Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bend, OR (2024 Update)
- Bend Solar Installation Cost: $9,203
- 25-Year Savings: $15,469
- Payback Period: 10.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Bend
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Bend.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Bend typically cost around 4.The average Bend homeowner needs a 3.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $9,203 with the federal tax credit, or $13,160 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.Many homeowners find installing solar panels is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Bend can save around $24,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Bend
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,994 |
| 3 years | $-5,575 |
| 5 years | $-3,156 |
| 7 years | $-738 |
| 9 years | $1,681 |
| 11 years | $4,100 |
| 13 years | $6,518 |
| 15 years | $8,937 |
| 17 years | $11,355 |
| 19 years | $13,774 |
| 21 years | $16,193 |
| 23 years | $18,611 |
| 25 years | $21,030 |
Top Solar Installers in Bend
Putting up solar panels by yourself can be a dangerous undertaking, which is why hiring a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Since solar panels are exposed to temperature swings and extreme weather, warranties and repairs from your solar installer can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by avoiding potential costs down the line.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
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 Bend
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bend
For many Bend homeowners, the decision to install solar panels depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Bend, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it’s important to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Generally, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Bend homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs.It’s a good idea to include the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it’ll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last major cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of renewable energy solutions in Bend, you’ll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment.The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to access to greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.64 | $15,288 | $20,599 | 10.7 years |
| 8 kW | $3.57 | $19,992 | $27,858 | 10.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.50 | $24,500 | $35,312 | 10.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.43 | $28,812 | $42,962 | 10.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.36 | $32,928 | $50,809 | 9.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.29 | $36,848 | $58,851 | 9.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.22 | $40,572 | $67,090 | 9.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.15 | $44,100 | $75,524 | 9.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a quality company.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
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 Bend, OR Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Bend?
The average cost of solar panels in Bend is about $17,500 for a 5-kW system and $35,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Bend have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future power bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount 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.