Looking for a way to wean yourself from dependence on fossil fuels to meet your electric needs? Then you might want to consider solar power, because going solar in Oregon has never been easier.
But perhaps you think Portland does not get enough sunlight to make a solar system worthwhile. The truth is, Portland gets the same amount of sunshine annually as the average US city. And according to Solar Now, more than 17,000 Oregon households are currently using solar energy to generate electricity or heat water.
Four local organizations are banding together to help Oregon homeowners learn about solar energy and obtain the resources to install a system. Solar Oregon and the Energy Trust of Oregon are working with the City of Portland's Bureau of Planning and Sustainability and the Oregon Department of Energy to offer everything from free workshops to tax credits and cash incentives for installing solar systems. These groups will even help you find a reputable contractor and point you in the direction of affordable financing.
There is still a significant financial outlay for a home solar power system, but current incentives and tax credits can cover up to 70 percent of the cost, according to Solar Now. And future government subsidies may make solar power even more affordable. Last February President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which includes incentives for solar manufacturers and solar water heating.
If you are interested in attending a free workshop on the basics of residential solar, there are two being held in Portland this summer, one this Wednesday, June 24th, at the Blackbird Wine Shop, 7 to 8 p.m., and another on July 16th, at the Ecotrust, 6 to 7 p.m. For more information about these or other solar workshops, call 1-877-546-8769.
The sun has been producing energy for billions of years, powering our planet’s biosystems and rising reliably every day. It’s time to take advantage of this clean, abundant, renewable energy source.
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