Best 10 Solar Companies in Tigard, OR

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sources

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
• U.S. Department of Energy