Question 1

What warranties are included?

Accepted Answer

Every National Solar installation includes a 10-year workmanship warranty on our labor, a 25-year manufacturer warranty on solar panels, and a 15-year battery warranty if applicable. System monitoring is included so you can see daily production in real time.

Question 2

How long does the whole process take?

Accepted Answer

Assessment to installation is typically 4 to 6 weeks. The installation itself takes one day. We handle permitting, design, utility interconnection paperwork, and all local inspections, so you do not manage any of it.

Question 3

What if I move before the system is paid off?

Accepted Answer

Solar adds to your home's resale value. Studies show 4 to 6 percent on average. The system transfers to the new owner, and your net metering agreement typically transfers as well. Most customers find solar is a selling advantage, not a complication.

Question 4

Does the Energy Trust rebate apply to my utility?

Accepted Answer

Energy Trust of Oregon incentives are available to customers of PGE and Pacific Power. CEC, Salem Electric, EWEB, and other utilities operate under different programs. We outline what is available for your specific utility during your assessment.

Question 5

What offset percentage should I expect?

Accepted Answer

Most Oregon homes achieve 80 to 100 percent offset, meaning solar covers 80 to 100 percent of your annual kWh usage. The exact figure depends on your roof's orientation, shading, and system size. We give you the specific number upfront before you commit to anything.

Question 6

Will solar eliminate my utility bill completely?

Accepted Answer

Not entirely. Every utility charges a base or facility fee regardless of solar: PGE around $16/mo, Pacific Power around $14/mo, EWEB around $38.50/mo, Salem Electric around $24/mo, and CEC around $31/mo. Solar eliminates the energy charge, the large variable part that escalates every year. Most customers see their total bill drop to the base charge plus a fixed loan payment.

Question 7

Is solar still worth it without the federal tax credit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Oregon offers some of the most generous state rebates and utility incentives that still make solar a strong investment. We also have fair pricing, strong warranties, and high quality products. Utility companies throughout Oregon continue to raise power rates, and going solar is the best way to protect yourself from future increases.

Question 8

What payment methods are available?

Accepted Answer

We make going solar flexible with multiple options: upfront payment by check, ACH, or credit card, financing plans with low monthly payments, solar leases with no upfront cost, and even Bitcoin for tech-forward homeowners. Our goal is to make clean energy affordable and tailored to every Oregon homeowner.

Question 9

How long will my system last?

Accepted Answer

In the Pacific Northwest you can typically expect modules to last 30 to 50 years or more thanks to our moderate climate. Our Oregon-sourced modules carry a 25 to 30 year warranty, our inverters carry a 25-year warranty, and National Solar adds a 10-year workmanship warranty on every installation.

Question 10

Will solar add to my property tax?

Accepted Answer

No. In Oregon, the value that a PV solar system adds to your home does not affect your property tax, and adding a system does not trigger a reassessment of your property.

Question 11

Do my solar panels need maintenance?

Accepted Answer

A solar system has no moving parts, so little to no maintenance is needed. Keeping panels clean helps production, and Oregon rain usually handles that. If an issue ever arises, we come out and fix it at no cost under our 10-year workmanship warranty.

Question 12

Will solar panels work on my roof?

Accepted Answer

We accommodate nearly any roof, steep or flat, tile, wood, or shingle. Different materials require different mounting methods, which can affect cost. If your roof needs replacement within ten years, we recommend doing that first. If your roof is not ideal, we also offer ground-mounted solutions.

Question 13

Does solar make sense in Oregon despite the cloudy weather?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Despite its reputation for grey skies, Oregon receives more than enough sunlight for solar to perform well, and modern panels still produce on overcast days. Net metering banks your surplus summer production as credits you draw down in the darker winter months, so a properly sized system can offset 80 to 100 percent of a typical Oregon home's annual usage.

Question 14

How much do Oregon homeowners spend on electricity?

Accepted Answer

According to EnergySage, Oregon residents spend about $161 per month on electricity, roughly $1,932 per year. Oregon's average rate is about 17 cents per kilowatt-hour, and the typical home uses about 930 kWh per month, or 11,160 kWh annually. If you pay $100 a month today, you will spend over $70,000 on electricity over the next 30 years as rates climb.

Question 15

How much can solar increase my home's value?

