Solar panel cost Hood River: Prices & data 2024
Updated: November 15, 2024As of Nov 2024, the average cost of solar panels in Hood River is $2.54 per watt making a typical 6000 watt (6 kW) solar system $10,650 after claiming the 30% federal solar tax credit now available.
This is lower than the average price of residential solar power systems across the United States which is currently $3.00 per watt.
Installed Hood River solar system cost by:
Solar panel installation cost in Hood River
The size of a solar panel system also plays a role in how much the installation will cost.
Larger solar installations will typically have a lower cost per watt, because the panels can be purchased at a ‘bulk price’. However, these larger solar systems will still have a higher total cost, because they are made up of more individual panels.
Table 2: Average cost of residential solar systems by system size
| System size* | Avg cost per watt |
Avg system cost
(After tax credit) show before tax |
|---|---|---|
| 4kW | $2.77 | $7,764 |
| 5kW | $2.65 | $9,290 |
| 6kW | $2.54 | $10,650 |
| 7kW | $2.51 | $12,291 |
| 8kW | $2.53 | $14,178 |
| 9kW | $2.45 | $15,459 |
| 10kW | $2.43 | $16,985 |
Hood River solar cost and savings calculator
Best unit price
$320.00 ($0.96 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,721.85
($2.53 p/w)
LG335N1K-V5 overview
Rated power
335 watts
Efficiency
19.6
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$562.50 ($1.50 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$12,120.18
($2.49 p/w)
LG375A1C-V5 overview
Rated power
375 watts
Efficiency
21.7
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$430.00 ($1.15 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$12,919.30
($2.65 p/w)
LG375Q1C-V5 overview
Rated power
375 watts
Efficiency
21.7
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$473.34 ($1.30 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$13,231.07
($2.59 p/w)
LG365Q1K-V5 overview
Rated power
365 watts
Efficiency
21.1
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$432.00 ($1.20 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$13,276.66
($2.63 p/w)
LG360Q1K-V5 overview
Rated power
360 watts
Efficiency
20.8
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$530.85 ($1.50 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,386.87
($2.49 p/w)
LG355Q1K-V5 overview
Rated power
355 watts
Efficiency
20.6
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$495.00 ($1.38 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$13,091.06
($2.60 p/w)
LG360Q1C-V5 overview
Rated power
360 watts
Efficiency
20.8
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$407.97 ($1.10 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.2kW system
$13,159.30
($2.54 p/w)
LG370Q1C-V5 overview
Rated power
370 watts
Efficiency
21.4
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$323.39 ($0.97 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,691.01
($2.53 p/w)
LG335N1C-V5 overview
Rated power
335 watts
Efficiency
19.6
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$338.19 ($0.99 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$0.00
($0.00 p/w)
LG340N1C-V5 overview
Rated power
340 watts
Efficiency
19.8
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$600.00 ($1.83 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$12,808.41
($2.61 p/w)
SPR-E20-327-COM overview
Rated power
327 watts
Efficiency
20.4
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$800.00 ($2.22 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$13,201.67
($2.62 p/w)
SPR-X22-360 overview
Rated power
360 watts
Efficiency
22.2
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$620.00 ($1.90 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$13,703.10
($2.79 p/w)
SPR-E20-327-D-AC overview
Rated power
327 watts
Efficiency
20.4
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$620.00 ($1.90 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$13,610.59
($2.77 p/w)
SPR-E20-327 overview
Rated power
327 watts
Efficiency
20.4
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$181.00 ($0.60 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$11,003.04
($2.16 p/w)
CS6K-300MS overview
Rated power
300 watts
Efficiency
18.33
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
CA
Best unit price
$196.11 ($0.65 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$9,948.02
($1.95 p/w)
LR6-60-HPB-300M overview
Rated power
300 watts
Efficiency
18.1
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
Best unit price
$172.00 ($0.56 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$9,568.53
($1.96 p/w)
LR6-60-HPB-305M overview
Rated power
305 watts
Efficiency
18.4
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
Best unit price
$165.00 ($0.53 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$9,761.72
($1.97 p/w)
LR6-60-HPB-310M overview
Rated power
310 watts
Efficiency
18.7
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
Best unit price
$228.00 ($0.60 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$9,579.65
($1.94 p/w)
LR4-60HPH-380M overview
Rated power
380 watts
Efficiency
20.9
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
Best unit price
$234.00 ($0.60 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$10,126.74
($2.00 p/w)
LR6-72HBD-390M overview
Rated power
390 watts
Efficiency
19.4
Number of Cells
144
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
4.83 75 Reviews
Latest review
Robert J, 3 weeks ago
Recently completed a large solar panel installation on my home. I'm very happy with the product that Earthlight proposed, installed and continues to maintain. Firstly, during the design and installation phase they were efficient and timely with the install. Secondly, during the first few months of operation and ironing out any bugs, Earthlight monitored my panels, and noticing any items not working properly they called me, scheduled a visit, came in and made the repairs proactively. Given the upfront cost of solar panels, it is reassuring to know that Earthlight takes their product warranty and reputation seriously.
