are the top 5 solar companies in Oregon? With over 70 installers to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But with Oregon’s strong net metering policies and an average payback period of just 13 years, solar can save you up to $30,323 over your system’s lifetime.
As the state pushes for cleaner energy, mandating “solar-ready” new homes and aiming for Zero Emission Vehicles by 2035—choosing the right installer is more important than ever. The right partner will help you tap into key incentives like the 30% federal tax credit and local rebates, making your transition smooth and cost-effective.
This guide highlights Oregon’s solar landscape, the top 5 solar companies, and everything you need to choose wisely and invest confidently.
Table of Contents
Oregon’s Solar Energy Landscape
Net metering policy benefits
Oregon’s favorable net metering policies allow homeowners to receive credits for excess solar energy sent back to the grid. These benefits include:
- Lower electricity bills
- Faster return on investment
- Protection against utility rate increases
- Environmental contribution
| Policy Component | Benefit to Homeowner |
|---|---|
| 1:1 Credit Rate | Full retail value for excess energy |
| Annual Rollover | Credits last 12 months |
Solar battery considerations
When evaluating solar battery options in Oregon, consider both financial and practical factors. Key considerations include:
- Battery capacity needs are based on household consumption
- Weather resilience during winter months
- Incentive availability through Energy Trust of Oregon
- Backup power capabilities during outages
Top 5 Solar Companies in Oregon
1. Blue Raven Solar: Financing advantages and in-house installation
Blue Raven Solar stands with a 4/5 rating on Google with its proprietary BluePower Plus+ financing, offering 18 months of zero payments. Their in-house installation team ensures quality control throughout your solar project, eliminating subcontractor inconsistencies.
Contact details:
- Address: 400 N Center Dr Ste 215, Norfolk, VA 23502
- Phone: (800) 377-4480
- Email: support@blueravensolar.com
2. A&R Solar: Local service and community commitment
A&R Solar’s employee-owned structure creates accountability in every project. Their commitment to Oregon communities includes donations to local environmental initiatives and maintaining a stellar 4.8/5 customer rating across review platforms.
| Company | Financing Options | Installation Approach | Customer Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Raven | BluePower Plus+ | In-house team | 4.7/5 |
| A&R Solar | Multiple options | Employee-owned | 4.8/5 |
Key benefits of these top providers:
- Direct communication channels
- Transparent pricing structures
- Extended warranty options
- Post-installation support
Contact details:
- Address: 19636 SW 90th Ct, Tualatin, OR 97062
- Phone: +1 (503) 420-8680
- Email: Info@a-rsolar.com
3. SunPower
SunPower doesn’t mess around with average panels. Their Maxeon technology delivers up to 22.7% efficiency, the highest in Oregon’s residential market. When Portland clouds roll in, these panels still outperform competitors by capturing more sunlight from indirect angles.
Comprehensive warranty coverage
Their 25-year complete system warranty covers everything—panels, racking, monitoring, and labor. No fine print about degradation rates or service calls. Oregon homeowners love this stress-free protection, especially with extreme weather swings from summer heat to winter ice.
Contact details
- Phone: +1.800.786.7693
4. Sunlight Solar Energy
Sunlight Solar Energy isn’t new to the game, it has received 3.8/5 ratings on Facebook by customers. They’ve been powering Oregon homes since 1988, making them one of the most experienced solar installers in the state. Their team knows Oregon’s unique climate challenges and permitting processes inside out.
Strong relationships with local utilities
The folks at Sunlight have built rock-solid partnerships with utilities across Oregon. This means fewer paperwork headaches for you and smoother interconnection processes. Their technicians handle all the utility coordination, so you don’t have to.
Contact details:
- Address: 150 NE Hawthorne Ave, Bend, Oregon 97701
- Phone: (541) 322-1910
5. Solar Oregon
Solar Oregon isn’t just any non-profit. They’re the go-to folks for solar education in the state, running workshops that break down complex solar concepts into bite-sized pieces anyone can understand. Their community events create spaces where curious homeowners can ask real questions and get straight answers about going solar.
Quality contractor network
Finding trustworthy solar installers can be tough. Solar Oregon maintains a vetted network of contractors who meet their strict quality standards. This takes the guesswork out for homeowners and ensures your solar project is in capable hands from start to finish.
Contact details:
- Address: 1661 SE 3rd Ave F301, Portland, OR 97214 Phone: (503) 208-5688
- Phone: (503) 208-5688
Key Selection Criteria for Solar Installers
Experience and years in business (minimum 5 years recommended)
When selecting a solar installer, prioritize companies with at least 5 years of industry experience. Established installers have weathered market fluctuations and refined their practices, typically delivering better quality installations.
Required licensing and certifications
Solar installers must possess specific credentials to operate legally and effectively:
- Oregon Electrical Contractor License
- NABCEP Certification (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners)
- Liability insurance coverage
- Local business licenses
| Certification | Importance | What it Verifies |
|---|---|---|
| NABCEP | Essential | Technical competence |
| Electrical License | Required | Legal compliance |
Financial Considerations
Average installation costs and price per watt
Solar installation in Oregon typically costs between $11,000-$27,000, with an average price per watt ranging from $2.70-$3.50. Factors affecting costs include:
- System size (5- 10 kW common for residential)
- Equipment quality
- Installation complexity
- Location within Oregon
| System Size | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 5kW | $13,500-$17,500 |
| 10kW | $27,000-$35,000 |
Financing options: cash, loans, leases, and PPAs
Oregonians have several financing pathways to make solar affordable. Cash purchases provide immediate ownership and maximum savings, while solar loans offer $0 down options with monthly payments.
- Cash purchase: Highest long-term ROI
- Solar loans: Fixed monthly payments
- Solar leases: No ownership, lower savings
- Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs): Pay for power, not equipment
Selecting the right solar company in Oregon is a crucial decision that can impact both your financial returns and environmental footprint. As we’ve explored, Oregon’s favorable net metering policies, combined with federal and state incentives, make solar energy an attractive investment with potential savings exceeding $30,000 over the system’s lifetime. The top five solar companies we’ve highlighted—Blue Raven Solar, A&R Solar, Power Northwest, Sunbridge Solar, and Sunlight Solar Energy—each offer unique strengths in financing, customer service, equipment quality, and additional services that can help meet your specific needs.
When making your decision, carefully consider the selection criteria we’ve discussed, including company experience, proper licensing, financing options, and warranty coverage. Remember that while the initial investment may seem substantial, the 13-year average payback period in Oregon makes solar a sound long-term investment. With Oregon’s commitment to renewable energy and the upcoming Zero Emission Vehicle mandate, installing solar panels—and potentially EV chargers—is not just environmentally responsible but also a forward-thinking choice for your home’s energy future. Take the time to gather multiple quotes, understand the specifics of each proposal, and choose a solar partner that aligns with both your values and energy goals.