Accepted Answer

According to EnergySage, a solar installation can increase a home's resale value by about 4 percent, or up to roughly $6,000 for each kilowatt of solar installed. Buyers recognize the long-term savings and environmental benefits, and in Oregon the added value is exempt from property tax.

Question 16

What solar incentives are available in Oregon in 2026?

Accepted Answer

National Solar has been an Energy Trust of Oregon Trade Ally Contractor since 2009. Pacific Power and Portland General Electric customers can access Energy Trust cash incentives, and several other Oregon utilities offer their own programs. These stack with Oregon net metering and the state property-tax exemption. (The 30% federal residential tax credit is no longer available for systems placed in service after December 31, 2025.) Incentive amounts vary by utility and income and are not guaranteed.

Question 17

Should I re-roof before installing solar?

Accepted Answer

If your roof will need replacement within about ten years, it is usually smartest to re-roof first. Removing and reinstalling a solar array later adds cost, so combining the projects up front protects your investment. During your free assessment we evaluate your roof's condition and recommend the right sequence.

Question 18

What financing options does National Solar offer?

Accepted Answer

Homeowners have several ways to go solar affordably: zero-down payment plans, solar-specific loans with low interest rates and flexible terms, green energy loans through our specialized lending partners, and home equity financing. We also accept upfront payment by check, ACH, credit card, and even Bitcoin. Contact our team to learn which option fits you best.

Question 19

How does battery backup improve home resilience?

Accepted Answer

Pairing solar with an Enphase battery keeps essential appliances and systems running during grid outages and wildfire-season power shutoffs. Modern solar-plus-storage systems switch to backup automatically, with no manual intervention, so your lights, fridge, internet, and heat stay on when the grid goes down.

Question 20

What solar incentives change on July 1 in Oregon?

Accepted Answer

Effective July 1, Energy Trust of Oregon updated its incentive schedule for PGE and Pacific Power customers. Residential highlights include Solar for Homes at a flat $2,500, Battery Storage for Homes at $400/kWh up to $5,000 (PGE) or $288/kWh up to $3,600 (Pacific Power), and the income-qualified Solar Within Reach offer at $0.90/W up to $5,500 (PGE) or $0.85/W up to $5,250 (Pacific Power). Business and development-assistance incentives updated as well.

Question 21

Which Oregon utilities offer solar incentives?

Accepted Answer

Portland General Electric (PGE) and Pacific Power customers qualify for the full Energy Trust of Oregon incentive schedule. Outside Energy Trust territory, utilities like EWEB and Salem Electric offer their own rebates and net metering, and many co-ops and municipal utilities provide customer-generation programs. We confirm exactly what your utility offers during your free assessment.

Question 22

What is Energy Trust's Solar Within Reach program?

Accepted Answer

Solar Within Reach provides increased solar and battery incentives for income-qualified Oregon households served by PGE or Pacific Power. Qualifying homeowners receive $0.90/W up to $5,500 (PGE) or $0.85/W up to $5,250 (Pacific Power) on solar, plus enhanced battery incentives. Eligibility is based on your county and household size.

Question 23

How do I know if I qualify for Solar Within Reach?

Accepted Answer

Qualification is based on your county and household size against Energy Trust's published annual income maximums (effective June 1). For example, a 4-person household maximum ranges from about $125,400 in many rural counties up to $192,450 in the Portland metro counties. You must own and occupy the home and be a PGE or Pacific Power customer. Use the county lookup on this page to check your maximum, and we'll verify eligibility for you.

Question 24

Can I combine Oregon solar incentives with the federal tax credit?

Accepted Answer

Incentives generally stack. Energy Trust cash incentives, net metering, and Oregon's property tax exemption can be combined. The federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (30%) historically applies to homeowners, but the IRS states it is not available for residential property placed in service after December 31, 2025, so timing matters. Commercial projects may qualify for the Clean Electricity Investment Credit (48E). Always confirm current federal eligibility with a tax professional.

Question 25

How does net metering work in Oregon?

Accepted Answer

Net metering lets you offset the power you draw from the grid with the excess your system exports. PGE accrues kWh credits with an annual true-up each March (unused credits are donated to low-income assistance). Pacific Power credits excess generation at full retail rate, with remaining credits through March transferred to low-income assistance at avoided cost. We size systems to match your annual load so you capture the most value on-site.

