Questions for Homeowners:

How much does it cost?

Signing up gets you a free solar site assessment and home energy review. The cost to the homeowner is that of the installation. You can also attend our free workshops or learn individually how you and your family can enjoy the cost-saving benefits of our current discount program – which is 26 percent off list price! Plus our staff and partners will explain Energy Trust incentives, and state of Oregon residential tax credits as well as federal tax credits. We can help you reduce the price of your system by up to 85 percent!

Does solar work in Oregon?

Despite Oregon’s rainy reputation, solar energy is our most abundant renewable resource. Even though they receive less sun than even the rainiest location in Oregon, Germany has more solar energy systems, per capita, than anywhere in the world.

What renewable energy systems do you offer?

Solar electric (PV-photovoltaic) and Solar hot water systems for homes, businesses and for homeowners with pools.

What if I don’t know solar is right for me?

Not a problem! Through free workshops and discussions with LiveLight Energy staff, you will have all the information you need to make the right decision for your home.

How do I schedule a site assessment?

Call 1.888.91.WATTS. or fill out the form

What if my roof is shaded or I don’t have much roof space?

Don’t give up on solar before you’ve considered all your options! Just because your roof is shaded or isn’t south facing (the most ideal orientation) doesn’t mean that solar has to be out of the picture for you. Consider your garage, or how about creating a solar cabana? LiveLIght specializes in unique and attractive designs and installation.  Ask to see our portfolio of home installations from around our state.

How long will the system last?

The warranty on most solar panels is about 25 years. Other components such as the inverter may need maintenance earlier on. However, the lifetime of the system can be between 30-50 years. After 25 years, the output of the system will still be about 80% of original efficiency!

How does LiveLight Energy make solar systems affordable?

This program lowers the sticker price of a complete high quality residential solar system by up to 85 percent with our special pricing package with SolarWorld of Hillsboro (we are 100 percent made in Oregon).  We also help homeowners to take advantage of Energy Trust of Oregon incentives, and state and federal taxes.

Are leased solar or photovoltaic (PV) panels really free?

Well, we don’t think so.  Yes, you can lease instead of buy.  There are many solar leasing companies moving into the Pacific Northwest. Leasing agreements for PV systems should be carefully reviewed before you sign and give your consent for installation.

Good questions to ask include:

• How does my leasing fee compare with payments and my savings on a purchased system?

• Am I going to move?  What happens to my lease?

In many instances, you’re locked into panel leasing payments for a minimum of 15 years.

• What are the real costs?  What are my real savings?

It pays to compare an outright PV purchasing plan to a lease plan.

Here are some reasons to buy your PV system:

A PV system instantly raises your home’s value. If you lease a solar system, you’ve created a debt liability that a potential homebuyer may not want to assume. If you sell your house before the lease expires, you’ll have to pay a hefty penalty if you have to break the lease agreement.

The photovoltaic system you purchase will pay itself off in as little as four to five years and generate money over its 30 to 40 year expected lifetime.

This energy savings in Oregon translates about $300 annually using 2011 utility rate credits. You will this savings detailed on your monthly bill. You receive these credits because you own the system that feeds the electricity you are generating to the electric utility grid.

Generous tax credits and Energy Trust of Oregon incentives reduce the initial cost of a PV system by as much as 85 percent. The lease-holder (not the homeowner) takes this rebate because the leasing company owns the system on your roof.

I want a PV system but I don’t have the upfront cash to pay for the equipment, what can I do?

Sign up now to find out if your home is right for solar.  LiveLight site assessments are free!