Solar Panel Cost Guide in Portland, NY (Feb 2023)
- Portland Solar Installation Cost: $9,582
- 25-Year Savings: $6,625
- Payback Period: 14.8 Years
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Updated January 20, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Portland
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Portland.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Portland generally cost about $3. To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Portland, most homeowners require a 4.6-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $9,582, or $7,091 after the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The actual cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with. Despite the large upfront cost, the average Portland homeowner can save around $13,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To receive a free estimate from a top solar installation company in Portland, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Portland
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,933 |
| 3 years | $-7,637 |
| 5 years | $-6,340 |
| 7 years | $-5,044 |
| 9 years | $-3,747 |
| 11 years | $-2,451 |
| 13 years | $-1,154 |
| 15 years | $143 |
| 17 years | $1,439 |
| 19 years | $2,736 |
| 21 years | $4,032 |
| 23 years | $5,329 |
| 25 years | $6,625 |
Top Solar Installers in Portland
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it involves extra labor and know-how. That's one of the reasons most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. Plus, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar energy, going with a solar installer can help with that as well. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on installation and sometimes even information on local incentives, rebates and net metering programs.
Working with a professional solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Portland
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Portland
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in Portland: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power generation need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,950. The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your electric bills. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Portland average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Portland provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it's important to include that in your estimate as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar system can influence your pricing. Portland's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Portland have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.07 | $12,886 | $8,083 | 15.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $11,107 | 15.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $14,297 | 14.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $17,652 | 14.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $21,172 | 14.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $24,857 | 13.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $28,708 | 13.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $32,724 | 13.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the company you choose significantly influences your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you choose.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Portland, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Portland?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $14,750 for a 5-kW system and $29,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is going solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for a majority of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your power bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
How long do solar panels last in Portland?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level of energy production.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.