Resources
Learn Solar
These are the best resources for understanding solar technology at a technical level. We point you here for deep dives — our site focuses on the Oregon-specific regulatory and practical framework they don’t cover.
- Will Prowse / DIY Solar Power — The gold standard for DIY solar YouTube content. Component reviews, system builds, and honest testing.
- DIY Solar Forum — Active community for DIY solar builders. Great for specific technical questions and troubleshooting.
- r/solar — Reddit’s solar community. Mix of DIY and professional discussion.
Oregon-Specific
- Oregon Building Codes Division — The state agency that administers building and specialty codes.
- Energy Trust of Oregon — Incentives and resources for professional solar installations. Not DIY-focused, but useful for understanding the incentive landscape.
- SolarOregon — Nonprofit promoting solar in Oregon. Professional-installer focused.
Tools
- PVWatts Calculator (NREL) — Free tool from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory for estimating solar production at your location. Essential for system sizing.
- Home Assistant — Open-source home automation platform. Excellent for solar monitoring and energy dashboards.
Other Paths to Solar
Garage Solar isn’t for everyone. Here’s where to go if a different approach fits better:
- Renters / apartments: Bright Saver — Nonprofit working on plug-in balcony solar legislation
- Want a professional install: Energy Trust of Oregon — Incentives and installer directory
- Comparing bids: EnergySage — Marketplace for comparing solar installer quotes
Suppliers
Curated list of recommended suppliers for panels, batteries, charge controllers, and inverters — both Portland-area local and online — coming soon.