Solar Panel Output in Oregon (OR)
Oregon proves solar works even in cloudy climates. While western Oregon is known for rain, eastern Oregon has semi-arid conditions with 5+ peak sun hours. Even Portland generates meaningful solar power, and long summer days compensate for winter clouds.
Peak Sun Hours (Annual)
4.2
Summer Peak Hours
6
Winter Peak Hours
2.5
Optimal Tilt Angle
44°
Daily Solar Output in Oregon
Expected daily production from common panel sizes in Oregon conditions.
| Panel Size | Summer (Wh/day) | Winter (Wh/day) | Annual Avg (Wh/day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100W Panel | 600 | 250 | 405 |
| 200W Panel | 1200 | 500 | 810 |
| 400W Panel | 2400 | 1000 | 1620 |
* Based on 4.2 average peak sun hours and 85% system efficiency.
Seasonal Peak Sun Hours
Spring
4.5 hrs
Summer
6 hrs
Fall
4 hrs
Winter
2.5 hrs
Solar Production by City in Oregon
| City | Peak Sun Hours | 100W Daily Output | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portland | 4 hrs | 340Wh | Cloudy winters, sunny summers |
| Bend | 5.2 hrs | 442Wh | East of Cascades, excellent solar |
| Eugene | 4 hrs | 340Wh | Similar to Portland |
| Medford | 4.8 hrs | 408Wh | Southern Oregon, drier climate |
Oregon Climate Considerations
- •Western Oregon has significant cloud cover and rain
- •Eastern Oregon is sunny and dry
- •Long summer days (15+ hours) boost production
- •Mild temperatures mean efficient panel operation
- ✓Eastern Oregon off-grid
- ✓Summer production
- ✓Cloudy climate proof-of-concept
- ✓Eco-conscious homeowners
- !Winter cloud cover (west)
- !Seasonal variation
- !Sizing for winter
Solar Tips for Oregon
- •Eastern Oregon (Bend, Pendleton) has significantly better solar than Portland
- •Size your system for winter if year-round power is critical
- •Long summer days (15+ hours) mean excellent summer production
- •Battery storage is essential to bridge cloudy periods
- •Microinverters handle partial shading from clouds well
Frequently Asked Questions: Solar in Oregon
How much solar power can I generate in Oregon?
Oregon averages 4.2 peak sun hours statewide. Portland produces about 400Wh per 100W panel daily, while Bend reaches 500Wh+.
Is solar worth it in Portland?
Yes, especially for summer production and backup power. Portland gets enough sun for meaningful production. Pair with a larger battery bank for winter.
How does eastern Oregon compare to western Oregon for solar?
Eastern Oregon (Bend, Pendleton) gets 30-40% more sun than Portland. If you are east of the Cascades, solar production is excellent.