The Tesla sunroof is a more expensive option, but it offers a modern design. With the Tesla Solar Roof, Tesla replaces your roof with solar-generating shingles. Tesla solar roofs are guaranteed 95% after five years and 85% after 25 years.
Installation factors must be considered
Solar panels are a significant investment, although prices have fallen in recent years. Before you sign a contract with an installer, you should consider whether solar panels are right for your home. Here are some of the most important factors to think about:
Can you install solar panels? In some states, homeowner associations and neighborhoods may prohibit or restrict the use of solar panels. However, Oregon has a Solar Bill of Rights that guarantees HOA residents the right to install solar panels. Your region may have special approval procedures or requirements, so check ahead.
Are you in a great location for solar energy? Solar cells can work in hot and cold climates and generate energy even in indirect sunlight. However, they will produce significantly more electricity if they receive at least four hours of direct sunlight each day. The more power your panels generate, the less electricity you need to draw from the grid. Oregon receives more rain and less sun each year than the US average. Although solar panels can still generate electricity on cloudy days, they probably won't save you as much money on your bills in Oregon as they would in a sunny state like Florida.
Is your roof suitable for solar energy? The size, shape and even the slope of the roof affect the amount of energy the solar panels can produce. According to the US Department of Energy, roofs with a pitch of 15 to 40 degrees are best suited for solar panels. Roof maintenance or repairs may need to be done before you install the solar panels. Solar panels have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, so you need to make sure your roof is in good shape before installing the panels on it.
Will your insurance cover solar panels? Most homeowner policies cover rooftop solar panels, so you can update your current policy to include your panels. You may want to contact your homeowner's insurance company before or after installation day to find out the details of your policy.
Are you renting a house? If you rent a house or live in an apartment, rooftop solar panels may not be suitable. You can learn more about your home from the owner or property manager. If solar panels are banned, you can find out about solar panels in your area. Public Solar authorizes the payment of subscriptions for solar energy produced elsewhere. In return, you will receive a credit on your electricity bill. The subscription fee you pay is less than the loan you get, so you make it financially. Depending on where you live, you may be eligible for the Oregon Community Solar Program.
Oregon Solar FAQs
Are there solar panels in Oregon?
The answer depends on many factors, including how much energy you use each month, whether your home is a good candidate for solar, and whether you qualify for solar benefits. The biggest weakness of solar panels in Oregon is cloud cover. Since Oregon typically receives a lot of rainfall, solar panels may not be able to generate enough electricity to fully power your home. The average price per watt for solar panels in Oregon is higher than the national average, so you may pay more for a solar system in Oregon than in other states. However, an installed solar system can help you lower your electricity bills significantly, especially after the payback period.
Where does Oregon get its electricity?
Oregon's energy balance is relatively diverse compared to other states. According to the EIA, more than 50% of Oregon's electricity will come from hydro in 2022, and another 32% will come from natural gas. Wind and solar energy also contribute to the state's electricity production. Solar energy is currently the smallest contributor, producing about 4% of the state's energy balance. If solar capacity continues to grow as VSM predicts, this percentage will increase over the next five years.
How to find the right solar panel installer in Oregon?
As the number of solar panel installers increases, it can be difficult to narrow down the choices. When researching potential solar companies, we recommend comparing multiple quotes from different installers to find the best price. However, cost is not the only factor to consider. Don't forget to compare warranty terms, learn about the manufacturers each installer works with, and read customer reviews. You can check out CNET's picks of the best solar companies as a starting point.
