In Oregon, a 9.2-kW system for an average home costs about $22,361 after incentives in 2026, saves about $1,607 in the first year and pays back in 11.8 years.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Solar, 9.24 kW × $2.42/W | $22,361 |
| Federal credit (0%) | $0 |
| Net cost | $22,361 |
| Scenario | Net cost | Year-1 savings | Payback | 25-yr net |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| State averages (above) | $22,361 | $1,607 | 11.8 yr | $34,130 |
| Rates rise 5.6%/yr (2020–25 pace) | $22,361 | $1,607 | 10.6 yr | $57,053 |
| Rates stay flat | $22,361 | $1,607 | 14 yr | $16,611 |
| Survey price $3.4/W (LBNL) | $31,416 | $1,607 | 15.8 yr | $25,075 |
| Add 13.5-kWh battery | $41,963 | $1,607 | 19.9 yr | $14,528 |
| Exports cut to 50% of retail | $15,972 | $832 | 15.9 yr | $12,396 |
Verdict: at average Oregon numbers, solar is a solid investment in 2026 — payback takes 11.8 years, leaving you $34,130 ahead after 25 years. The main reasons: weak sun (the 3rd-lowest yield of 51); 1:1 net metering, which credits every exported kWh at the full retail price. Pay cash if you can: Berkeley Lab found loan-financed systems priced about $1.50/W above cash installs in 2025, which can add years to the payback.
Net metering and exports in Oregon: Net metering (<25 kW) with credits expiring after 12 months (March true-up); Idaho Power OR customers on net billing since 2024.
Battery: a 13.5-kWh battery at the Oregon average of $1,452/kWh adds $19,602 and saves almost nothing extra under 1:1 net metering — buy it for backup, not payback; payback becomes 19.9 years.
EnergySage's Oregon page lists a 13.6-year payback. Its method is not fully published; ours uses EIA's Jan–Aug 2026 price, 1:1 net metering, 3%/yr rate growth and 0.5%/yr panel aging, with no federal credit.
The full method, material data and tips are on the main solar payback calculator page.