Read more
Latest review
Robert J, 3 weeks ago
Recently completed a large solar panel installation on my home. I'm very happy with the product that Earthlight proposed, installed and continues to maintain. Firstly, during the design and installation phase they were efficient and timely with the install. Secondly, during the first few months of operation and ironing out any bugs, Earthlight monitored my panels, and noticing any items not working properly they called me, scheduled a visit, came in and made the repairs proactively. Given the upfront cost of solar panels, it is reassuring to know that Earthlight takes their product warranty and reputation seriously.
4.80 37 Reviews
Latest review
Steven Woolpert, over 1 month
I found Smart Solar Energy through my search in Energy Sage for solar installers in my area (Columbia River Gorge) after doing considerable research about solar. There is a lot of information which can be confusing , but I wanted to make informed decisions about size, materials, efficiency, financial incentives, etc for our home installation. I contacted Smart Solar and got a response within a day to set up an online visit time and what documents were needed to assess and design a system, like current electrical usage from the PUD. The online interview with Jordan Showers was very helpful and informative. I got clear, respectful answers to my questions and he spelled out the phases of the solar installation process, product & service warranty, cost & incentives available. It was my decision to proceed--no pressure from Jordan. Smart Solar took responsibility for the permitting processes and WA sales tax credit, set up the installation schedule and solar production & monitoring app, and kept me advised of the steps as installation progressed. This effective communication and keeping to the planned process and cost instilled a confidence in their work & services, which I greatly appreciate. All together, my Smart Solar experience went very smoothly--a testament to their professionalism, belief in the value of solar, and caring for customers in both Oregon & Washington.
Read more
Latest review
Steven Woolpert, over 1 month
I found Smart Solar Energy through my search in Energy Sage for solar installers in my area (Columbia River Gorge) after doing considerable research about solar. There is a lot of information which can be confusing , but I wanted to make informed decisions about size, materials, efficiency, financial incentives, etc for our home installation. I contacted Smart Solar and got a response within a day to set up an online visit time and what documents were needed to assess and design a system, like current electrical usage from the PUD. The online interview with Jordan Showers was very helpful and informative. I got clear, respectful answers to my questions and he spelled out the phases of the solar installation process, product & service warranty, cost & incentives available. It was my decision to proceed--no pressure from Jordan. Smart Solar took responsibility for the permitting processes and WA sales tax credit, set up the installation schedule and solar production & monitoring app, and kept me advised of the steps as installation progressed. This effective communication and keeping to the planned process and cost instilled a confidence in their work & services, which I greatly appreciate. All together, my Smart Solar experience went very smoothly--a testament to their professionalism, belief in the value of solar, and caring for customers in both Oregon & Washington.
4.70 29 Reviews
Latest review
Ellen Casseday, over 1 month
Power Northwest did a great presentation of the solar product, made a competitive offer and did a great job installing the product. We were very pleased with all aspects of the process.
Read more
Latest review
Ellen Casseday, over 1 month
Power Northwest did a great presentation of the solar product, made a competitive offer and did a great job installing the product. We were very pleased with all aspects of the process.
4.69 106 Reviews
Latest review
Pettibone, over 1 month
In May we got a qoute from A & R for a 25.2 kw system. After a bit of back and forth, we were promised a first year production of just under 31,000 for just over $71,000, beating a competitors bid by about $3,000. While they were slow to respond, and failed to male changes to the design based on being told multiple times that their design did not fit the south side of our house (we even provided them with the competitors design and pictures), we went with them because we were promised that they would honor the price and production promises if changes had to be made after the on site survey. We signed the contract towards the end of June, and we're supposed to have the install occur beginning of September. after the on site survey, they came back wanting to reduce the size of the system to 22.6 kw, for a higher price and massive reduction in promised production. First seemed to think we'd accept this smaller system for the same price, and then that we'd be ok with a system producing around $500 less worth of power per year for the same price. Now they seem to think thar we'd accept a $90,000 system for the agreed to production when the competitors offer was $74,000 and seem to think that canceling the contract would fit the electing to cancel cause in the contract, rather than termination with cause.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$14,750 ($2.95 per watt)
Latest review
Pettibone, over 1 month
In May we got a qoute from A & R for a 25.2 kw system. After a bit of back and forth, we were promised a first year production of just under 31,000 for just over $71,000, beating a competitors bid by about $3,000. While they were slow to respond, and failed to male changes to the design based on being told multiple times that their design did not fit the south side of our house (we even provided them with the competitors design and pictures), we went with them because we were promised that they would honor the price and production promises if changes had to be made after the on site survey. We signed the contract towards the end of June, and we're supposed to have the install occur beginning of September. after the on site survey, they came back wanting to reduce the size of the system to 22.6 kw, for a higher price and massive reduction in promised production. First seemed to think we'd accept this smaller system for the same price, and then that we'd be ok with a system producing around $500 less worth of power per year for the same price. Now they seem to think thar we'd accept a $90,000 system for the agreed to production when the competitors offer was $74,000 and seem to think that canceling the contract would fit the electing to cancel cause in the contract, rather than termination with cause.
