Thinking About Going Solar? Read This First.
If you’ve been thinking about switching to solar, you’re not alone. More and more homeowners across Oregon (especially here in Portland) are looking to lower their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint. And honestly? It’s a smart move.
But here’s the thing: while the benefits of it are real—big savings, cleaner energy, energy independence—there are a few things most people don’t find out until after their panels are already on the roof.
At Green Energy Solar, we’ve helped hundreds of families make the switch, and we’ve heard every question under the sun (pun intended!). So today, we’re sharing 5 things no one tells you about going solar—so you can feel confident and informed before making the leap.
1. Solar Can Increase Your Home Value—But Only If You Own It
Yes, solar can absolutely boost your property value. In fact, studies have shown that homes with it sell faster and for more money. But here’s the catch: it only works in your favor if you own your solar system outright.
If you lease your panels, potential buyers may have to take over the lease—which can scare some people off. But if you buy your system (even if it’s financed), it’s considered a real asset—like a renovated kitchen or new roof.
Quick tip: If selling your home is on the horizon, talk to a green solar panel company about financing options that help you build equity instead of just renting your system.
📖 Related Read: How Solar Adds Value to Your Home in Oregon
2. You’ll Still Get a Power Bill (And That’s Totally Normal)
One of the biggest misconceptions out there is that going solar means no more electric bill. Wouldn’t that be nice? While solar can significantly cut your costs, chances are you’ll still have a small monthly bill from your utility provider.
Here’s why:
Most systems are tied to the grid, so you’re still using a bit of traditional electricity when your panels aren’t producing (like at night or during storms).
Your utility may charge a small fee to stay connected to the grid—usually under $20/month.
But the savings? They’re still awesome. Many of our customers at Green Energy Solar see their monthly bills drop by 50–80% or more, depending on the system and usage.
3. Solar Panels Are Basically Set-It-and-Forget-It
We get this question all the time: "Do I have to clean or maintain my solar panels?"
The good news is—solar panels are incredibly low-maintenance. Seriously. Most homeowners only need to:
Rinse panels off with a hose every few months (if they’re dirty)
Check the monitoring app now and then to track performance
Schedule a professional inspection every few years (just like an HVAC system)
That’s it. Quality it systems—like the ones we install at Green Energy Solar—are built to last 25+ years and are designed to handle rain, snow, and whatever the Oregon weather throws at them.
4. Solar Still Works on Cloudy Days (Yes, Even in Portland!)
We get it—Oregon isn’t exactly known for sunshine. So it’s totally fair to wonder if it is a smart move here. But believe it or not, solar panels still produce energy even when it’s cloudy.
They don’t need direct sunlight—they just need daylight. And guess what?
Places like Germany (which gets less sun than Portland) are global leaders in solar energy.
Net metering allows you to store credits during sunny months to use when the sun takes a break.
So yes—solar energy works great in Portland. You just need the right system, installed by a local expert who understands our climate. (That’s us!)
5. Solar Incentives Are Amazing—But They Won’t Be Around Forever
Right now is actually one of the best times to go solar, thanks to a variety of incentives that help make it more affordable. But here’s the thing: some of these programs are temporary or limited.
What you might qualify for:
Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC) – Covers 30% of your system cost
Oregon Solar + Storage Rebate – Up to $5,000 in savings
Utility rebates – Varies by provider
Net Metering – Get credits for excess energy your panels produce
These programs can take thousands off the cost of your system—but they won’t last forever. Some rebates run out of funds each year, and others may be reduced over time.
At Green Energy Solar, we’ll walk you through every local, state, and federal incentive available—so you don’t leave money on the table.
Why Homeowners Love Green Energy Solar
We’re not just another solar energy company in Portland—we’re your neighbors. And we’re passionate about helping homeowners take control of their energy, save money, and make a real impact on the environment.
Here’s what sets us apart:
✅ We design custom systems for your unique home
✅ We use high-efficiency, best green it panels
✅ We offer honest pricing and zero-pressure consultations
✅ We’re certified and trusted across Oregon
Whether you’re ready to make the switch or just want to learn more, we’re here to help with friendly, expert guidance.
Final Thoughts: Know What You’re Getting Into (In a Good Way)
Going solar is an exciting decision—and it’s a smart one, too. But understanding the real-life experience of having solar panels on your home can help you avoid surprises and set better expectations.
Now that you know what most people don’t—like how solar affects your home value, how the electric bill actually works, and what kind of upkeep is (not) involved—you’re in a great place to take the next step.
🔋 Let’s talk about solar for your home. Whether you’re just browsing or ready to install, our team at Green Energy Solar is here to guide you every step of the way.
📞 Schedule a free consultation or give us a call today.
