Learning Center
Frequently Asked Questions
We know that transitioning to renewable energy comes with plenty of questions, and finding honest, straightforward answers shouldn’t be a challenge. We’ve consolidated the most common questions our Central Oregon neighbors ask about solar installations, battery storage, net metering, and financial incentives. Explore our FAQs below to get the clear facts you need to make the right decision for your home or business, and feel free to reach out with any other questions you might have.
General Questions
What services do you offer?
Sunlight Solar offers residential and commercial solar installation, battery storage, EV charger installation, solar financing, and ongoing system maintenance and service. We handle every stage of a project ourselves, including system design, permitting, installation, inspection, and utility interconnection.
What areas do you work in?
Sunlight Solar serves Central Oregon and the surrounding communities, including Bend, Culver, La Pine, Redmond, Madras, Prineville, Sisters, Sunriver, Terrebonne, Tumalo, and Warm Springs.
Where can I view examples of your work?
Visit our portfolio to browse completed residential and commercial installations across Central Oregon.
Is solar right for my home or business?
There are a number of factors we consider when evaluating your property for a solar electrical system. For residential homes, these factors include shading, roof pitch, orientation, material, age, and structural integrity, as well as what utility company you use and any HOA or Historical District regulations that may apply to your home.Â
When considering solar for your business, factors we keep in mind include electrical demand, physical attributes of the property like roof and land surface area, pitch, and orientation, and future prospects of your commercial investments.
For more details on the factors we consider, read more in our Learning Center.
Does solar work in rainy states like Oregon?
Yes! Our long sunny summer days make up for our rainy winters. Even on a cloudy day, your system absorbs ambient reflected sunlight to produce energy.
Do you work with schools and other public spaces?
Yes. Sunlight Solar works with schools, municipalities, and public facilities to bring solar to the spaces that serve the community. Public projects carry real benefits, including lower long-term energy costs, a visible commitment to clean energy, and an educational opportunity for the people who use the building every day.
Do you work with new construction homes?
Yes, and new construction is one of the smartest times to install solar. Designing the system alongside the build means cleaner wiring, better panel placement, and fewer surprises than a retrofit. If you're building a home in Central Oregon, we can work with your builder to plan solar into the project from the start.
How long does a site assessment take?
Residential site assessments typically take around an hour. Our system designers are happy to answer any questions you have during the site assessment.
Do I need to prepare any materials before my free quote or site assessment?
Our system designers like to look at your electricity bill and any site plans you may have during the site assessment. We will also need attic or crawlspace access in order to build our structural design plans.
How can I be sure Sunlight Solar is trustworthy?
Sunlight Solar is an Energy Trust of Oregon Trade Ally, NABCEP certified, and a certified Tesla Powerwall installer. Our work has earned Best of Central Oregon recognition from The Source Weekly and Energy Installer of the Year from Energy Trust of Oregon. We also partner with Central Oregon Habitat for Humanity, Rooted Homes, and Thistle and Nest to bring solar to affordable housing across the region. These credentials and partnerships reflect our commitment to honest work, professional standards, and the Central Oregon community.
I’m not quite ready to commit. How can I stay in touch with Sunlight Solar?
No problem! We’ll be here when you’re ready. In the meantime, feel free to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn, or sign up for our email newsletter to stay updated with the latest solar news.
Cost & Financing Questions
How much does it cost to install solar panels on a home in Central Oregon?
Cost depends on your system size, your energy usage, your roof, and which incentives you qualify for. Because we size every system to your actual usage, we start with your power bill and give you a free quote with real numbers before you decide.
Are there any incentives that lower the cost of solar?
Yes. Oregon offers several programs that can lower your upfront cost, including state rebates, property tax exemptions, utility incentives, and net metering. As an Energy Trust of Oregon Trade Ally, we help eligible customers access the incentives that apply to them. These programs can stack, which is why two homes of similar size can land at very different net costs.
Can I finance my solar system?
Yes. Sunlight Solar can talk you through solar financing options that fit your situation, including how Oregon incentives and financing can work together to bring down your upfront cost. We explain the math in plain language so the path forward is clear before you commit.
Will I save money on my utility bills?
Every month, your utility company will record how much energy you use and subtract how much your solar system generates. At the end of the month, you’ll pay the net difference. You can build up credits in the summer when you’re producing more than you use, and use those credits in the winter. Any leftover credits will go away after March 31st. This process is called net metering.
How can I request a free quote or site assessment?
You can request a free solar quote by filling out our contact form or by calling us at 541-322-1910. To prepare your quote, it helps to have a recent power bill handy. Your usage tells us how to size the right system, so your quote reflects what you actually need. There's no cost and no obligation.
Technical Questions
How does the installation process work?
Our process starts with your power bill. Looking at how much energy you use tells us how to size your system correctly. Our team then handles system design, permitting, and scheduling. We install the system, manage the inspection, and complete your utility interconnection so the system is fully connected and producing. Because we handle installation and service ourselves, there's no handoff to a subcontractor and no confusion about who to call later.
How long does a residential solar installation take?
Most residential solar systems are installed in a few days on-site once permits and approvals are in place. The full timeline depends on permitting and utility scheduling in your area, and we'll give you a realistic estimate with your quote.
Can one system power my home and car?
Yes. We build systems that cover the energy load of your home and electric vehicle. Whether you are a homeowner wanting to supercharge your electric vehicle (EV) experience, or a business owner wanting to be the electric oasis on your block, Sunlight Solar Energy can equip you with the best EV chargers in the industry.
Can I add a battery to an existing system?
Yes. You don't need to start over to get backup power. If you already own solar panels, we can add a battery to most existing systems, and we'll check your setup to confirm what's possible. The right size depends on how much energy you use and how much of your home you want to keep running when the power is down, and we help you weigh that against your budget so you land on a system that fits.
I need to troubleshoot an issue. Where do I begin?
fill out our form to request service or call us at 541-322-1910 and our team will schedule a visit.
Will my system work during a power outage?
Only if it includes battery storage. A standard grid-tied system shuts off during an outage for safety. Adding a battery keeps essential circuits running, and we can size storage to match your household's needs.