In Oregon, utilities are mandated by law to provide net metering, allowing solar panel owners to earn credits for excess electricity they generate and send back to the grid. These credits can be used to offset the electricity drawn from the utility when the solar panels are not producing enough energy.

A significant benefit of this policy is that solar system owners can accumulate credits during sunny periods and utilize them during times of lower solar output, such as the cloudy winter months in Oregon.

Furthermore, if solar energy system owners generate more electricity than they use in a given month, they won’t incur any kilowatt-hour charges on their electric bill. They will only need to pay the basic utility service fees, which are usually minimal.

It’s important to understand that the specifics and regulations of net metering programs can differ among utility companies in Oregon. For the latest and most detailed information on Oregon’s net metering policies, please visit the Oregon Public Utility Commission’s official website.

Beyond statewide incentives, several Oregon cities also offer local programs to promote solar energy adoption.

In Eugene, the Eugene Water and Electric Board (EWEB) provides a rebate program for eligible customers, offering $0.40 per watt installed, up to $2,000. This incentive is limited by an annual budget and is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit the EWEB website.

Salem Electric offers its customers a $300 per kW installed rebate, with a cap of 50% of project costs or $1,500, whichever is lower. This incentive applies to qualifying solar systems that are net metered, have a capacity of 25kW or less, and adhere to Salem Electric’s Net Metering Policy. More details can be found on the Salem Electric website.

In Ashland, residents are eligible for a $600 rebate when they install home solar systems.