Business Details
36 Years
experience
Expert Solar Panel Installation in Bend, OR
Founded in 1990, Sunlight Solar is a Bend, Oregon-based leader in solar panel installation and maintenance, serving residential and commercial clients statewide. With over 30 years of industry experience, we specialize in premium grid-tied solar electric systems, leveraging our expertise in site assessment, battery storage, and EV charging integration. Our team of licensed renewable energy technicians and NABCEP-certified professionals has completed over 3,000 installations, including notable projects like the Oregon State Capitol.As one of Oregons earliest Energy Trust Solar Trade Allies, we combine pioneering experience with cutting-edge technology to deliver energy independence and sustainability. Our customer-centric approach ensures tailored solutions, backed by industry-leading warranties and a commitment to local solar advocacy through partnerships with organizations like OSEIA.
Services
Residential Solar
Commercial Solar
EV Charging Systems
Battery Storage
Site Assessment
New Construction
Maintenance
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in solar energy systems.
- Our team includes NABCEP-certified professionals and licensed renewable technicians.
- Industry-leading warranties back all our solar installations.
- We pioneered grid-tied solar systems in Oregon since 1990.
- Complete project support from site assessment to installation.
Associations and certifications
- NABCEP Certified
- Energy Trust of Oregon Solar Trade Ally
What people say
Quality installations
Knowledgeable staff
Reliable service
Energy savings
Customer support
Services
Residential Solar
Our residential solar solutions empower homeowners to reduce energy costs and carbon footprints. We design and install grid-tied systems tailored to individual energy needs. Customers benefit from federal tax credits and increased property value.
Commercial Solar
Commercial solar systems help businesses achieve sustainability goals while lowering operational expenses. We handle projects from small offices to large-scale facilities. Our EPC contracts ensure seamless design-to-completion processes.
EV Charging Systems
EV charging solutions integrate with solar systems for clean transportation. We install Level 2 chargers and DC fast chargers at homes and businesses. Customers enjoy reduced fuel costs and carbon-neutral commuting.
Battery Storage
Battery storage systems provide energy independence during outages. We offer Tesla Powerwall and other backup solutions for residential and commercial use. Clients maintain power during grid failures or at night.
Site Assessment
Site assessments determine solar viability through shading analysis and roof condition checks. Our experts use advanced tools to maximize system efficiency. Customers receive customized recommendations before installation begins.
People
Paul Israel
Founder and President
Paul founded Sunlight Solar in 1990 after decades in energy. He pioneered Oregons first grid-tied systems and serves as a board member for OSEIA. His leadership drives our technical excellence.
Joe Mazzarella
System Design & Project Development
Joe specializes in residential and commercial solar design. With NABCEP certification, he develops 50+ projects annually. His expertise ensures optimal system performance and client satisfaction.
Robert Johnson
Supervising Electrician
Robert oversees installations and quality assurance. A licensed electrician since 2004, he ensures all projects meet electrical codes and safety standards. His technical oversight guarantees reliable system operation.
Max Sampsel
Project Manager
Max manages permitting, scheduling, and client communication. With a mechanical engineering background, he ensures projects finish on time and within budget. His coordination streamlines our installation process.
Jaden Beyer
Outreach and Sales Coordinator
Jaden connects with leads and supports sales initiatives. She graduated with degrees in sustainability and marketing. Her outreach efforts expand clean energy access across Central Oregon.
Questions
What solar services do you offer?
We provide residential/commercial solar installation, battery storage, EV charging, site assessments, and new construction pre-wiring.
Do you offer warranties?
Yes, all systems include industry-leading warranties covering equipment and workmanship for long-term reliability.
Can solar panels power my entire home?
Yes, properly sized systems can offset 80-100% of energy usage depending on consumption patterns and sunlight exposure.
How long does installation take?
Most residential installations complete in 1-3 days after permitting. Commercial projects vary by system size.
What incentives are available?
