Cashing in on Oregon’s Feed-in-Tariff

What’s a feed-in-tariff?

Feed-in-tariff programs help you get paid a fixed, premium rate for the solar power you produce, making it easier than ever to invest in new solar panels. This type of incentive program has been successfully used in places like Germany, which is now the world’s largest consumer of solar panels. Now Oregonians have a feed-in-tariff program as well, and if you live in Oregon, it’s a great reason to get solar panels.

How much can you get paid?

The amount varies depending on the county that you live in, but you can make as much as 65 cents per kilowatt-hour– a good deal considering that the average cost of electricity in Oregon is 10 cents per kwh. Homeowners and others with small solar systems can make more than bigger solar producers. We’ve made a handy table breaking down the payment rate by county below.

How do payments work?

The payment system is similar to net metering. You’ll pay your utility company for any electricity that you use, at their standard rate. But then they’ll pay you– at the much higher rate of 65 cents– for the solar power you produce. The difference between the two will go a long way to helping pay off your solar system.

Who’s eligible?

If your solar system was installed after July 2010, you’re eligible. Your system must be sized to produce 90% of your energy needs– you can’t install more power than you need just to try to cash in.

How long will the incentive be available?

The feed-in-tariff is first-come, first-served, with a limit on how many people can participate. Statewide, the maximum is 25 megawatts of solar electricity generation. The program started July 1, with a portion of the total eligible for sign-ups. On October 1, more people can sign up, and more people will be allowed into the program every six months after that. Rates are subject to change in October, and at future sign-up times. The program will end by March 31, 2015, and possibly sooner.

Can you use the feed-in-tariff with other incentives?

You can take advantage of the feed-in-tariff along with the federal solar tax credit. However, if you use the feed-in-tariff, you won’t be able to get the Energy Trust solar incentive or the Oregon state tax credit.

Learn more

Feel free to contact us with questions. The program is brand new, and the Public Utilities Commission should be adding more information soon.