Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in The Dalles, Oregon. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer based in Hood River, serving the entire Columbia River Gorge, including The Dalles. They are known for their comprehensive service from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance. They are well-versed in local incentives and offer a wide range of financing options.
A reputable, employee-owned company with a strong presence in the Pacific Northwest. While headquartered in Portland, they have extensive experience with projects in The Dalles and the Columbia Gorge. They emphasize custom system design and high-quality components, offering both grid-tied and off-grid solutions.
A well-established local contractor that provides a full suite of electrical and solar services. Their dual expertise in electrical work and solar installation is a significant advantage for ensuring code-compliant and efficient system integration. They offer maintenance, repair, and cleaning services for existing systems.
The home solar market in The Dalles, Oregon, is moderately competitive, primarily served by a mix of a few local specialists and highly-regarded regional companies from nearby Hood River and Portland. The city's high number of sunny days relative to the rest of Western Oregon makes it an excellent location for solar energy production. The market is characterized by providers who are knowledgeable about specific local conditions, such as potential snow loads and wind patterns in the Gorge. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from $2.50 to $3.50 per watt before incentives. Homeowners have access to the 30% federal investment tax credit (ITC) and Oregon-specific programs, which reputable installers in the area are proficient at navigating. Overall, the quality of service is high, with a focus on durable systems built to withstand the local climate.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with The Dalles regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in The Dalles, Oregon.
The Dalles' abundant sunshine is excellent for solar production, often yielding more energy than cloudier parts of Oregon. However, the high desert climate brings summer temperatures that can temporarily reduce panel efficiency, though this is offset by the long, sunny days. Winters are milder than in much of the state, but shorter days and occasional snow (which should slide off tilted panels) will naturally reduce seasonal output, making accurate system sizing crucial.
A typical residential system in The Dalles costs between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, Oregon homeowners benefit from a state tax credit (up to $6,000) in addition to the 30% federal tax credit, significantly lowering the net cost. Local utilities like Northern Wasco County PUD offer net metering, and financing options include cash, loans, and third-party leases or PPAs, each with different implications for incentive eligibility.
Yes, installation requires a building permit from the City of The Dalles or Wasco County, and your provider will typically manage this process. The key local step is applying for interconnection with Northern Wasco County PUD, which has specific requirements for system safety and approval. Oregon's statewide building codes (based on the latest NEC) and a straightforward net metering policy govern the process, but working with a local installer familiar with these protocols is essential.
Prioritize providers with proven local experience in Wasco County, as they understand specific permitting, utility rules, and optimal designs for our climate. Verify they are licensed (Oregon CCB), insured, and offer strong warranties. Ask for local references and compare multiple detailed quotes that include equipment specs, production estimates for The Dalles, and a clear breakdown of all costs and savings projections.
Modern solar panels are rigorously tested to withstand high winds common in the Columbia River Gorge. Regular maintenance is minimal; occasional rinsing to remove dust and checking for debris is usually sufficient. The primary seasonal task is monitoring for snow accumulation, which typically melts and slides off quickly due to panel tilt and surface texture, rarely requiring manual clearing.