Key insights
New net metering rules changed how many utility companies compensate residents for sending extra solar power into their local grid.
Jump to insightA typical residential solar panel installation costs $34,482 in North Carolina.
Jump to insightEligible borrowers may be able to finance solar panels and other energy upgrades through FHA or VA mortgage programs.
Jump to insightSolar property tax abatement in North Carolina
North Carolina excludes at least 80% of a solar system’s value from property taxes. For most homeowners, though, residential solar panels may be fully exempt as long as they aren’t used for business or to generate income.
» RELATED: Will solar panels increase the value of your house?
Solar panel loan programs in North Carolina
Solar eligibility, borrowing limits and other requirements vary by program and lender.
- Piedmont Electric Cooperative has subsidized solar loans up to $30,000 and repayment terms up to 10 years.
- South River EMC offers an energy efficiency loan program through Electel Cooperative Federal Credit Union with amounts up to $35,000 and repayment terms up to 10 years.
Federal mortgage options for solar panels
Some mortgage programs let eligible borrowers include solar panels or other energy upgrades in a home purchase or refinance loan.
- FHA Energy Efficient Mortgages may cover qualifying energy upgrades. A home energy assessment is required. Separate rules apply to solar and wind systems.
- VA Energy Efficient Mortgages let eligible borrowers add up to $6,000 in approved upgrades. Projects over $3,000 must show enough energy savings to offset the added mortgage cost.
Additional solar incentives in North Carolina
The state of North Carolina offers additional solar incentive programs that may be worth looking into.
| Amount | Eligible solar equipment | Applicable sectors | Administrator | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solar Water Heating Rebate Program | $200 | Solar water heat | Residential | South River EMC |
| Residential Energy Efficiency Loan Program | Up to $35,000 | Solar water heat | Residential, multifamily residential | Lumbee River Electric Membership Corporation |
| Active Solar Heating and Cooling Systems Property Tax Exemption | Varies | Solar water heat, solar space heat | Residential, commercial, industrial | North Carolina Solar Center |
What to know about net metering in North Carolina
Duke Energy’s old net metering program (Rider NM) closed to new applications on Sept. 30, 2023. New solar customers can use Net Metering Bridge (Rider NMB), when available, or Residential Solar Choice (Rider RSC).
Policies vary by utility. Check with your electricity provider for current rates and requirements.
Both programs have a minimum monthly bill and pay an avoided-cost-based rate for any excess electricity left over at the end of the month. NMB lets customers stay on a standard residential rate, while RSC requires time-of-use and critical peak pricing.
NMB has limited enrollment, but eligible customers can stay on it for up to 15 years. Existing Rider NM customers can keep their current plan through Dec. 31, 2026, then automatically move to NMB. These changes may reduce solar savings compared with Duke’s old net metering rules.
How much are solar panels in North Carolina?
Solar panel costs in North Carolina typically range from $12,150 to $24,300. On the high end, Giovanna in Hubert told us they spent $45,000 going solar, and Sam in Marion paid $73,000.
Your system size greatly affects how much you pay overall. The typical system size for solar systems in North Carolina is 14.19 kW. You might need a larger or smaller system, depending on your average household energy usage.
Average solar cost by system size in North Carolina
| 5 kW | 6 kW | 7 kW | 8 kW | 9 kW | 10 kW | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Statewide | $12,150 | $14,580 | $17,010 | $19,440 | $21,870 | $24,300 |
| Charlotte | $11,800 | $14,160 | $16,520 | $18,880 | $21,240 | $23,600 |
| Raleigh | $12,250 | $14,700 | $17,150 | $19,600 | $22,050 | $24,500 |
| Fayetteville | $12,100 | $14,520 | $16,940 | $19,360 | $21,780 | $24,200 |
Find solar companies in North Carolina
A good solar company helps you navigate local incentives, permitting and net metering policies. Compare our picks for North Carolina’s top solar companies to learn more.
| Company | Customer rating | Pro install | Max panel efficiency | Panel warranty | Payment options | Year founded | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Blue Raven Solar | Learn More | 3.0 |  | Varies | 25 years | Cash, loan, lease, PPA | 2014 |
 Palmetto Solar | Learn More | 1.2 | | Varies | 25 years | Cash, loan, lease | 2015 |
 Green Home Systems | Learn More | 1.0 | | 20% | 25 years | Cash, loan | 2017 |
 ShopSolar | Learn More | 4.3 |  | Varies | Varies | Cash, loan | 2018 |
FAQ
How much can I save with solar panels in North Carolina?
On average, North Carolina homeowners with solar panels avoid $45,388 in utility costs over 25 years. Even if you don’t generate 100% of your energy needs, you can still save a lot of money compared with traditional utility bills. In North Carolina, solar panels usually pay for themselves within 11.9 years.
» EXPLORE: Where solar savings go the furthest
Can I get free solar panels in North Carolina?
No, but you can lease with little to no upfront costs. Solar leases generally require a flat monthly fee.
» FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?
How do I know if my house is a good candidate for solar?
It’s best to have plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west for optimal sun exposure. It’s also smart to upgrade any old, inefficient appliances first. Reducing your electrical loads now means you can get a smaller system, which will be cheaper.
The condition of your roof matters too — if it needs replacement soon, do that before installing solar panels. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This will cost around $5,000 for a 19-panel setup.
Solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies, more commonly known as solar panels, absorb sunlight and convert it into usable electricity. If you have a lot of shading around your house, they might not get enough sun to power your home.
Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?
North Carolina law generally prevents HOAs from completely prohibiting residential solar panels. However, HOAs can regulate where panels are installed and may restrict them in certain visible locations.
What has North Carolina’s investment in solar been so far?
Total solar investments in the state amount to $15.3 billion, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association.
Bottom line
Before any incentives, a typical residential solar panel system costs $12,150 to $24,300 in North Carolina. Residents can take advantage of local incentives and federal loan programs.
The ConsumerAffairs Research Team conducted an in-depth analysis to determine the average costs of going solar and incentives in other states. Turns out, it’s worth it for many homeowners, particularly in North Carolina.
Solar costs vs. savings: North Carolina and nearby states
| 6-kW system cost (before incentives) | 10-kW system cost (before incentives) | Typical system size needed* | Average cost per watt | Total utility power cost savings** | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | $15,000 | $25,000 | 12.97 kW | $2.50 | $45,038 |
| North Carolina | $14,580 | $24,300 | 14.19 kW | $2.43 | $45,388 |
| South Carolina | $15,600 | $26,000 | 14.24 kW | $2.60 | $51,366 |
| Tennessee | $21,180 | $35,300 | 13.92 kW | $3.53 | $39,124 |
| Virginia | $15,240 | $25,400 | 13.94 kW | $2.54 | $46,993 |
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- DSIRE, "North Carolina Programs." Accessed July 27, 2026
- Piedmont Electric Cooperative, "Home Upgrade Loans." Accessed July 27, 2026.
- South River EMC, "Rebates & Efficiency Tips." Accessed July 27, 2026.
- Public Staff, North Carolina Utilities Commission, " Net Metering." Accessed July 27, 2026.
- Dominion Energy, "Net Metering." Accessed July 27, 2026.
- Duke Energy, "Rates Overview." Accessed July 27, 2026.
- North Carolina General Assembly, "Senate Bill 670." Accessed July 27, 2026.
- Solar Energy Industries Association, "North Carolina Solar." Accessed July 27, 2026.
