Discover the Power of Solar Energy in Oregon!
Welcome to Oregon, a state renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, environmental stewardship, and a strong commitment to renewable energy. With its diverse climate ranging from the rainy Pacific Coast to the sunny high desert, Oregon offers a unique opportunity for solar power generation across its varied regions. The state?s progressive energy policies, generous incentives, and community support for green initiatives make solar energy an increasingly attractive option for Oregonians. Homeowners and businesses are turning to solar to power their homes and operations, reducing energy costs and contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable environment. Learn how embracing solar power can light up your life, lower your carbon footprint, and help Oregon maintain its leadership in environmental conservation. Join us in harnessing the renewable power of the sun and stepping into a brighter, greener future in the Beaver State.
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Oregon State Solar Incentives
Oregon Solar and Wind Easements/Rights Laws & Local Option Solar Rights Law
Oregon law ensures access to solar and wind resources, protecting the use and installation of solar energy systems on properties since 1979.
Building Energy Code
This summary covers Oregon's building energy codes, drawn from the DOE & BCAP. It discusses updates, requirements, and mandatory provisions for residential and commercial construction.
Portland General Electric - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program
Portland General Electric offers rebates for residential energy efficiency improvements. Contact for more info.
Custom Renewable Energy Projects
Energy Trust offers development assistance and funding for renewable energy projects, covering 50% of consultant costs and a share of construction costs. Incentives depend on project size and utility.
Ashland Electric - Net Metering
Ashland's net metering program allows monthly rollover of excess energy generated, with payout at wholesale rate after March 31.
Portland - Solar Access Developer Guidelines
Portland's 2002 guidelines encourage varying lot widths to maximize solar access and minimize shade in single-dwelling developments.
Ashland Electric Utility - Photovoltaic Rebate Program
The City of Ashland offers rebates for residential and commercial customers installing solar power systems, with new incentives beginning January 2023.
Renewable Energy Contractor Licensing
Oregon mandates trade licenses for installing solar energy equipment and contractor licenses for construction companies, with specific regulations for electrical and plumbing installations.
City of Eugene - Solar Standards
Eugene's Solar Standards aim to promote solar energy use and minimize shading by enforcing lot divisions and building configurations in R-1 and R-2 zones.
City of Ashland - Solar Rights Ordinance
Ashland promotes solar energy use through solar access protection ordinances and Solar Orientation Standards for residential land divisions.
City of Portland - Green Building Policy and LEED Certification
Portland's Green Building Policy mandates all new city construction and renovations meet LEED Gold standards and includes measures like energy savings, renewable systems, water conservation, and parking regulations.
Lane Electric - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program
Lane Electric Cooperative offers rebate programs for efficiency measures such as heat pumps, water heaters, and weatherization.
Solar Planning Program
Energy Trust of Oregon provides cash incentives and technical support for affordable solar power integration in building designs.
Making Solar Equitable Program
Energy Trust of Oregon offers increased solar incentives for eligible nonprofits, tribes, and affordable housing projects, with amounts based on system size and location.
Emerald PUC Electric Vehicle Charger Rebate Program
Emerald People’s Utility District promotes clean energy with an Electric Car Charger Rebate for customers using Level 2 chargers at home.
Oregon Community Solar Program
Oregon's Community Solar Program, governed by the Public Utility Commission, supports local solar projects with a focus on low-income residential benefits.
OTEC - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program
Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative offers rebates for energy-efficient upgrades to commercial customers. Contact your local OTEC office for details.
Energy Storage Procurement Target
Oregon's H.B. 2193 (2015) directs major utilities to procure energy storage systems capable of storing 5 MWh of electricity by 2020.
PGE Renewable Development Fund
PGE's Renewable Development Fund supports local renewable power projects under 10 MW, with priority given to public/non-profit entities and environmental justice communities.
Pacific Power - Blue Sky Community Project Funds
Pacific Power's Blue Sky program funds community-based renewable energy projects. Applications for 2024 funding open December 1, 2023.
EWEB - Net Metering
EWEB offers net metering for renewable energy systems of 25 kW or less, compensating excess generation at $0.0693/kWh monthly.
Large Electric Consumer Public Purpose Program (LECPPP)
Oregon's SB 1149 enables large electricity consumers to support renewable energy and conservation projects through a 3% public purpose charge.
SB 1149 Schools Program
Oregon's SB 1149 law mandates large utilities to collect a public purpose charge for energy efficiency programs in public K-12 schools, administered by the Oregon DOE.
Local Option - Rural Renewable Energy Development Zones
Oregon's Rural Renewable Energy Development Zones offer 3-5 year tax exemptions for eligible renewable energy projects. Businesses must apply before construction begins.