4.66 51 Reviews
Latest review
DaveMac, over 1 month
Kirpal (owner of Oregon Solar Works) understands the systems he installs better than certain other companies that bid on my project. He asked questions to determine what my goals were as well what he thought I needed. We discussed the pros and cons of various set-ups and came to a system tailored to my wants, needs and new understandings. At no time did I feel pressured to go with a a stock system or hurry to lock in a "deal too good to miss". During the install Kirpal and his crew were great. All of them pay attention to details and keep the site clean. They took the time to answer any concerns I had or explain a detail that I was unfamiliar with. After the install and "commissioning" of the system, and after all monies had been paid, Kirpal was, and is, still quick to answer the phone or a text message if I see something unusual. My past jobs in high tech R&D required technical knowledge and attention to detail. I can be persistent at making sure those I work with deliver what is promised. I found Kirpal and his crew to be very professional, deliver on promises and a pleasure to work with.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$16,250 ($3.25 per watt)
Latest review
DaveMac, over 1 month
Kirpal (owner of Oregon Solar Works) understands the systems he installs better than certain other companies that bid on my project. He asked questions to determine what my goals were as well what he thought I needed. We discussed the pros and cons of various set-ups and came to a system tailored to my wants, needs and new understandings. At no time did I feel pressured to go with a a stock system or hurry to lock in a "deal too good to miss". During the install Kirpal and his crew were great. All of them pay attention to details and keep the site clean. They took the time to answer any concerns I had or explain a detail that I was unfamiliar with. After the install and "commissioning" of the system, and after all monies had been paid, Kirpal was, and is, still quick to answer the phone or a text message if I see something unusual. My past jobs in high tech R&D required technical knowledge and attention to detail. I can be persistent at making sure those I work with deliver what is promised. I found Kirpal and his crew to be very professional, deliver on promises and a pleasure to work with.
4.63 196 Reviews
Latest review
Ryan Braat, 3 weeks ago
Justin Dygert and the whole IWS team performed an above and beyond Install of our solar system. The whole process from permitting, scheduling, and install was all very hands off, stress free and smooth. Justin reached out every week to make sure we didn't have any concerns or questions and genuinely cared for our needs and wants. If I could give 6 stars I would.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$15,000 ($3.00 per watt)
Latest review
Ryan Braat, 3 weeks ago
Justin Dygert and the whole IWS team performed an above and beyond Install of our solar system. The whole process from permitting, scheduling, and install was all very hands off, stress free and smooth. Justin reached out every week to make sure we didn't have any concerns or questions and genuinely cared for our needs and wants. If I could give 6 stars I would.
4.59 35 Reviews
Latest review
Anonymous, over 1 month
E2 Solar has now installed two PV systems for me. They are knowledgeable, professional and committed. I recommend them without reservation.
Read more
Latest review
Anonymous, over 1 month
E2 Solar has now installed two PV systems for me. They are knowledgeable, professional and committed. I recommend them without reservation.
4.53 13 Reviews
Latest review
Jeff Hadley, over 1 month
The Cascade Solar team was great. They helped me design the solar system for my home. The install went smoothly and was done on time. They handled all of the paper work and continue to provide support after the install was complete.
Read more
Latest review
Jeff Hadley, over 1 month
The Cascade Solar team was great. They helped me design the solar system for my home. The install went smoothly and was done on time. They handled all of the paper work and continue to provide support after the install was complete.
4.52 1,953 Reviews
Latest review
Landon, 2 weeks ago
I had applied to a door to door sales position and scheduled a 1-1 zoom call from 1:50pm-2:10pm wed 10/30/2024. Interviewer never showed up. Didn't even bother to communicate if something came up. How can you trust a company that doesn't care about its employees... waisted 20min of my time.
