Installing solar is still a smart move in 2026, but it pays to check our consumer tips before moving forward.

Energy Trust of Oregon has previously warned consumers about solar scams and high-pressure door-to-door sales. What’s new this year? Now that federal tax credits for home solar have disappeared, and solar leases and power purchase agreements are on the rise, those same tactics are sometimes used to lure homeowners into lease contracts with unfavorable terms.

Energy Trust is offering higher cash incentive amounts for solar this year, and installing solar remains a great investment for your home. By generating your own clean energy, you can significantly cut your annual electricity costs for years to come. Adding battery storage provides essential outage backup and lets you take advantage of utility battery reward programs.

Before signing any contracts for buying or leasing solar, however, you’ll want to be sure of who you’re working with.

Be aware that some solar sales companies are focused on sales, rather than customer needs. These companies may operate in multiple states, expanding to places like Oregon where there is strong demand and incentive offers work to their advantage.

Now, many of these same companies are pressuring homeowners into expensive solar leases or power purchase agreements. While leasing can be a low-cost path to solar benefits, some contracts have price escalator clauses buried in the fine print that can significantly increase your costs over time. Keep in mind that if you have the cash on hand or can access a low-interest loan, installing your own system usually pencils out better in the long run compared with leasing.

Watch out for these tactics
The suspect solar sales companies capitalize on customers’ limited or partial knowledge of incentives and solar electric generation to make it seem like they offer free or low-cost systems. They often run social media ads announcing limited-time free or low-cost solar programs in specific areas, claiming the government, local utilities or organizations like Energy Trust will pay the costs. The ads often say funding is limited, in an attempt to push customers to act quickly.

In addition to using social media, solar sales companies frequently use door-to-door or telephone salespeople with little experience in the industry. They are trained in high-pressure sales techniques and given scripts that have proven successful in other markets or industries.

Salespeople may attempt to build credibility by claiming to work for or with local utilities or organizations like Energy Trust. They use vague language about the costs and benefits of solar energy, focusing on incentives they claim will make installation virtually free.

Shop smart
A great way to start your solar journey is by reviewing our solar consumer guide for homeowners, including these guidelines to avoid solar scams.

Here are some key steps to protect yourself:

• Avoid entering into agreements based solely on door-to-door or telephone sales. Solar energy is a significant home improvement and requires careful consideration.
• Get at least three bids since system designs and costs may vary widely. You can request a free analysis and bid through Energy Trust’s online bid form. You will be paired with Energy Trust solar trade ally contractors in your area who are licensed, bonded and insured and who follow best practices to comply with Energy Trust solar + storage design and installation standards.
• If a salesperson claims to be sent by, work with, or work for a utility, government entity or Energy Trust, call or email that organization to verify their claim. You can verify if a contractor is an Energy Trust trade ally through our Find a Contractor tool.
• If a salesperson claims your system will eliminate all electric bills, verify that with other installers and your utility provider.
• Make sure any claims the salesperson makes — for example, savings, incentives or estimated energy production—are included in your contract.
• If buying, carefully review costs and financing, before signing anything. Some solar sales organizations work with financing companies that charge high interest rates and fees. Ask your contractor for a complete breakout of financing costs and other fees they may roll into the final cost of the system. If the contractor is unable to disclose financing costs, ask them for the cash price without financing. Also consider multiple options if financing is needed.
• If looking at a lease or power purchase agreement, review the contract very carefully before signing. Some leases have annual escalators that may be buried in the fine print. Even a 3% escalator can really add up over the years. Instead, look for low or zero escalators.
• Watch for complicated incentive structures that may look like a good deal but are only discounts on an overpriced system. Having multiple bids can help you compare offers and figure out if you’re getting a good deal.
• Find out if a subcontractor will install your system. It’s important to know who will complete the work and if they have quality or customer service issues.
• Check online reviews for the sales company and any subcontractors. A quick online search will reveal whether a company has a good or bad reputation.
• Verify the Construction Contractors Board (CCB) license number of each contractor who provides a bid. The CCB maintains information on complaints filed against contractors and any resulting fines or suspensions. (All Energy Trust solar trade allies must maintain an active license with the CCB and are listed on the Oregon Business Registry.)

Learn more about how Energy Trust can help go solar with confidence.