The Best Home Solar in Bend, OR

Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Bend, Oregon. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.

#1

Sunlight Solar Energy

4.8
(200 reviews)
Verified

A leading regional solar installer with a strong, long-standing presence in Central Oregon. They are known for comprehensive system design, high-quality equipment, and expert installation of both grid-tied and off-grid systems. They are a certified B-Corp, emphasizing ethical and sustainable business practices.

211 NE Revere Ave, Bend, OR 97701

Specialties & Features

Residential solar panel installation
Battery storage system installation
Off-grid solar solutions

Business Information

Years in Business:18 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Element Energy

4.9
(150 reviews)
Verified

A highly-rated local Bend company focused on personalized service and cutting-edge technology. They excel in custom system design and integration, particularly with battery storage like the Tesla Powerwall. Their team is known for deep expertise in the local climate and utility policies.

1235 NE 3rd St, Suite 100, Bend, OR 97701

Specialties & Features

Solar energy system design and consultation
Battery storage system installation
Energy efficiency assessments

Business Information

Years in Business:10 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Purelight Power

4.7
(300 reviews)
Verified

A prominent regional provider based in Medford that serves the entire state, including Bend, with a significant local team and operations. They have gained a strong reputation for their straightforward, customer-focused approach and accessible financing and leasing options, making solar more attainable for a wider audience.

(Main office in Medford, but serves Bend with a local crew. A Bend-specific office address is not publicly listed, but they are a major player in the market.)

Specialties & Features

Solar financing and leasing options
Residential solar panel installation
Grid-tied solar solutions

Business Information

Years in Business:5 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top Home Solar Contractors in Bend

The home solar market in Bend, Oregon, is robust and highly competitive, driven by the city's eco-conscious population and an average of 300 days of sunshine per year. The quality of providers is generally high, with several established local and regional companies competing on service, technology, and price. Competition is fierce, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and strong customer service. Typical pricing for a residential system in Bend is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before the 30% federal tax credit. This translates to a gross cost of approximately **$20,000 to $35,000** for a typical 7-10 kW system. The market is characterized by strong expertise in both grid-tied systems (through a net metering program with Pacific Power) and sophisticated off-grid solutions for more remote properties in Central Oregon. Most top-tier companies are well-versed in local incentives and financing.

High Ratings

4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews

Fully Licensed

All contractors are properly licensed and insured

Proven Experience

10+ years average experience in the industry

Local Experts

Familiar with Bend regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Solar in Bend

Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Bend, Oregon.

1How does Bend's climate, with snowy winters and high-desert sun, affect solar panel performance and installation?

Bend's high-desert climate is excellent for solar, with over 250 sunny days per year providing strong production, especially in spring and summer. Winter snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to help snow slide off, and the cold temperatures actually improve panel efficiency. Installers in Bend use racking and mounting systems designed for our freeze-thaw cycles and heavy snow loads to ensure durability.

2What is the average cost of a home solar system in Bend, and what local incentives are available?

For a typical 6-8 kW system in Bend, gross costs often range from $18,000 to $28,000 before incentives. Crucially, Oregon homeowners benefit from the state's unique Residential Energy Tax Credit, which can provide a credit of up to $6,000, and the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) of 30%. Additionally, Pacific Power (Bend's primary utility) offers net metering, allowing you to earn credits for excess energy sent to the grid.

3When is the best time of year to install solar panels in Bend?

The ideal time to schedule installation is in late winter or early spring (February-April). This timing allows the system to be installed and inspected before the peak sun production season begins, maximizing your first-year savings. Scheduling during this off-peak period can also lead to faster installation times, as local installers are often busiest during the summer and early fall.

4Are there any specific local permits or regulations for solar in Bend I should know about?

Yes, all solar installations in Bend require an electrical permit and a building permit from the City of Bend's Community Development Department. The process is standardized, and a reputable local installer will handle all permitting. Key local considerations include adherence to strict wind and snow load codes for the High Desert and potential design review if your home is within a historic district.

5How do I choose a reputable solar provider in Central Oregon?

Prioritize providers with extensive local experience in Bend's specific climate and building codes. Verify they are licensed (Oregon CCB), bonded, and insured. Ask for references from local installations and check their standing with the Oregon Construction Contractors Board. A trustworthy provider will conduct a detailed site assessment, explain how Pacific Power's net metering works, and provide a clear production estimate for your home's specific orientation and shading.