10 Best Solar Companies in Hood River, OR

How To Choose a Solar Company

Going solar can be a great way to reduce electricity costs and help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint using renewable energy. Here are some key factors to consider when determining whether a solar installer is trustworthy.

Check Licensing

It's imperative that your solar installer has the proper licensing. This ensures that the work is done correctly using the most up-to-date installation methods. Solar installers in Oregon must be licensed and bonded according to the terms of the Oregon Construction Contractors Board. For photovoltaic installations, each standard journeyman on the job will have at least 8,000 hours of hands-on experience and must follow continuing education requirements. Installers of solar thermal systems must be either a licensed solar heating installer and a plumbing journeyman.

Read Customer Reviews

Check review sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and TrustPilot to see customer feedback about local solar companies. Detailed reviews can help you assess a company's dependability and customer service. Use caution with companies that have very few reviews or mostly negative ones.

Compare Multiple Quotes

To find a solar company that fits your budget, ask for free, detailed quotes from three to five providers. The quotes should outline all costs and list the solar equipment included. Comparing several quotes helps you identify the best value.

Ask About the Warranty

Quality solar installations should have strong workmanship and performance warranties. A workmanship guarantee addresses any installation defects (such as poor alignment, cracks in the panels, or poor wiring), while a performance guarantee ensures a certain level of energy production. Strong guarantees demonstrate a company's confidence in its work.

Evaluate Financing and Incentives

Solar panels can help reduce your electricity costs long-term. When weighing solar panel's cost and value, be sure to consider these considerations.

• Research federal and state tax credits: A 26% federal tax credit on the full cost of solar systems is available through 2032. Many states also provide incentives. These credits can lead to substantial savings for solar buyers.
• Look into utility rebates: More rebates might be available from utility companies looking to encourage homeowners to go solar. Contact your local utility provider to learn rebate values and eligibility rules, so you can determine your possible savings.
• Compare system purchase options: Solar panels can be purchased outright or financed through leases or loans. Confirm important financing details such as payment schedule, annual percentage rate (APR), fees, and ownership implications when financing your solar system.

Cost of Solar Installation in Hood River

Solar panel costs vary based on your system's capacity and the solar technology used. The typical Hood River solar array has a capacity of 3.9 kilowatts. Homeowners in the area can expect to pay approximately $3,500 per kilowatt; the average Hood River homeowners spends roughly $9,585 on a new solar array after accounting for federal tax breaks. (Some homeowners prefer to lease solar panels to reduce upfront costs.) A personalized quote from a local solar installer will account for factors such as the panel type, capacity, and size of the planned system, and should include costs for preliminary work, permit fees, and labor.