Read more
Latest review
Landon, 2 weeks ago
I had applied to a door to door sales position and scheduled a 1-1 zoom call from 1:50pm-2:10pm wed 10/30/2024. Interviewer never showed up. Didn't even bother to communicate if something came up. How can you trust a company that doesn't care about its employees... waisted 20min of my time.
4.50 10 Reviews
Latest review
Dundee OR, over 1 month
I did not know it at the time but what Solar Energy Solutions gave me was more than a great job, it was truly a gift that continues to influence me, my family, my neighbors and my community.<br />
Read more
Latest review
Dundee OR, over 1 month
I did not know it at the time but what Solar Energy Solutions gave me was more than a great job, it was truly a gift that continues to influence me, my family, my neighbors and my community.<br />
How much do solar systems using the most common brands of solar panels cost in Hood River in 2024?
Where there is no specific pricing information available for a brand then we have used state pricing data for that brand.
Table 2: Local solar panel manufacturers
| Solar panel manufacturer | Avg. cost per watt |
|---|---|
| Canadian Solar | $2.37 |
| LONGi Solar | $2.28 |
| LG Solar | $2.82 |
| Panasonic | $2.85 |
| SunPower | $2.96 |
Why solar panel cost should not be your only consideration when buying solar panels for your home
The most important difference between buying solar panels and any other purchase is that solar panels last 25-30 years. This is a long, long time and you will need customer service over all that time. The reviews below of the two largest corporate solar installation companies indicate larger corporate solar companies are not delivering this support to their customers.
We recommend you find a small or mid-size, local, family-owned solar company. These companies tend to care more about you and your specific job. You don't want to be on hold to a corporation's call center for the next 25 years!
What other factors affect the cost of solar panels for your home?
The cost of solar doesn't just include the equipment and installation costs - it’s also made up of permitting costs, inspection costs, and installer profit margins.
These different components are what make the price of solar fluctuate between installations. Some of the factors that affect solar power system installation costs for specific homes include:
The amount of electricity your home uses
Homes that use more electricity will need more solar panels to cover their energy needs.
Although solar panels do get cheaper on a per-watt basis, the overall cost of the system will increase as more panels are added.
But, the higher a home’s energy usage, the more solar panels can save the homeowners on their energy bills.
The type of solar panels you buy
The price of solar panels can vary depending on the type of solar panels you choose.
There are two main types of solar panels for residential solar installations: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Monocrystalline solar panels tend to be more efficient and more expensive than other solar panels. Polycrystalline panels have a lower efficiency rating and come at a lower price point.
The type of inverter you buy will also influence the cost of your solar system.
The quality of your solar installation
You may see some solar quotes with prices that seem too good to be true.
If you get quoted for a ridiculously cheap price, the installer might be using low-quality equipment or an unsustainable pricing model. You want to use a solar installer that is charging enough so that they can stay in business - as you’ll be relying on them for the next 25 years!
It’s important to make sure that your installer is giving you the best quality at the best price possible. This is why getting multiple solar quotes is so important.
Federal, state, and local solar incentives
The overall cost of solar can be influenced by the solar incentives available.
Across the U.S., homeowners can apply for the federal solar tax credit. The solar tax credit makes installing solar more cost-effective by providing homeowners with a tax credit equal to 30% of the cost of their installed solar panel system.
Local solar tax incentives and rebates can end up saving homeowners thousands on a solar installation, especially when they’re used with the federal solar tax credit.
See what solar incentives are available in your area by using our solar panel calculator.
How is the cost of solar panels offset by solar tax credits in Hood River?
The cost of installing residential solar panels in Hood River varies with the brand of solar panels and inverters you choose, the installation company you choose to install them, the relative ease or difficulty of installing solar panels on your home, and of course the amount of solar panels you need. The amount of solar panels you need is, in turn, related to your energy usage.
Are solar panels worth it in Hood River in 2024
The table below shows the data extracted from a real life quote delivered through the SolarReviews marketplace recently for a fairly typical home in Hood River.
As you can see the payback period is relatively short and equates to a much better return on investment than he historical returns that have been available from investing in things like shares or property.
Table 2: Cost, savings and payback period for an average residential solar system in Hood River
| System information | Value |
|---|---|
| System Size (for 100% usage offset) | 10.93 kW |
| Annual power generation | 12,583 kWh |
| Pay-back time (assuming Cash purchase) | 12.3 Years |
| Internal rate of return (IRR) on investment | 1.2% |
| Gross cost | $28,260 |
| Total Upfront Incentives and Rebates | -$7,347 |
| Net Cost of System after rebated and incentives | $20,910 |
| Total Cost of Utility Power Avoided over 25 years | $52,903 |
Please note that the investment return figures do not include the possible increase in property value