Solar Panel Savings in The Dalles, OR
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in The Dalles, Oregon. Based on 4 peak sun hours/day and 9.7¢/kWh average electricity rate.
4
Peak Sun Hours/Day
9.7¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
17.9 yr
Payback Period
$23k
25-Year Savings
The Dalles Solar Overview
Calculate Your The Dalles Solar Savings
The Dalles average: $87/mo
South-facing roofs produce the most energy
Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup
Annual Production
kWh/year
Annual Savings
per year
Net System Cost
after 30% ITC
Payback Period
break-even time
25-Year Total Savings
$23,159
Monthly Savings
$57
Federal Tax Credit
$5,058
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | The Dalles | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $16,860 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,058 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $11,802 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $2.81/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in The Dalles
Sun Hours vs National Average
The Dalles gets 11% less sun than the national average, but high-efficiency panels compensate.
Climate Advantages
- 167 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 52°F — cooler temps actually improve panel efficiency
- Average roof size: 1,565 sq ft — enough for a 86-panel system
The Dalles Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $16,860 system, that's a $5,058 credit. Valid through 2032.
Oregon State Incentives
Solar + Storage Rebate Program.
Net Metering — Portland General Electric
Portland General Electric offers net metering in The Dalles. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in The Dalles
2.9
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
48
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.7
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 7,008 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.
Solar Energy in The Dalles, Oregon
The Dalles, Oregon receives an average of 4 peak sun hours per day, offering adequate solar resources for homeowners looking to reduce their electricity bills. With electricity rates averaging 9.7¢ per kWh from Portland General Electric, below the national average, but with rates rising 2-3% annually, the long-term savings are still meaningful.
A typical 6kW solar system in The Dalles produces approximately 7,008 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $678 annually. The system pays for itself in about 17.4 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 8+ years of the system's warranty life.
The Dalles has a solar penetration rate of 7.6% — showing growing adoption of residential solar, with significant room for expansion. The cost of living index of 108.6 (national average: 100) is near the national average.
Other Cities in Oregon
Bend, OR
Corvallis, OR
Eugene, OR
Medford, OR
Portland, OR
Salem, OR
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in The Dalles, OR?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in The Dalles is approximately $16,860 before incentives ($2.81/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $11,802. Solar + Storage Rebate Program.
How many peak sun hours does The Dalles get?
The Dalles, OR receives an average of 4 peak sun hours per day and approximately 167 sunny days per year. This is near the national average, providing good conditions for residential solar panels.
What is the solar payback period in The Dalles?
The average solar payback period in The Dalles is approximately 17.9 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $23,159.
Does The Dalles have net metering?
Yes, The Dalles has access to net metering through Portland General Electric. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.
Is solar worth it in The Dalles, OR?
Solar can still be worthwhile in The Dalles, especially with rising electricity rates. The 17.9-year payback means long-term savings of $23,159 over the system lifetime. The 30% federal tax credit and local incentives help make solar financially attractive.