Question 26

Are these incentive amounts guaranteed?

Accepted Answer

No. Incentive programs, amounts, and funding can change at any time and are subject to availability. The figures on this page reflect the Energy Trust schedule effective July 1 and are reviewed weekly, but the only way to lock in your exact incentives is a current assessment. As an Energy Trust Trade Ally, National Solar handles the paperwork and applies the incentive directly to your invoice.

Question 27

How much does a solar system cost in Oregon?

Accepted Answer

Pricing depends on your home's energy use, roof or land, equipment, and whether you add battery storage, so there's no single number. The most useful figure is your cost after incentives: most National Solar customers in Bend and across Oregon end up with a monthly solar payment that's less than their previous electric bill. The only way to know your exact price is a free, personalized assessment where we size the system to your usage and apply every incentive you qualify for.

Question 28

What payment and financing options does National Solar offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer four flexible ways to go solar: pay upfront (check, ACH, or credit card) to maximize lifetime savings and own the system outright; low-interest solar financing, often with $0 down for qualified homeowners; a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA) for little-to-no upfront cost with maintenance handled by the provider; and we even accept Bitcoin. We tailor the plan to your budget.

Question 29

Can I really go solar with $0 down in Oregon?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Qualified homeowners can finance their system with little or no money down, so you can start saving from day one. With competitive low-interest loans, many customers replace their utility bill with a comparable or lower monthly solar payment while building equity in an owned asset.

Question 30

Is it better to buy or lease solar panels?

Accepted Answer

Buying (cash or loan) maximizes long-term savings, qualifies you for available incentives, and increases your home's value because you own the system. Leasing or a PPA minimizes upfront cost and shifts maintenance to the provider, which suits homeowners who want predictable payments without ownership. We walk through the trade-offs so you can pick what fits your goals.

Question 31

Do solar incentives lower my out-of-pocket cost?

Accepted Answer

Significantly. Energy Trust of Oregon cash incentives (for PGE and Pacific Power customers), net metering, and Oregon's property tax exemption all reduce your effective cost. As an Energy Trust Trade Ally, National Solar applies eligible incentives directly so your out-of-pocket price reflects them. Incentive amounts vary by utility and income and are not guaranteed.

Question 32

What's included in the price of a National Solar system?

Accepted Answer

Every option includes the same premium equipment and support: REC solar panels with a 25-year warranty, Enphase technology, our 10-year workmanship warranty, system design and engineering, permitting, utility interconnection, and included monitoring. There are no hidden fees, your quote is transparent and itemized.

Question 33

Will solar increase my home's value?

Accepted Answer

Owned solar systems typically increase home value while lowering or eliminating electricity bills, and in Oregon the added value is exempt from property tax. Cash and financed (owned) systems capture this benefit; leased systems generally do not, since the provider owns the equipment.

Question 34

What can a home battery power during an outage?

Accepted Answer

A typical Enphase battery keeps essentials running: lights, refrigerator, internet, phone charging, and select outlets. Larger or expandable systems can also run well pumps, heat, and more. We size your backup around the loads that matter most to you.

Question 35

Do I need solar to get a battery?

Accepted Answer

No. We install stand-alone battery storage as well as solar plus storage. Pairing a battery with solar lets you store your own daytime production for use at night or during an outage.

Question 36

What is load shedding?

Accepted Answer

Load shedding simply means the system automatically prioritizes your most important circuits during an outage so your stored energy lasts longer. You decide what stays on. The battery handles the rest automatically.

Question 37

Why does battery backup matter in Oregon?

Accepted Answer

Oregon sees winter storms, wildfire-season public safety power shutoffs, and an aging grid. A battery keeps your home running when the grid goes down and helps you avoid the highest utility rates.

Question 38

How fast does a home battery respond to an outage?

Accepted Answer

An Enphase Energy Storage System restores power to your home's backed-up circuits in under a second after a grid failure. The switchover is automatic and near-instantaneous, so in most cases you won't even notice the grid is down.

Question 39

Can a single battery power my home through a multi-day outage?

Accepted Answer

A single battery provides enough power and capacity to support most homes through typical outages, and batteries are modular. You can combine multiple units for greater capacity and longer multi-day backup. We size your system around the loads and runtime that matter most to you.

