Solar Companies in North Carolina

North Carolina is the second-largest solar state by installed capacity, trailing only California, though most of that capacity is utility-scale rather than residential. The state averages about 4.7 peak sun hours per day and has a temperate climate well-suited for solar. Duke Energy Carolinas and Duke Energy Progress are the dominant utilities, and both offer net metering at the full retail rate along with various solar rebate and incentive programs.

The state's solar boom was originally driven by a generous 35% state tax credit that expired in 2015. While no state tax credit currently exists, the combination of the federal credit, net metering, property tax exemption, and Duke Energy's incentive programs keeps the residential market active. North Carolina's electricity rates average about $0.12/kWh, which is below the national average, extending payback periods compared to high-rate northeastern states.

Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham, Greensboro, and Wilmington are the primary residential markets. A typical 6kW system costs about $12,600 after the federal credit, with payback periods of 8-11 years. The Research Triangle area (Raleigh-Durham) has seen particularly strong adoption driven by the region's tech-oriented population. North Carolina's solar manufacturing sector is also significant, with several panel and component factories operating in the state, supporting local jobs and supply chains.