Some homeowners assume they’ll qualify for nonprofit or utility solar incentives, only to find out their installer isn’t on the approved list.
Before signing a contract, verify your installer’s eligibility to ensure you receive all available financial benefits.Solar incentives and rebates are often tied to approved contractors who meet specific licensing, certification, and program requirements. If you’re in Oregon or Washington, check your installer against the approved lists from Energy Trust of Oregon (ETO) or Puget Sound Energy (PSE) before committing to a project.To qualify for ETO solar incentives, installers must:
Hold an Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) license and follow state electrical code requirements.
Have NABCEP Certification (recommended for quality assurance).
Meet ETO’s Solar Electric System Requirements, including proper design documentation, performance verification, and installation standards.
Be part of the Trade Ally Network with program-specific requirements and insurance coverage.
If applying as a trade ally for certain programs (e.g., Existing Buildings, Business Lighting, or Existing Multifamily), provide three past project references.
Learn more about ETO’s Trade Ally Program
[gem_divider]If you’re a PSE customer in Washington, you can work with a PSE-approved Recommended Energy Professional (REP) for energy-efficient upgrades, solar, and electric vehicle (EV) charging.
Licensed, bonded, and insured contractors.
Experts in energy codes, high-efficiency equipment, and product applications.
Regularly trained on the latest technology.
A REP will assist with rebates and incentives for:
Solar panels (through PSE’s Customer Connected Solar program).
EV chargers, space heating, cooling, water heating, and weatherization.
Multifamily property upgrades, including HVAC, water heating, insulation, air sealing, lighting, and smart thermostats.
Find a PSE-approved REPBefore committing to an installer, verify their eligibility to ensure your system qualifies for incentives and rebates. Using an approved installer means your project will meet all necessary standards, helping you avoid unexpected costs and maximize your savings.
This is just one of the many solar scams homeowners need to watch out for. Keep reading our Solar Scams Series to stay informed and protect yourself from other common tricks used by shady solar salespeople.
[gem_textbox content_background_color=”#F4F6F7″ rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] Exposed: The Tricks Hidden in Your Solar QuoteLearn how shady companies hide fees and overpromise savings[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] The Truth Behind ‘Free Solar’ OffersUncover the fine print in those zero-cost solar ads[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] Low Interest Rate? High Dealer Fees You Didn’t SeeThese ‘cheap’ loans may cost thousands more than you think[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] No, You Can’t Claim Solar Depreciation For Your HomeThis business-only tax perk is being misused in sales pitches[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] Act Fast? Not So Fast—Solar’s Fake DeadlinesWhy urgency tactics are a huge red flag in solar sales[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] No, Your Roof Isn’t Covered by the Solar Tax CreditSalespeople love saying it is—here’s why they’re wrong[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] 100% Offset? The Myth of the Perfect Solar SystemPromises of total energy savings often don’t add up[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] Free Panel Removal Later? Think AgainWhat happens when your roof needs work and your installer ghosts you[/gem_textbox][gem_textbox rectangle_corner=”lt” border_color=”#DD9933″ border_radius=”10″] Vetted by Utilities? Check That Claim TwiceSome companies falsely claim their from your utility to earn your trust[/gem_textbox]
