The Solar Shakeout Is Here. Here's Who's Still Standing.

  • Thorough Cleaning: Professionals use specialized equipment and non-abrasive cleaning solutions that remove buildup without damaging the glass or underlying technology.
  • Safety First: Climbing onto rooftops to clean panels is dangerous. Experienced technicians know how to clean safely and effectively.
  • Optimized Efficiency: Clean panels absorb more sunlight, directly increasing energy production.

By Infinity Solar USA

The residential solar industry is going through its hardest stretch in a decade. The federal tax credit changes from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, paired with higher interest rates and tighter project financing, have squeezed installers across the country. Some are downsizing. Some are merging. And some — like Medford's Purelight Power, which shut down in December — are gone entirely.


For homeowners who already have solar energy systems on their roof, or who are weighing whether to install them, that's an unsettling backdrop. So let's talk plainly about what's happening and what to look for in a solar company right now.

Why companies are folding

Three things hit the industry at once. Federal incentives that made the math easy for homeowners got pulled back. Interest rates pushed financing costs up just as sales volume came down. And a wave of mergers across the residential solar space — including Purelight's 2025 combination with Solgen Power — left a lot of companies carrying integration costs they couldn't absorb when revenue dropped.



The companies that didn't have strong balance sheets, lean operations, or diversified service offerings are the ones running out of runway.

What survival looks like

The installers still standing in 2026 generally share a few traits. They run lean. They own their installation and solar panel maintenance work rather than subcontracting everything. They've been around long enough to weather a downturn before. And critically, they've built service and maintenance arms that generate steady revenue even when new solar power systems sales slow down.



At Infinity Solar USA, that's exactly the model we've built. We do our own solar panel installation, we service what we sell, and we've expanded our footprint — including a recent expansion across the country in states like Oregon, Washington, Virginia, and Ohio after acquiring Purelight's assets — because we believe in the long-term future of residential solar systems even when the short-term gets bumpy.

What homeowners should look for

If you're shopping for solar right now, or you're an "orphaned" customer of a company that closed, ask these questions before you sign anything:

  • How long has the company been operating, and under what ownership?
  • Do they perform solar panel installation in-house or subcontract?
  • Who honors the workmanship warranty if the manufacturer or installer goes away?
  • Do they have a dedicated service and maintenance team — not just a sales team?
  • Are they licensed in your state and certified through programs like Energy Trust of Oregon, etc.?


Those questions separate the companies built for the next ten years from the ones built for the last boom.

The bottom line

Solar still works. The technology behind today's solar energy systems is better and more affordable than it's ever been, and homeowners everywhere are still seeing real savings even without the federal credit at its old level. What's changed is that the company you choose matters more than ever.



We're hiring, we're expanding, and we're here for the long haul. If you have questions about your existing system or you're thinking about going solar with new residential solar systems, we'd be glad to talk.