Columbia River PUD - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs
Columbia River PUD offers rebates for energy-efficient appliances & homes, along with free home energy use analysis by experts.
Springfield Utility Board - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program
Springfield Utility Board offers rebates for energy-efficient appliances and installations. Applications must be submitted pre-purchase/installation.
Tillamook County PUD - Residential Energy Efficiency Loan Program
Tillamook PUD offers 0% interest loans up to $2,000 for energy-efficient appliances, available at select locations for one year.
Monmouth Power & Light - Residential Energy Efficiency Program
Monmouth Power & Light offers energy efficiency rebates for appliances, HVAC, lighting, insulation, and more to residential customers.
Model Ordinance for Renewable Energy Projects
The Oregon Department of Energy's model ordinance offers guidance to local governments on siting rules for renewable energy projects, including wind, solar, and biomass.
McMinnville Water & Light - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs
McMinnville Water & Light offers rebates for energy efficient improvements in commercial and industrial facilities and provides energy loans to various entities.
McMinnville Water & Light - Conservation Service Loan Program
McMinnville Water & Light provides financing for energy efficient improvements to homes and facilities, ranging from $1,000 to $15,000.
Wind Incentive Program
Energy Trust discontinues incentives for small-scale wind projects; now only supports community-scale installations in Oregon.
Mandatory Utility Green Power Option
Oregon's utility laws require electric providers to offer renewable energy options, including special rates for specific resources if there's sufficient demand.
Green Energy Technology in Public Buildings
Oregon law mandates public agencies to allocate 1.5% of total contract price for new constructions or major renovations to green energy technologies.
Idaho Power - Easy Upgrades for Simple Retrofits Rebate Program
Idaho Power offers incentives for commercial and industrial customers in Idaho and Oregon to upgrade to more energy-efficient equipment, with rebates available.
EWEB - New Facilities Energy Efficiency Rebate Program
EWEB offers incentives for custom projects and rebates for new construction, along with low-interest loans for energy projects. Contact for details.
Renewable Portfolio Standard
Oregon's Renewable Energy Act mandates a renewable portfolio standard with target of 50% renewable energy by 2040, varying by utility size. It includes solar, wind, hydropower and biomass.
EWEB - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebates Program
EWEB provides energy efficiency rebates for existing facilities, including specific equipment and comprehensive improvements. An EWEB representative assesses potential improvements.
EWEB - Solar Electric Program (Rebate)
EWEB's Solar Electric Program offers financial incentives for solar-powered electricity. The 2023 budget is fully allocated; new applications will open in 2024.
Home Energy Solutions for Existing Homes
Energy Trust of Oregon provides incentives for energy efficiency improvements in homes, with additional benefits for income-qualified households.
Central Electric Cooperative - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs
CEC offers financial incentives for energy efficiency measures among residential members. Rebates available for various home and agricultural improvements.
OTEC - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program
OTEC offers rebate programs for energy-efficient equipment to help residential members reduce electric consumption.
Tillamook County PUD - Dairy Lighting Retrofit Rebate Program
Tillamook PUD offers a Dairy Lighting Retrofit Program for commercial and industrial members, providing energy savings and rebates.
Tillamook County PUD - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program
Tillamook County PUD offers rebates on energy-efficient home improvements and zero-interest financing on ENERGY STAR appliances.
Springfield Utility Board - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program
Springfield Utility Board offers rebates for equipment upgrades in new constructions and retrofits, including lighting, HVAC, and more.
Springfield Utility Board - Residential Energy Efficiency Loan Program
Springfield Utility Board offers 0% loans up to $7,000 for energy-efficient home upgrades, with rebates available for those not taking loans. Eligibility criteria apply.
EWEB - Residential Energy Efficiency Loan Programs
EWEB provides zero-interest loans to residential customers for energy efficiency improvements such as heat pumps, window replacements, and insulation enhancements.
Oregon Appliance and Equipment Energy Efficiency Standards
Oregon has set minimum energy efficiency standards for 11 appliances, phasing out certain lighting by 2025. Products not currently covered by federal standards are also regulated.
Midstate Electric Cooperative - Commercial and Industrial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program
Midstate Electric Cooperative offers financial incentives for commercial and industrial energy efficiency improvements, including HVAC and lighting upgrades.
Midstate Electric Cooperative - Residential Conservation Rebates
Midstate Electric Cooperative offers rebates for energy efficient home improvements and free energy audits to residential and commercial customers.
Emerald PUD - Residential Energy Efficiency Loan Programs
EPUD partners with Pacific Cascade Credit Union to offer a 0% interest loan program for home energy efficiency upgrades. The program facilitates energy conservation and cost savings.
