How to Find a Solar Installer in Salem, Oregon

Western Oregon on average gets as much solar energy as the rest of the country, according to the Oregon Department of Energy's "Basic Solar Energy" publication. Oregon's capital city, Salem, is situated in Northwest Oregon, 47 miles outside of Portland. Even though solar systems can be an expensive investment, energy-conscious Oregonians are lowering their carbon footprint by investing in solar technologies. When looking for Salem installers for solar water heaters or solar photovoltaic systems, there are a number of factors to consider.

Instructions

- 1
  Learn as much as you can about the type of solar technology to be installed. Find out what type of experiences family members or neighbors have had when installing similar systems.
- 2
  Educate yourself about Oregon's renewable energy contractor licensing requirements. Review the website for the Interstate Renewable Energy Council's Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy (DSIRE). According to the DSIRE, Oregon requires solar electric installers to hold an Electrical Journeyman's License or a Limited Renewable Energy License (LRT). Either a Plumbing Journeyman's License or a Solar Heating and Cooling System Installer License is required to install solar thermal systems. Learn more about Oregon's state licensing requirements for solar installation at http://licenseinfo.oregon.gov or through the Department of Consumer and Business Services - Building Codes Division at http://www.cbs.state.or.us/external/bcd/.
- 3
  Understand which Oregon regulations and incentives apply before contacting Salem solar companies or PV installers.
- 4
  Search for experienced certified installers in Salem who are knowledgeable about the solar industry. Contact local utility companies like Pacific Power and ask if they can recommend any solar installers. Or develop a list of prospective Salem companies and PV installers through the following resources:
  
  Oregon Department of Energy, 2011 Tax-Credit Certified Solar Technicians -- http://www.oregon.gov/ENERGY/CONS/RES/tax/docs/solar_techs.pdf
  
  Oregon Solar Energy Industries Association -- http://www.oseia.org
  
  North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners -- http://www.nabcep.org/
  
  Energy Trust of Oregon -- http://www.energytrust.org
- 5
  Compile a list of qualified Salem solar companies and PV installers to choose from.
- 6
  Prepare a list of questions to ask prospective PV installers and solar companies to assess their capabilities. Find out the answers to the following questions:
  
  - What services do they offer?
  
  - How many years of solar installation experience do they have?
  
  - What are their qualifications?
  
  - Are they bonded?
  
  - Are they experienced in grid connected PV installations?
  
  - Do they have references?
- 7
  Interview prospective Salem solar installers and companies on your list. Ask the questions, and take note of their answers.
- 8
  Follow up on the information provided by Salem solar companies and PV installers. Call their references. Perform a license holder check at http://www.oregonbcd.org/. Bonding information can be confirmed at http://www.oregon.gov/CCB/.
- 9
  Narrow down your choices and select the Salem Company or PV installer who is most experienced, is licensed and has the best track record of successful installations.

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