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Key Takeaways Solar power systems can help reduce monthly electricity costs. Residential solar systems are designed to match the energy needs of your home. Professional solar panel installation helps ensure safety and long-term performance. Regular maintenance and cleaning help keep solar panels working efficiently. Battery backup systems can provide extra energy security during power outages. Solar energy systems can increase your home's value and support a more sustainable lifestyle. What Are Solar Power Systems? Solar power systems use sunlight to generate electricity for your home. Solar panels collect energy from the sun and convert it into usable electricity that can power your lights, appliances, electronics, and heating and cooling systems. A complete solar power system usually includes: Solar panels Inverters Mounting equipment Electrical wiring Monitoring equipment Optional battery storage Modern solar energy systems are designed to work efficiently throughout the year. Even though Portland experiences cloudy weather, solar panels can still produce energy from daylight. Why More Portland Homeowners Are Choosing Solar Homeowners today want solutions that help them save money while making their homes more efficient. Solar energy offers both benefits. Some of the main reasons people choose solar include: Lower electricity bills Reduced dependence on utility companies Greater energy independence Cleaner energy for the environment Long-term financial savings Increased home value When properly installed and maintained, a solar system can provide benefits for many years. Understanding Residential Solar Systems Residential solar systems are designed specifically for homes. Every home uses energy differently, which is why each system should be customized to meet the homeowner's needs. Custom Solar Solutions Before designing a system, we take the time to understand your home's energy requirements. We look at factors such as: Current electricity usage Roof size and layout Sun exposure Shading around the property Future energy needs This helps us create a system that delivers the best possible performance and value. Grid-Tied Solar Systems Many homeowners choose grid-tied solar systems. These systems remain connected to the utility grid. During the day, your solar panels generate electricity for your home. If your system produces more energy than you need, the extra power can be sent to the grid. When solar production is lower, your home can draw electricity from the utility company. This setup offers convenience and flexibility. Solar Battery Backup Systems Battery storage has become increasingly popular among homeowners who want more control over their energy use. A battery backup system stores excess solar energy so it can be used later. This can be especially useful during power outages or during times when solar production is lower. Benefits of battery storage include: Backup power during outages Better energy management Greater energy independence Reduced reliance on the grid The Solar Panel Installation Process Many homeowners are curious about what happens during a solar panel installation project. At Infinity Solar USA, we make the process simple and straightforward. Initial Consultation The first step is understanding your energy needs and goals. We assess your property and discuss the best options for your home. System Design Once we gather the necessary information, we create a custom design for your solar energy system. The design takes into account: Roof size Energy usage Sunlight exposure Long-term energy goals Professional Installation Our team handles the entire solar panel installation process. We install the panels, connect the electrical components, and ensure everything is working correctly. Safety and quality are always our top priorities. System Activation Once installation is complete and all necessary inspections have been completed, your system is activated and begins generating clean energy for your home. Solar Panel Maintenance Matters Solar panels require very little maintenance, but regular service can help keep your system running at its best. Routine maintenance helps identify small issues before they become bigger problems. Our maintenance services may include: System inspections Performance testing Inverter checks Electrical inspections Monitoring system reviews Regular maintenance helps maximize efficiency and extend the life of your solar energy system. Keeping Solar Panels Clean Over time, dust, dirt, leaves, pollen, and other debris can collect on solar panels. This buildup can reduce the amount of sunlight reaching the panels. Professional solar panel cleaning helps improve system performance and energy production. Benefits of regular cleaning include: Better efficiency Improved energy output Cleaner panel surfaces Longer system life Keeping your panels clean is a simple way to protect your investment. Solar Panel Repair and Replacement Services Solar systems are built to last, but occasional repairs may still be needed. Common reasons for solar panel repair include: Storm damage Electrical issues Damaged wiring Inverter problems Reduced energy production If a component is no longer working properly, our team can identify the issue and recommend the right solution. In some cases, replacing older panels or equipment may be the best option. Solar technology continues to improve, and newer equipment can often provide better performance and efficiency. Benefits of Solar Power Systems for Modern Homes Solar energy offers many benefits that go beyond reducing utility bills. Some of the biggest advantages include: Lower Energy Costs Generating your own electricity can significantly reduce your monthly energy expenses. Energy Independence Solar gives homeowners more control over their energy use and reduces dependence on utility providers. Increased Property Value Many buyers view solar-equipped homes as attractive because of the potential for lower operating costs. Environmental Benefits Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of power that helps reduce carbon emissions. Long-Term Savings A well-designed solar system can continue producing energy for decades, helping homeowners save money over time. Final Thoughts Solar power systems have become a smart choice for homeowners throughout Portland. They offer a practical way to reduce electricity costs, improve energy efficiency, and create a more sustainable home. At Infinity Solar USA, we are committed to helping homeowners get the most from their investment in solar energy. From solar panel installation to maintenance, cleaning, repair, replacement, and battery backup solutions, we provide complete support every step of the way. If you are ready to take control of your energy future, solar may be one of the best investments you can make for your home. Get Started With Infinity Solar USA If you are considering solar for your Portland home, our team is here to help. We provide customized residential solar systems, professional solar panel installation, and ongoing support to ensure your system performs at its best. Contact Infinity Solar USA at +1-800-818-0598 today to learn more about our solar energy solutions and discover how solar can help you save money while powering your home with clean energy.
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