What happened to the federal solar tax credit?
The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) previously let homeowners deduct 30% of installation costs from their federal taxes. It was phased out with the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA) in 2025.
Homeowners who installed solar systems before the deadline may still claim the credit, but systems installed in 2026 or later no longer qualify.
What to know about net metering in West Virginia
Net metering lets homeowners with solar panels use the electricity their system produces first. If the system generates more power than the home needs, the excess is sent to the grid in exchange for credits on the homeowner’s utility bill.
As of publishing, excess electricity is typically credited at the retail electricity rate, and unused credits roll over indefinitely instead of expiring each year. However, it is possible that changes in 2026.
Solar panel costs in West Virginia
Average solar panel costs in West Virginia generally start between $15,477 and $30,955.
System size is one of the biggest factors affecting the cost of going solar. Your total price also depends on whether you add battery storage to your system. Solar batteries cost $7,000 to $18,000, which can double your total system’s price tag.
Average solar panel costs by system size in West Virginia
| 5 kW | 6 kW | 7 kW | 8 kW | 9 kW | 10 kW | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Statewide average | $15,477 | $18,573 | $21,668 | $24,764 | $27,859 | $30,955 |
Federal solar loan programs
Energy Efficient Mortgages allow homeowners to finance energy-saving upgrades, including solar systems, as part of their mortgage, often with support from federal programs like FHA or VA.
Types of Energy Efficient Mortgages
- FHA Energy Efficient Mortgages are available to many homebuyers. This lets you add money to your mortgage for energy upgrades. The upgrade cost must be less than the expected energy savings, and it requires a home energy assessment first.
- VA Energy Efficient Mortgages are only for military members, veterans and reservists. This lets you add up to $6,000 if energy savings justify the cost.
- Conventional Energy Efficient Mortgages are offered by private lenders (not government-backed). You can borrow up to 15% of a home’s value for energy upgrades. This may help borrowers qualify by adjusting debt-to-income rules.
Compare solar companies in West Virginia
Working with a local solar company in West Virginia makes it easier to understand local incentives.
| Company | Customer rating | Professional install | Max. panel efficiency | Panel warranty | Payment options | Year founded | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Cenvar Roofing & Solar | Learn More | 5.0 |  | 22.2% | Cash, loan | 2012 | |
 Freedom Forever | Learn More | 3.8 | | Varies | 25 years | Cash, loan, lease | 2011 |
 ION Solar | Learn More | 4.2 | | 21.9% | 30 years | Cash, loan | 2013 |
FAQ
Can I get free solar panels in West Virginia?
There are no programs for free solar panels in West Virginia, but you can lease solar equipment or enter a power purchase agreement (PPA) with minimal or no upfront costs. Still, neither is totally free. Solar leases generally require a flat monthly fee; PPAs make you pay per unit of electricity.
» FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?
How can I pay for solar panels?
You can pay cash, but most people finance solar panels with a solar loan. It works a lot like any other type of loan — there’s an application and approval process, and you pay it back over time (with interest). You also have the option of getting a lease or power purchase agreement.
» SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy
Are there any incentives for homeowners to add solar storage batteries in West Virginia?
No, West Virginia doesn't have any residential incentives for battery storage.
» EXPLORE: Solar incentives by state
Are solar panels worth it in West Virginia?
Going solar is often worth it for many West Virginia homeowners for the long-term savings on utility bills. Over 25 years, residents with solar panels avoid $63,643 in utility costs on average.
Your current electric bill is the starting point for assessing the financial benefits of transitioning to solar energy. Your average energy consumption tells you what size solar system you need. Once you know this, you can figure out potential savings and how long it should take for your solar installation to pay for itself.
» COMPARE: Best solar companies
Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?
Yes. West Virginia Code 36-4-19 states that homeowners associations (HOAs) can implement reasonable restrictions but can’t stop solar installation. HOA regulations also must not keep the system from functioning well.
Is my house a good candidate for solar?
Solar panels work best on large, unshaded roofs that face south or west. We suggest using NREL’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house. Project Sunroof is a reliable online solar savings estimator.
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.
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, "West Virginia Programs." Accessed March 4, 2026.
- ENERGY STAR, “Energy Efficient Mortgages.” Accessed March 4, 2026.
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, "Energy Efficient Mortgages." Accessed March 12, 2026.
