Solar power is booming in Oregon.
The state now has more than 40,000 solar power projects under construction.
Now that solar is on tap, we decided to put our solar energy credentials to the test.
We asked solar power experts to explain how solar is different from the conventional power plants and how you can find the best solar projects in Portland.
What are the advantages of solar power?
Solar power has the potential to generate clean electricity that is more efficient and cheaper to produce.
It is also less expensive than traditional power plants, which is why solar power has become so popular in recent years.
What is a solar panel?
A solar panel is a structure that converts sunlight into electricity by absorbing and converting some of the solar energy into heat.
The panels are generally made from glass or aluminum.
They are typically attached to a solar array and then connected to a power line.
How much does a solar energy panel cost?
Solar panels can be found for a few cents per kilowatt hour, depending on the type of panels used.
This is a relatively low price considering the amount of electricity that needs to be produced.
But a solar installation can run for several years and the solar panels themselves can cost up to $5,000 per unit.
How do you choose a solar project?
First, you need to choose the best location.
In Portland, the most popular locations for solar installations are along the riverfront and in the neighborhood of downtown.
These areas are very convenient for people who commute by car or bike.
Next, you want to choose a project.
There are three types of projects in Oregon: large solar arrays, smaller arrays and rooftop solar.
The most important thing to consider is whether the solar system will be a full-service or a service-oriented solar installation.
If it is a service system, the solar array will need to have a dedicated inverter to power the panels and provide power to the home.
If the system is a full service, it will need a separate inverter and batteries to provide power for the entire system.
Solar panels and solar arrays can be installed at the same time or in different locations.
Solar power can be expensive if you are buying in bulk.
You can also choose the type and size of panels and the size of the array.
The cost of solar energy is lower if you choose to purchase your solar energy from a solar company.
What happens if the sun isn’t shining?
Solar energy is not only cheap to produce, but it is also cleaner than coal, natural gas, nuclear and other fossil fuels.
The solar energy industry in the United States has grown from just 1,000 projects in 2009 to more than 4,400 in 2016, according to Solar Energy Industries Association.
Solar energy can help us transition away from fossil fuels and other sources of power generation.
Are there solar energy projects in the Portland area?
Yes.
There is an array of solar panels in the Port of Portland.
The Portland Solar Electric Facility is a facility owned and operated by SolarCity.
The Port of St. Johns is home to a SolarCity solar array located in Portland’s Pioneer Square.
SolarCity has installed solar power in the St. John area since 2011, but the facility has not been operational since February 2018.
In addition, the Portland Solar Energy Project has been operational at the Pioneer Square location since 2014.
Where to find solar power The solar panels can help you make an informed decision about the location and the type, size and location of your solar project.
We encourage you to take advantage of the information and resources listed below.
For example, we have developed a tool that helps you select a solar system and project location.