Solar Blog

Solar leasing: another way to go solar
Available in Oregon for qualifying homeowners in eligible utility areas. (Live in Washington? Learn about leasing options in WA State.) Buying solar isn’t the only way to put solar on your home. With a solar lease, A&R Solar designs and installs your system, while a third-party provider owns the equipment.

Northwest Wildfires and Smoke: What They Mean for Your Solar
Summer in the Pacific Northwest now brings not just sun, but also the possibility of intense wildfire smoke.

Tired of Gig Harbor Power Outages? Solar + Battery Storage Helps
Gig Harbor homeowners: solar + battery storage keeps your lights on when storms knock out power. Honest answers from A&R Solar, installing since 2007.

Is Solar Worth It If You Have Puget Sound Energy?
PSE rates are up 30%+ since 2023 — and more increases are filed. Here’s what Washington homeowners need to know before going solar.

Understanding Your Electric Bill: Where Solar Saves You the Most
Washington and Oregon homeowners: learn how to read your electric bill and see exactly where solar reduces your costs — before you get a quote.

Energy Saving Tips for 2026: Cut Bills Without Overcomplicating Your Home
Use these practical energy saving tips to reduce utility bills in 2026. Learn how thermostat settings, phantom loads, insulation, smart plugs, and solar can help Washington and Oregon homeowners save energy.

How Solar Power Fuels the Future for Bellevue’s Youth
Boys & Girls Club solar array TL;DR The Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue partnered with A&R Solar to install a 94 kW solar array at their 100th Ave NE fac…

What Is the Solar Payback Period? How to Calculate Solar ROI
Learn how the solar payback period works, what affects your break-even timeline, and why Washington and Oregon homeowners should look beyond payback alone.

Solar Home Value in Washington and Oregon
TL;DR Solar can be an attractive feature for homebuyers in the Pacific Northwest, but it doesn’t automatically translate into a dollar-for-dollar increa…

Understanding Your Electric Bill: Where Solar Saves You the Most
TL;DR Your electric bill is more than just a dollar amount—it’s a map of how and when your home uses energy. By understanding the key line items and patterns on your bill, you can see where solar is most likely to make a difference for a typical PNW household. Intro
Let's Talk Solar
Get honest answers and a no-pressure quote from A&R Solar’s team of experts.