You’ve probably already noticed your power bills increasing over the past few years, and if you haven’t, you will soon. Pacific Power and Pacific General Electric (PGE) recently won approval to increase their rates by 14.8%, causing a massive spike in utility prices for Oregonians. The same is true in Medford, where utility price increases are bound to affect thousands of residents throughout the city.
It’s easy to feel stuck with your utility company — you have practically no control over which you use — but you have alternatives. There are plenty of options for solar panels in Medford, and making the switch can help you save thousands of dollars throughout the system’s life.
Do Solar Panels Save You Money?
Yes, solar panels save you money over time. The average lifespan of a solar panel is 25-30 years, while the typical break-even date for solar energy systems is 5-7 years after installation; from then on, you’ll save on your utilities. It takes some time for the most significant savings to kick in, but once they do, you’ll have decades to accumulate savings on your energy bills. You’re effectively locking in a utility rate for life rather than paying more for electricity year after year. The actual amount will depend on your total energy offset, but the average solar system owner will save tens of thousands of dollars over their system’s lifespan.
Medford Solar Incentives and Rebates
A big chunk of savings from solar panels comes from incentives and rebate programs, of which plenty exist. Many of the incentives come from the government, but solar installation companies provide other programs that reduce the upfront and total costs of financing solar panels. There are dozens of incentives available in Medford (and all of Oregon), but these are some of the biggest:
| Incentive | Description |
| Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics | The Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics is available across the US and provides a tax credit for 30% of a solar installation’s total installed price. To receive the credit, homeowners must file Form 5695 with their annual taxes. |
| Solar Within Reach | Solar Within Reach is a rebate program designed to help PGE and Pacific Power customers within designated income brackets install solar panels affordably. The program grants a rebate of up to $5,400 per home for PGE customers and up to $6,000 per home to Pacific Power customers, though applicants must make less than the maximum gross annual income to qualify. Income caps change based on the number of residents inside the home. |
| Net Metering | Net metering allows solar system owners to send the excess energy they generate back to the electric grid, earning them a credit that’s applied to their bill. The value of net metering credits can change with legislation, but they remain a significant cost-saving incentive for homeowners. |
| Renewable Energy Systems Exemption | The Renewable Energy Systems Exemption stops homeowners from paying higher property taxes after installing solar panels (or other renewable energy systems). Solar panels raise property values by around 4% on average, which would result in a significant tax increase without this exemption. |
Other solar incentives are available in Medford, helping businesses and residential buildings save money while going solar. The DSIRE website includes a comprehensive list of available programs, and your solar installer may have additional incentive programs to apply for. For example, Purelight offers $0 down financing options, eliminating the upfront cost of installing solar panels. Click below to see if you qualify.
Cost of Solar Panels in Medford
Incentive programs help you save money on installation, but what does a solar panel system cost? Solar installation prices in Medford vary depending on system size, market conditions, availability, and more, so estimating a system’s cost is difficult before you finalize a design. However, the solar installer you go with will guide you through the process, from permitting to installation. They’ll also help you find solar incentive programs you may qualify for, helping you save additional money on top of the savings from generating energy.
Common Factors Affecting Solar Installation
The uncertainty about solar installation pricing stems from a few key factors. Here are the primary ones to know about and why they matter:
- Installation and Maintenance Costs: Solar installations include the equipment, labor, and associated installation expenses. Additionally, ongoing maintenance costs should be considered to ensure the system operates optimally and maintains its performance over time.
- Regulatory and Permitting Requirements: Compliance with local building codes and zoning regulations and obtaining necessary permits are essential for a successful solar installation. Understanding the regulatory landscape and ensuring adherence to requirements is crucial.
- Grid Connection and Interconnection: If the solar system is grid-connected, the availability and proximity of the electrical grid infrastructure and interconnection requirements will impact the installation process.
- Roof Condition and Structural Suitability: The condition and structural integrity of the roof are important considerations. Solar panels are typically installed on rooftops, requiring a stable and durable surface to support their weight. Assessing the roof’s condition and ensuring it can handle the additional load is crucial.
Medford Solar FAQs
Are solar panels worth it in Oregon?
Solar panels are an excellent investment for homeowners. They generate a stable return on investment and tend to have decades-long lifespans, with most solar panel warranties covering 25 years of operation.
How long does a solar panel installation take?
The length of a solar panel installation in Medford varies based on market factors such as supply shortages and demand. However, many solar installation companies try to limit the total process to a period of 2-3 months, including design, permitting, and the installation itself. The installation itself should take no more than a few days.
Who is the best solar installer in Medford?
Whether you’re basing the title of “best” on installation quality or customer reviews, Purelight Power takes the cake. Purelight emphasizes customer service and installs quality, backing its work with industry-leading warranties and guarantees.
Medford is a leading city for solar panel installations, so there are plenty of installers to choose from in the area. Shop for local installers, checking for local expertise, positive reputations, and workmanship quality. Don’t forget to ask about solar incentives either; solar installers know about virtually all of them, and they benefit both parties, so they’ll be more than willing to share that information.
If you’re still unsure where to start, Purelight can guide you through the process. Our industry-leading quality and workmanship guarantee give you peace of mind in your installation. Our team of solar experts emphasizes communication, so you’ll never feel left in the dark. If you want to know more, contact us today.
