Residential Basics of Going Solar

Sunday, March 27: 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Room D201

This free workshop covers the basics of why solar is a smart choice for Oregon homeowners. We will show you:

How well solar works in Oregon's climate

Available solar technologies

Financial incentives and tax credits

How to choose a contractor

Residential tax credits and incentives often pay for up to 80% of the cost! Participants will come away with basic knowledge about solar energy systems and will be prepared

Bruce Barney, Project Manager,

Customer Energy Resources, Portland General Electric

Bruce is currently Project Manager for the Portland General Electric Customer Energy Resources group. The majority of his work at PGE is managing dispatchable generation projects, but he also manages the net metering program. Net metering allows customers to interconnect their electricity generation (solar, wind, etc) with PGE’s grid to help offset their own power usage. Bruce works with many different groups within PGE, in addition to many of the company's customers, large and small, residential or commercial. His work also takes him in front of the Oregon PUC, TV and radio audiences, and other public forums. Bruce's previous experience includes work in construction management and design-build contracting. He holds degrees in Biology and Mechanical Engineering, with a minor in Electrical Engineering. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Oregon, and has a 3kW solar electric system at his home.