How To Go Solar

Solar energy is the most abundant renewable energy source available. Today’s technology allows us to harness this resource in several ways, giving homeowners, businesses, and utilities flexible ways to use the heat of the sun.

There are four primary solar technologies:

  • Solar electric or Photovoltaics (PV), which directly converts light to electricity
  • Solar hot water, which collects thermal energy to provide hot water
  • Concentrated solar power (CSP), which uses heat from the sun (thermal energy) to drive utility-scale, electric turbines
  • Passive solar design, which takes advantage of a building’s site, climate, and materials to use the sun’s energy for the heating and cooling of spaces

Oregonians and Washingtonians are increasing installing solar electric and solar hot water systems on their homes and businesses. We’ve developed our online “How to Go Solar” guide to assist you in navigating the process to install these two types of solar. We also encourage you to attend one of our free Basics of Solar Workshops across the region to learn more about installing solar on your home.