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6 best solar companies in Charlotte, North Carolina
Josephine NesbitHome improvement writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Jun 22, 2024
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We've ranked the top 6 solar companies that operate within 50 miles of Charlotte. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
High-quality solar panel installation in Charlotte, North Carolina requires you to hire a solar installer with the right certification, expertise and experience. We've assembled a list of top solar companies in Charlotte to help you choose the perfect installer.
Prior to picking an installer, ask others for suggestions, vet potential companies and request multiple quotes to find the best company for your needs. You can look for a local solar company in Charlotte or pick a well-known national brand.
- Extends 25-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Provides solar panel and battery installation
- Offers comprehensive financing
While installing solar panels requires a substantial initial investment, it can decrease your energy bills over time. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows that transitioning to solar energy allows Charlotte homeowners to save an average of $1,200 annually.
The products from different solar technicians aren't all the same. Make sure to compare companies and get quotes before you book your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Charlotte
When looking into Charlotte solar companies, find those with a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, in addition to a good reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Read through reviews to understand other homeowners’ experiences with a company, and watch for consistent bad reviews.
Sun Service Specialists
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Renewable Energy Group
Services offered
Highlights
- Reliable customer support
- Free quotes
- Informative resources
Solar Boy Energy
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Freedom Solar Power - Charlotte Solar Panel Installers
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
2233 Interstate N Dr Suite F, Charlotte, NC 28206
(704) 727-8088
freedomsolarpower.com/locations/charl...
TayCo Electric & Solar Inc.
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Thompson & Son Energy Solutions
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Charlotte?
Even areas with changing sun amounts, including rainier and cloudier places such as Charlotte, can still see the benefits of solar panels. Key reasons to switch to solar are:
- Save on energy bills: Adopting solar energy enables you to cut your electricity bills. The power generated by solar panels replaces electricity that would otherwise be purchased from utility providers.
- Reduce environmental impact: Switching to solar reduces your carbon footprint by decreasing the use of fossil fuels that would be needed to power your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that electricity production is one of the primary drivers of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Charge an electric vehicle: With a solar panel system, you can charge electric vehicles right from your home. Using your own solar power is the best method to ensure your electric car is fueled with clean, renewable energy.
Facts about Charlotte
Monthly Energy Spending Per Capita
Clear Sky Days Per Year
Annual Solar Savings Per kW
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Charlotte?
Based on our survey carried out in October 2023, the average national cost of solar panel installation is $11,743.
The price of installing solar panels varies based on several elements, including your location, sunlight access, roof direction, shading, system size and labor. Be prepared to pay extra if you pick any accessories like animal guards, solar trackers or batteries.
In Charlotte, solar panel installation costs around $16,767, per data from the EIA, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and NASA.
How much can you save by going solar in Charlotte?
Although installing solar panels requires a substantial investment to start, you can see considerable savings on your energy bills down the line.
Money savings in Charlotte from going solar
In Charlotte, you can expect to save money once you've fully switched to solar. But it takes time to recover the upfront costs, and factors like precipitation and tree coverage impact how soon you'll get a return on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The payback period refers to the time it takes a solar system to earn back its initial cost. According to our analysis of data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA, the average payback period for solar installations in Charlotte is 13 years.
- Annual solar savings in Charlotte: On average, Charlotte homeowners can save $1,232 per year by adopting solar energy, according to our calculations based on data from NASA, the EIA and the Department of Energy.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: After transitioning completely to solar power, you can anticipate savings of around $18,668 over 25 years, according to our calculations from NASA and the EIA.
Energy savings in Charlotte from going solar
Transitioning to solar not only saves money but also decreases your carbon emissions and environmental footprint. Our calculations using NASA and EPA data show the estimated CO2 emission reductions attainable by going solar.
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Charlotte?
Several solar incentives are offered to Charlotte homeowners. Various programs are open to all North Carolina residents, whereas others differ by municipality, city and utility company.
Here are solar incentives available to North Carolina residents, as listed by DSIRE.
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Rebate Program Duke Energy - NC Solar Rebate Program | Residential: $0.60/W-AC Nonresidential: $0.50/W-AC Nonprofit: $0.75/W-AC |
Property Tax Incentive Property Tax Abatement for Solar Electric Systems | Residential systems: 100% of the appraised value All other systems: 80% of the appraised value |
Property Tax Incentive Active Solar Heating and Cooling Systems Exemption | No more than conventional equipment |
Rebate Program EnergyUnited (Electric) Residential Energy Efficiency Program | Heat Pumps (15 SEER): $150/unit Heat Pumps (16 SEER): $300/unit |
Rebate Program Duke Energy (Electric) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Central Air Conditioning or Heat Pump: $300 - $400 + $50 with added smart thermostat Geothermal Heat Pump: $400 + $50 with added smart thermostat Heat Pump Water Heater: $350 Attic Insulation or Attic Air Sealing: $250 Duct Sealing: $100 Variable-Speed Pool Pumps: $300 |
Performance-Based Incentive NC GreenPower Production Incentive | Varies by technology and system size PV larger than 5 kW: must enter bid process Wind up to 10 kW: $0.09/kWh Wind larger than 10 kW: must enter bid process |
Loan Program Local Option - Financing Program for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency | See Website |
Green Building Incentive Local Option - Green Building Incentives | Authorized by legislation for green buildings. Actual permit process to be determined by local government. |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels. |
What are common factors to consider before hiring a Charlotte solar installer?
Before choosing a solar panel installation expert, evaluate these key considerations.
What size system do you need?
The size of your system is determined by your household’s energy consumption and the solar panel system's production ratio. Larger households often consume more energy and may require a larger system. If the system isn’t large enough, it may lack enough energy to power your entire house.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Required permits and local or state codes could affect your solar project. Be sure to obtain necessary permits through your local building department and book an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all homes have the same amount of sun. Local tree coverage, rain conditions and extreme weather can affect sunlight access. If your property doesn’t get adequate sunlight, then you may need more panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
To store additional energy, many panel systems include a solar battery. This feature is essential in cloudy conditions and helps to mitigate power loss. However, using battery storage can result in higher setup expenses.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You have choices among solar panel types, as they vary in design, efficiency and life expectancy. These elements can change the cost, how soon you'll need to swap panels and space used on your roof.
Our methodology for selecting solar companies
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
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