Question 40

Are Enphase batteries safe to install in my home?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Enphase batteries use cobalt-free lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry, which is among the most thermally stable battery chemistries available, and carry UL 9540A safety certification. They are designed for safe indoor or garage wall-mounting in Oregon homes.

Question 41

What battery warranty does National Solar include?

Accepted Answer

Battery storage carries a 15-year manufacturer warranty, alongside our 10-year workmanship warranty on the installation and a 25-year warranty on REC solar panels. System monitoring is included so you can track charge level, backup status, and energy use in real time from the Enphase mobile app.

Question 42

Are there incentives for adding battery storage in Oregon?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. Solar-plus-storage systems can qualify for Energy Trust of Oregon incentives for PGE and Pacific Power customers and utility-specific storage programs where available. As an Energy Trust Trade Ally Contractor since 2009, we outline exactly what your utility offers during your free assessment. (The 30% federal residential tax credit no longer applies to systems placed in service after December 31, 2025.) Incentive amounts vary by utility and income and are not guaranteed.

Question 43

Can I add a battery to my existing solar system?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We retrofit battery storage onto most existing solar installations, not just new ones. During your assessment we confirm compatibility with your current inverter setup and recommend whether an AC-coupled Enphase battery or a fuller system upgrade is the better fit.

Question 44

What's the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 EV chargers?

Accepted Answer

A Level 1 charger plugs into a standard 120-volt household outlet and adds about 4 to 6 miles of range per hour, fine for overnight top-ups or small batteries. A Level 2 charger uses a 240-volt circuit (like an electric dryer) and adds 10 to 30 miles of range per hour. Level 2 is the most popular home option because it fully recharges most EVs overnight, and it requires installation by a certified electrician.

Question 45

How long does it take to charge an EV at home?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your battery size and charger level. Level 1 (120V) adds 4 to 6 miles of range per hour, Level 2 (240V) adds 10 to 30 miles per hour, and Level 3 DC fast chargers add roughly 80 to 100 miles per hour. For example, a Tesla Model 3 Standard Range reaches about 80% in roughly 6 hours on a Level 2 charger; a Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid fully recharges in about 1 to 1.5 hours on Level 2.

Question 46

How much does it cost to install a Level 2 EV charger?

Accepted Answer

Level 2 chargers typically cost $500 to $750 for the unit, with professional installation generally adding another $500 to $1,000 depending on your electrical panel, wiring runs, and any required upgrades. National Solar provides a clear, upfront quote after assessing your home's electrical service.

Question 47

Which EV charger connector do I need — J1772 or NACS?

Accepted Answer

Most Level 2 home chargers use the J1772 (universal) connector, which works with nearly all major EVs except Tesla, which uses the North American Charging Standard (NACS). Tesla owners can use an inexpensive adapter for J1772 ports, and as the industry standardizes on NACS, most automakers and networks are adopting it. We'll recommend the right charger and connector for your specific vehicle.

Question 48

How much solar do I need to charge my electric vehicle?

Accepted Answer

A useful rule of thumb is about 1 kW of solar for every 3,500 miles you drive per year. So 7,000 miles/year needs roughly a 2 kW system, 14,000 miles/year about 4 kW, and 21,000 miles/year about 6 kW. These are starting estimates, we size your system precisely based on your driving habits, vehicle, and household energy use during a free assessment.

Question 49

Can I charge my EV with solar power and battery storage?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and it's the cheapest, cleanest way to fuel an EV. Pairing your charger with solar panels lets you charge with electricity you generate instead of buying it from the utility, and adding an Enphase battery lets you store excess solar to charge overnight or keep your charger running during an outage. Popular EVs like Tesla, Kia, and Rivian all benefit from a solar-plus-storage setup.

Question 50

Should I have my EV charger professionally installed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Level 2 chargers run on a 240-volt circuit and require proper electrical connections, often a dedicated breaker and sometimes a panel upgrade, to meet code and operate safely. National Solar handles the panel evaluation, wiring, permitting, and inspection so your charger installation is turnkey and fully compliant.

Question 51

Where can an EV charger be installed at my home?

Accepted Answer

EV chargers are compact and flexible. They're commonly mounted in garages, on exterior walls near a driveway, or on a freestanding pedestal close to the home. During your assessment we identify the best location based on where you park, your electrical panel location, and the most efficient wiring path.

Question 52

How much land do I need for a ground mount solar system?

