Maybe you have wondered if solar—or solar plus battery storage—could be a good addition to your home. To help you get started, here are seven questions to consider and help you shop smart:
- Is my roof ok for solar?
Solar works best on roofs in good condition that get plenty of sun with slopes facing east, south or west.
- Should I make energy upgrades before adding solar?
Improving the energy efficiency of your home can decrease the size of solar system needed, which means lower system costs. So consider if your house could first use energy-saving upgrades like insulation or new windows. Energy Trust of Oregon offers cash incentives for home energy upgrades.
- Why should I add battery storage to solar?
Don’t be left in the dark! When you pair battery storage with your solar panels, you’ll make your home more energy resilient with backup power. During power outages, solar + storage can keep your lights, fridge and other essentials running.
- What should I look for in a solar installer?
Play it safe and choose an Energy Trust solar trade ally. They are vetted contractors who commit to installation best practices focused on system performance and longevity. Only systems installed by Energy Trust trade allies qualify for Energy Trust cash incentives. You can request a free analysis and bid through our website. Energy Trust will match you with qualified solar trade allies in your area.
- Is the solar company that came to my door a reliable option?
Buyer beware! Unfortunately, the solar market has attracted some aggressive sales companies that mislead homeowners into signing expensive contracts. Watch out for things like pushy door-to-door salespeople, pressure to quickly sign a contract, or misleading ads that say you can get “free solar” or claim the government or your utility will pay for your system. Learn more about solar scams that overpromise and underdeliver.
- How much does solar cost, and can I get incentives to help?
The cost of solar will vary depending on the size of your system and other factors, but these days it’s more affordable than you might think. Solar panel costs have dropped over the last decade. Energy Trust cash incentives and a current 30% federal tax credit can help reduce your costs even more for solar and battery storage.* And Energy Trust offers increased cash incentives for households that meet low-to-moderate income guidelines.
- Where can I get more information about going solar?
To help you shop smart, Energy Trust is offering a new solar consumer guide for homeowners, including important do’s and don’ts to help you avoid solar scams.
*Before moving forward with any project, it’s important to review the eligibility requirements for both federal tax credits and Energy Trust incentives. Energy Trust does not give tax advice. Consult your tax professional for current information on credits available and how to apply.