Why Frank Chose Solar Power for His Happy Valley Home

Frank Pacosa, like many Portland-area homeowners, was facing rising energy costs. His decision to go solar stemmed primarily from a desire to reduce his energy bills and lock in future savings, with the added benefit of contributing to environmental sustainability.

"We have a great south-facing roof, and I was waiting for the cost to be affordable. Energy cost inflation was also an important initial reason."

Frank's south-facing roof made his home an ideal candidate for solar power, and Elemental Energy was ready to help him harness that potential.

‍Elemental Energy's Tailored Solar Solution

Our team, with solar expert Aaron Bredl handling sales and Quinn Collins managing the project, designed a custom solar solution to meet Frank's current and future energy needs:

• 7.14 kW solar panel system (17 REC 420 Pure-R panels)
• Tesla Powerwall 2 with 13.5 kWh of battery storage

This combination of solar panels and battery storage wasn’t just about meeting Frank's current energy demands. The system was also designed to accommodate his future electric HVAC installation plans, ensuring long-term value and energy independence.

‍Impressive Results: Energy Production and Savings

Frank's solar system has delivered significant benefits:

• Year 1 Energy Production: 8,576 kWh
• Energy Offset: 120% of Frank's annual usage
• Estimated Payback Time: Approximately eight years

Beyond the financial savings, Frank’s system is making a real environmental impact:

• 1.3 tons of CO2 avoided annually
• 24,190 car miles avoided over the system's lifetime
• Equivalent to planting 250 trees

Frank also took advantage of the LMI (Low- to Moderate-Income) program through the Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE) and the Energy Trust of Oregon’s (ETO) Solar Within Reach (SWR) increased incentive program. These incentives helped make the installation more affordable.

To learn more about available solar incentives, visit our Solar Incentives page.

Frank has found that his solar system provides benefits beyond just reducing his energy bills:

"From March to August, all house electricity is covered with 800 kWh in the bank for winter dark time. I plan on using all banked energy by installing electric heat units for Winter. This will offset gas heat use and is a further cost benefit."

The system has also given Frank peace of mind about his energy usage:

"The benefit of a guilt-free cold thermostat setting in summer has been great."

Frank's Tesla Powerwall provides backup during power outages, allowing him to power his freezer, refrigerator, and internet for several days. This energy security offers peace of mind, especially during Oregon's unpredictable weather events.

‍Why Frank Chose Elemental Energy for His Solar Installation

When it came to choosing a solar installer, Frank appreciated Elemental Energy's local expertise and commitment:

"The sales rep presented the best bid with a compelling story of the company's roots and service history. The big company bid boasted they would be around when smaller local companies might fold. It turns out the big solar company that gave me a bid just folded, and EE is going strong."

Our local focus and dedication to customer satisfaction set us apart in the Portland solar market. Frank’s installation was expertly managed by Quinn Collins, with Aaron Bredl providing the initial guidance to ensure Frank's needs were fully understood.

‍Join the Solar Movement in Portland

Frank's story demonstrates the real-world benefits of going solar with Elemental Energy. Solar power offers a compelling solution whether you're looking to reduce your carbon footprint, gain energy independence, or save on long-term energy costs.

Are you curious about what solar could do for your Portland-area home? Take the first step towards energy independence today. Schedule your free site evaluation with Elemental Energy, and let's create your own solar success story.

Schedule Your Free Solar Consultation Now

Remember, every ray of sunshine is an opportunity to power your home and contribute to a more sustainable Portland. Let Elemental Energy help you capture that potential!

‍Related Articles:

Understanding Solar Incentives in Oregon

‍The Benefits of Battery Storage for Your Solar System

‍How to Choose the Right Solar Installer in Portland

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