Solar & Your Roof
Your roof is a key component of your solar system and we want to ensure years of seamless energy production for your home.
Your Roof and Solar: The Smart Way to Go Solar with Confidence
Why Your Roof Matters for Solar
Your roof is the foundation of your solar energy system. At National Solar, we believe in providing clear, honest, and expert guidance, ensuring your home is solar-ready, whether your roof is brand-new, in excellent condition, or needs repairs.
New Roof or Great Condition? You're Ready to Go!
If your roof is new or in good condition, installing solar is straightforward. Solar panels can even extend the life of your roof by shielding it from harsh UV rays and weather elements.
- Panels installed professionally
- National Solar includes a 10-Year Worksmanship Warranty with all installs
Need Roof Repairs or Replacement? We Have You Covered!
If your roof requires repairs or even a full replacement, National Solar simplifies the process:
- We can help connect you with top-rated, local roofing professionals, or you can find a roofing company.
- One convenient financing solution can bundle your roofing project and solar installation together.
- National Solar does not earn commissions or fees on roofing referrals—our only interest is in connecting you with quality roofers we trust.
Why We Don’t Combine Solar and Roofing In-House
While some solar companies in Oregon claim expertise in both roofing and solar installations, the truth is that roofing and solar require distinctly different skill sets. A roofer may not have solar installation expertise, and vice versa. By referring roofing projects to specialized local experts, we ensure:
- Higher quality installations and repairs and access to the highest quality solar products available on the market
- Accurate energy assessments by dedicated energy specialists.
- Long-lasting, worry-free performance for both your roof and your solar energy system.
Companies claiming dual expertise may deliver compromised quality in one or many areas, potentially leading to installation issues, warranty complications, and costly repairs down the road.
FAQs: Roofing and Solar Made Simple
Can I finance my roof and solar installation together?
Yes, National Solar offers convenient financing options, allowing you to cover both roof repairs/replacements and your solar system in one manageable payment.
Do roofing costs qualify for the federal solar tax credit (ITC)?
Generally, no. Roofing costs unrelated directly to the installation of solar panels do not qualify for the ITC. Consult a qualified tax professional for detailed advice.
Will solar panels damage my roof or void my warranty?
No. Properly installed solar panels by National Solar will not damage your roof. We provide professional installations and ensure a seamless installation.
What if I’m unsure about my roof’s condition?
Schedule a free roof and solar inspection with us. We'll give you clear, unbiased guidance about whether your roof needs repairs, replacement, or is ready to go solar immediately.
How do I know if my roof can support solar panels?
Our professional inspection evaluates your roof's structural integrity, materials, and lifespan to ensure it's suitable and safe for solar installation.
What roofing materials work best with solar panels?
Solar panels can be effectively installed on most roof types including asphalt shingles, metal roofs, and tile roofs. During your inspection, we'll explain how your specific roofing material interacts with solar.
Should I replace my roof before installing solar panels?
If your roof has less than 10 years of remaining life, it's usually cost-effective to replace it before going solar. We provide transparent guidance on the best approach for your situation.
How long does the combined roofing and solar installation take?
Typically, roofing repairs or replacements take a few days, and solar installation follows shortly after, solar is typically a faster process than roofing.
Schedule Your Free Roof & Solar Inspection Today!
Ready to explore solar for your home but worried about your roof? National Solar makes it easy. Contact us today to schedule your comprehensive, no-obligation inspection and start your journey toward energy savings and peace of mind.
Why choose National Solar?
17 years of experience
With 17 years of experience, we’ve installed thousands of systems across the Pacific Northwest, earning the trust of local families.
100% In-house team
From design to permitting and installation, our expert team takes care of every step, ensuring a seamless process and top-tier craftsmanship.
Energy Trust of Oregon Trade Ally Contractor
Save money switching to solar with Energy Trust, Oregon State & Federal incentives while they last.