Accepted Answer

As a rule of thumb, a 10kW ground mount system needs roughly 600 square feet of usable, sun-exposed land. The exact footprint depends on your energy goals, panel layout, and terrain. During your free on-site assessment, we measure your property and confirm the precise space required for your target production.

Question 53

Do ground mount systems cost more than roof installations?

Accepted Answer

Ground mounts carry slightly higher up-front costs because of the additional racking, foundations, and trenching involved. However, they're often positioned at the ideal tilt and orientation, so they can produce more energy than a comparable roof system, which helps offset the difference over the life of the array.

Question 54

What incentives are ground mount solar systems eligible for?

Accepted Answer

Ground mount systems qualify for the same Oregon incentives as roof-mounted systems — Energy Trust of Oregon cash incentives (for PGE and Pacific Power customers), net metering, and the state property-tax exemption where available. Note that the 30% federal residential tax credit is no longer available for systems placed in service after December 31, 2025. Incentive amounts vary by utility and income and are not guaranteed.

Question 55

Will a ground mount system affect my property value?

Accepted Answer

Solar installations generally increase property value, and ground mounts add the benefit of preserving your roof entirely, no penetrations and no concerns about roof age. In Oregon, the added home value from a solar system is also exempt from property tax.

Question 56

Can ground mount systems withstand Oregon's severe weather?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Our ground mount systems are engineered for the wind loads, snow loads, and weather conditions common across Oregon. Each array is structurally designed and permitted for the specific conditions at your site.

Question 57

How do you handle utility connections for a ground mount system?

Accepted Answer

We manage the entire process, including permitting, structural engineering, trenching, and utility interconnection paperwork, so your ground mount system integrates seamlessly with your existing electrical service. You don't coordinate any of it yourself.

Question 58

Should I install a ground mount system myself?

Accepted Answer

We strongly recommend professional installation. Ground mount systems require electrical expertise, structural engineering, foundation work, and proper permitting to ensure safety, code compliance, and optimal performance. National Solar handles all of it and backs the work with a 10-year workmanship warranty.

Question 59

How long does a ground mount solar installation take?

Accepted Answer

Most residential ground mount installations are completed within 2 to 3 days once groundwork and foundation preparation are done. The full timeline from assessment to energized system is typically a few weeks, including design, permitting, and utility approval, which we manage end to end.

Question 60

Is ground mount solar a good option if my roof isn't ideal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it's often the best option. If your roof is shaded, aging, oddly oriented, or structurally limited, a ground mount array lets you go solar without touching the roof at all. With open, sun-exposed land, you typically get better production and far easier long-term maintenance.

Question 61

Can I finance my roof and solar installation together?

Accepted Answer

Yes. National Solar offers convenient financing that lets you bundle roof repairs or a full replacement together with your solar system into one manageable monthly payment. For Central Oregon homeowners, this often means coordinating a Greenlee Roofing project and your National Solar install under a single financing solution.

Question 62

Will solar panels damage my roof or void my warranty?

Accepted Answer

No. Solar panels installed professionally by National Solar will not damage your roof. Every penetration is properly flashed and sealed, and a correctly installed array often extends your roof's life by shielding it from UV rays and weather. We back our work with a 10-year workmanship warranty.

Question 63

Should I replace my roof before installing solar panels?

Accepted Answer

If your roof has less than about 10 years of life remaining, it's usually most cost-effective to replace it before going solar, so you only pay to mount panels once. If your roof is newer or in good condition, you can typically go solar right away. We give you transparent, unbiased guidance during a free inspection.

Question 64

What if I'm unsure about my roof's condition?

Accepted Answer

Schedule a free roof and solar inspection. We evaluate your roof's structural integrity, materials, and remaining lifespan, then give you clear, unbiased guidance on whether it needs repairs, a replacement, or is ready for solar immediately, no pressure either way.

Questions Oregon homeowners ask most

How solar works in Oregon

The case for going solar now

Rebates, net metering & tax programs

Pricing, loans & payment options

Home battery backup in Oregon

Home EV charger installation

Ground mount solar systems

Solar and your roof

Solar system service in Oregon

Solar for Oregon home builders

Commercial solar in Oregon

Solar lease vs. purchase

Panels, inverters & batteries

Pacific Power Wattsmart Battery program

Talk to a local expert — no pressure

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