State Home Oil Weatherization (SHOW) Program
The SHOW Program offers cash payments for homeowners and contractors installing energy-efficient heating and home weatherization. Amounts vary based on income and specific improvements.
Ashland Electric Utility - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs
Ashland Conservation District's Energy Efficiency program offers residential rebates for energy-saving renovations, high-efficiency appliances, and on-site energy reviews.
Solar Electric Incentive Program
Energy Trust of Oregon offers solar electric incentives to Pacific Power and PGE customers who install new PV systems in different types of properties. Incentives and conditions vary.
Interconnection Standards
Oregon has varying interconnection standards for net-metered systems, small generator facilities, and large generator facilities, with separate requirements for different utilities.
Energy Trust of Oregon
Oregon's electric utilities allocate 56.7% of public-purpose charges to energy efficiency, 17.1% to renewables. Energy Trust of Oregon administers these funds, supporting renewable projects and energy conservation efforts.
Fuel Mix and Emissions Disclosure
Oregon's 1999 law mandates electricity companies to disclose their fuel mix and emissions data, promoting transparency and informing consumer choice.
Small-Scale Energy Loan Program
The Oregon Small-Scale Energy Loan Program (SELP), providing low-interest loans for energy projects, is insolvent and not accepting new applications.
Net Metering
Oregon law mandates all utilities to offer net metering. Eligible systems can generate power from various renewable sources. Net excess generation is carried over as credit.
Oregon Solar and Wind Easements/Rights Laws & Local Option Solar Rights Law
Oregon's laws protect access to solar and wind resources and the use of solar energy systems, making provisions prohibiting solar systems void and unenforceable.
Renewable Energy Systems Exemption
Oregon's law offers tax benefits to property owners investing in renewable energy systems, promoting energy sustainability and independence without increasing property taxes.
Federal Solar Incentives
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants
REAP, administered by USDA, provides financial aid to small rural businesses and agricultural producers for sustainable energy projects. Grants cover 25% of the project cost, up to $25 million.
Interconnection Standards for Small Generators
New FERC order mandates small generators under 20 MW to maintain operation during abnormal frequency and voltage events, enhancing interconnection efficiency.
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Loan Guarantees
The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) supports agricultural producers and rural businesses in the US by providing financial aid for renewable energy projects and energy efficiency improvements.
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs)
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs) were used by public entities to fund renewable energy projects. They were repealed in 2017.
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs)
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs) financed energy projects by local governments. Discontinued in 2018, they offered tax credits as interest to bondholders.
Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs - Funding Opportunities
The DOE's Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs aids tribes in attaining energy self-sufficiency and economic growth through renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies.
Fannie Mae Green Financing – Loan Program
Fannie Mae's Green Financing offers loans for multifamily properties aiming for energy and water efficiency improvements. Eligible properties can access favorable rates and additional loan proceeds.
Energy-Efficient Mortgages
Energy efficient mortgages (EEM) allow homeowners to finance energy-saving renovations or purchase new energy-efficient homes. These loans, insured by the U.S. government, aim to promote energy efficiency.
Green Power Purchasing Goal for Federal Government
The Energy Policy Act of 2005 set a goal for federal buildings to use 7.5% renewable energy by 2013. This target was increased to 30% by 2025 but later rescinded in 2018.
USDA - High Energy Cost Grant Program
USDA's grant program, enhancing energy generation in rural areas, concluded its latest application period on July 6, 2021. Updates can be found on the program website.
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Personal)
US law exempts energy conservation subsidies provided by utilities from taxation but requires adjustments for federal tax credits. IRS guidance on solar rebates is unclear.
Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit
H.R. 5376 extends tax credit for energy storage systems and excludes biomass heaters, with credit amounts varying by technology type and installation date.
U.S. Department of Energy - Loan Guarantee Program
The Inflation Reduction Act has allocated $11.7 billion to the LPO for new loans, boosting loan authority by $100 billion, and setting up the Energy Infrastructure Reinvestment Program.
Business Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 updates the federal Business Energy Investment Tax Credit, introducing new eligibility criteria, bonus credits, and transitions the tax credit to a new section.
Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC)
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 introduces changes to the federal renewable electricity production tax credit, introducing new bonus credits and eligibility criteria.
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Corporate)
U.S. energy conservation subsidies provided by public utilities are tax-exempt, but this does not extend to certain electricity-generating systems. Tax credits can't be claimed for unsubsidized expenses.
Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS)
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 allows 100% depreciation for qualified assets, impacting renewable energy technologies. MACRS classifies these technologies for depreciation purposes.
Energy and Emissions Goals and Standards for Federal Government
President Biden's Executive Order 14057 sets ambitious sustainability goals for the US, including 100% carbon-free electricity by 2030 and a fully zero-emission federal fleet by 2035.
