The Oregon Department of Energy’s latest biennial energy report reveals just how far solar power has come in our state. Over the past decade, Oregon has embraced a cleaner energy mix, with solar power leading the charge in renewable growth. The numbers speak for themselves: between 2012 and 2022, Oregon’s annual solar generation jumped from 95,100 megawatt-hours to a remarkable 2.2 million MWh—a 23-fold increase! This occurred over a 10-year period when solar generation capacity tripled world-wide. In this post, we’ll cover Oregon’s solar surge and the growth of renewable energy production across Oregon.
Here at True South Solar, we’re thrilled to see this progress and proud to be a part of Oregon’s solar story. Let’s dive into what these numbers mean for Oregon, the role solar plays in our energy landscape, and how we at True South Solar help Oregonians make a positive impact on our energy future.
Solar’s Place in Oregon’s Energy Mix
In 2022, solar contributed 2.8% of Oregon’s overall energy consumption. While hydropower continues to lead, followed by natural gas, coal, wind, and nuclear, solar is gaining momentum as a sustainable, local energy resource. As we’ve seen over the past decade, a consistent commitment to renewable energy yields impressive results, and solar is showing its potential as a reliable energy source in the Pacific Northwest.
But Oregon’s energy mix is about more than just numbers—it’s about the people and communities making a difference. Every solar installation, from rooftop panels to large-scale arrays, plays a role in reducing greenhouse gases, bolstering energy resilience, and supporting Oregon’s renewable energy goals. Oregon has bold clean energy targets, including 100 percent clean electricity by 2040, achieving greenhouse gas emissions levels that are 45 percent below 1990 levels by 2030, a 100 percent zero emission vehicle sales target by 2035, and others. At the same time we are working to achieve these ambitious goals, Oregon is already experiencing the effects of climate change, from extreme weather to natural disasters like wildfires made worse by climate change.
What’s Driving Solar’s 23-Fold Growth?
Solar’s growth in Oregon is no accident. Incentives, technological advances, and a collective push for greener energy have all contributed to this transformation. Programs from the Oregon Department of Energy, along with incentives from the Energy Trust of Oregon, have made solar more accessible and affordable, encouraging homeowners and businesses to consider solar as a viable option. This growth is a testament to the commitment Oregonians have made to sustainability and energy independence, proving that when people have access to high-quality, affordable renewable solutions, they embrace them.
Technological advancements have also played a significant role. Modern solar panels are more efficient, and innovations like Tesla Powerwall 3 make it possible to store solar energy for use when the grid goes down or the sun isn’t shining. This increased efficiency and reliability help more Oregonians feel confident in switching to solar power, knowing they have control over their energy use.
Challenges and Opportunities on the Horizon
While solar power’s growth has been impressive, it currently makes up just a small portion of Oregon’s total energy mix. Hydropower, natural gas, and even coal still account for the majority of the state’s energy consumption. This leaves ample room for solar expansion, especially as Oregon aims to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and increase resilience against outages.
One of the main challenges for further growth is the infrastructure needed to support widespread solar adoption. Solar works best when paired with storage solutions like Tesla Powerwall, which ensures reliable energy access even during power outages. This combination can be especially important in regions with frequent utility interruptions. As technology advances, so does the potential to integrate more solar and storage into Oregon’s energy framework, providing greater independence and stability for communities across the state.
How True South Solar Contributes to Oregon’s Renewable Future
At True South Solar, we’re proud to be a part of Oregon’s solar journey. Our mission is to bring solar power to more homes and businesses in Southern Oregon, helping residents enjoy the benefits of renewable energy while contributing to a sustainable future. Over the past decade, we’ve installed countless systems that harness Oregon’s abundant sunlight to power homes and businesses, making a tangible impact on our community’s energy resilience.
Projects like our recent commercial installation at Central Point Elementary School demonstrate how solar can empower local institutions. And with our commitment to quality and comprehensive customer support, True South Solar ensures that every client, from homeowners to business owners, has access to the best in solar technology. By installing systems that can be paired with Tesla Powerwall, we provide a reliable backup option to address Oregon’s unpredictable power supply.
Looking Forward: A Brighter Future for Solar in Oregon
As Oregon continues to prioritize renewable energy, solar will play an increasingly important role in our energy landscape. The Oregon Department of Energy’s report highlights the progress we’ve made, but it also serves as a reminder that there is still plenty of room to grow. At True South Solar, we’re committed to supporting this growth by bringing dependable, sustainable energy solutions to our community.
If you’re interested in exploring solar options for your home or business, or if you want to contribute to Oregon’s renewable energy future, reach out to us. Every installation brings us closer to a cleaner, more resilient energy system for our state.
To download the report as a PDF, click the link below.