Solar Incentives
Last updated June 13, 2025 at 11:00am
Energy Trust of Oregon Incentives
National Solar is proud to be an Energy Trust of Oregon Trade Ally Contractor since 2009. Take advantage of the incentives below by partnering with a Trade Ally.
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Federal Tax Credit
The Most of our customers qualify for the 30% U.S. Federal Tax Credit (ITC). A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the income taxes that a person or company would otherwise pay the federal government. The ITC is based on the amount of investment in solar property. We always recommend consulting your tax professional for your specific situation.
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How do I claim the Solar Federal Tax Credit?
To claim the federal solar tax credit, you will fill out form 5695 when doing your federal taxes. If you get a system through National Solar you receive a binder manual that includes last years 5695 form and more information on how to claim your tax credit as well as information on your system. Want to see a draft from the IRS now? View the IRS Form 5695 here.
Solar: Net Metering
Oregon’s net metering law allows all utility customers to generate their own electricity and reduce their electricity bills. If you install a solar electric system, your utility will come to your site and switch out your existing utility meter for a bidirectional “net” meter (there is no charge for the new meter). This meter keeps track of the power you acquire from the utility and what you supply to the grid. Each month, the power you use from your utility is offset by the power you send to the utility. You are only charged for the difference or the “net.”
How does net metering work?
If you generate more power than you use in a given month, your electric bill will have no kilowatt-hour charges, and you will only have to pay the basic utility service charges. The surplus energy will generate kilowatt-hour credits that will be applied to your future electric bills. Unused credits will accumulate in your Portland General Electric or Pacific Power account. This means credits accumulated during sunny summer months, especially in Central Oregon, can be applied to charges during Oregon’s cloudy winter months. Some of the energy companies in the State of Oregon offer net metering:
- Portland General Electric (PGE): PGE provides a net metering program where customers can balance the electricity they use from PGE with the energy they send back from their power-generating systems.
- Pacific Power: Pacific Power offers net metering options for its customers, allowing them to receive credits for excess energy generated by their renewable systems.
- Central Electric Cooperative (CEC): CEC members who generate their own electricity using solar, wind, fuel cells, or hydroelectric power can interconnect with CEC's electric grid through a net metering agreement.
- Douglas Electric Cooperative: Douglas Electric Cooperative offers net metering services to its members, enabling them to offset their energy consumption with self-generated renewable energy.
EWEB Solar Incentives & Net Metering
The following net metered and direct generation rates are effective February 2025.
For net metering, excess energy generated by solar customers that exceeds their own consumption will be credited to their bill at the 2025 Annual Renewable Net-Metered Rate of $0.0710 per kWh (down from $0.1045 in 2024).
For direct generation, energy generated and sold directly to EWEB will be purchased at the 2025 Annual Renewable Generation Purchase Rate (Purchased Power and RECs) of $0.0768 per kWh (down from $0.1102 in 2024).
These rates decreased from 2024 because energy prices in the broader market went down. Since EWEB's solar rates are currently based on these market prices, they fluctuate and can be highly volatile.
You can learn more about EWEB's current solar rates here.
Salem Electric Solar Incentives & Net Metering
Salem Electric (SE) supports members in adopting renewable energy by offering financial incentives for qualifying solar systems and a robust net metering program. If you're a Salem Electric customer, these benefits can help make going solar more affordable.
Solar Incentives from Salem Electric
Salem Electric provides the following incentives for solar systems:
- $300 per kW installed for qualifying systems (maximum incentive: $1,500).
- Incentives cannot exceed 50% of the total project cost and are subject to fund availability.
This program applies to net-metered solar systems with a nameplate capacity of 25 kW or less that comply with SE’s Net Metering Policy.
Net Metering with Salem Electric
Salem Electric offers a net metering program for its members, allowing them to generate electricity and receive credits for the excess energy sent back to the grid. Credits earned from surplus energy can offset your energy costs during months when solar production is lower.
You can learn more about Salem Electric's Solar Information here.
Have more questions about incentives?
Request an Estimate from National Solar to get started, we will answer all of your questions and verify your eligibility to see which incentives you qualify for.