Clients qualify for federal tax credits up to 26% and state-specific programs reducing upfront costs.
Do you service existing systems?
Yes, we provide maintenance and repair services for solar panels and battery systems regardless of installer origin.
Reviews (7)
Leslie Taylor
Aug 24, 2021
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We had our initial solar array installed by Sunlight Solar in 2011, a second in 2014 and recently needed some updating. Each time the office personnel and the people who did the work were responsible, respectful and efficient. I feel very confident in their expertise and appreciate the help we have had over the past 10 years and can recommend them highly.
David Russ
Mar 22, 2021
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We recently completed a 21-panel system on our roof. The job included changing our electrical panel to bring it up to date, and the late addition of the "critter guard", as a squirrel nested under our panels almost as soon as it was put in place. Sunlight made the system to our specifications, they did it cleanly and within budget. There were some unavoidable delays, as is often the case, but the professionals at Sunlight distinguished themselves by maintaining communication and transparency during the process. We are pleased with the outcome, and the process was good as well. I would recommend that you have Sunlight look at your project.
Dennis Shen
Mar 16, 2021
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Sunlight Solar was very nice to deal with on the install 3 years ago. Two days ago I noticed a 3501 error code on the display. I emailed Sunlight Solar, got an immediate response, and they were over the next day and fixed the issue. (drilled weep holes in a connector box and caulked same) It was covered by warranty. Nathan Braun, Nick Isham and the two masked guys who came over to do the work should all get raises.
Olaf Kowalik
Dec 12, 2020
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I have an old solar system at my house which was installed by the previous owner. The inverter failed and I needed to replace it (prior installer and system manufacturer are all out of business now). I think I called every single solar installer in Portland for help. Sunlight Solar was the only one who was willing to help me with a replacement (everyone else only does new installs and isn't interested in helping with repairs/replacement).
Even though they were busy, Sunlight Solar came out that week and did an assessment and quickly gave me a quote. They ordered a replacement and scheduled the install a few weeks later. Jim and Garrett were awesome, explained everything and answered all my questions. They even did the install without needed to turn off my power which was really important for us because we're all working from home now. Nick, the construction coordinator, was super responsive and answered all my questions and went the extra mile to resolve initial wifi connectivity issues with my new inverter. I was really impressed with their customer support and install services (especially since no other Portland solar company would help me). Thanks Nick & team!
Even though they were busy, Sunlight Solar came out that week and did an assessment and quickly gave me a quote. They ordered a replacement and scheduled the install a few weeks later. Jim and Garrett were awesome, explained everything and answered all my questions. They even did the install without needed to turn off my power which was really important for us because we're all working from home now. Nick, the construction coordinator, was super responsive and answered all my questions and went the extra mile to resolve initial wifi connectivity issues with my new inverter. I was really impressed with their customer support and install services (especially since no other Portland solar company would help me). Thanks Nick & team!
Emma L.
Jul 01, 2020
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Sunlight Solar was comparable in price to a few other companies, but I chose them because they offered the enphase inverters that I preferred. They were knowledgeable, efficient, and friendly. I first contacted them on May 4, and my system is up and running July 1! They were very fast. I think some of the wait has to do with permits, and things being closed because of covid. I would highly recommend Sunlight Solar!
Kim Burgess
Mar 10, 2020
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We have had a great experience with Sunlight Solar. They installed our system two years ago. We chose them because they creatively came up with the best design to maximize our roof space for solar production. Everything went smoothly with the install and they continue to provide great customer service when we have questions or concerns. They know their stuff and are great to work with. Highly recommended!
Kirsten Burt
Jan 28, 2020
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We've been really happy with Sunlight Solar. Nathan (sales) was very knowledgeable and helpful. The process was a bit long because our roof couldn't support the project as originally planned, but Nathan worked with us to design a new project for our garage roof. It's really exciting to have the panels online finally! With financing, this was an affordable way to make a big environmental impact.