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10 best solar companies in Clayton, 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 10 solar companies that operate within 50 miles of Clayton. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
To complete a high-quality solar panel installation in Clayton, North Carolina, you'll need to find a certified, skilled and experienced solar installer. We've assembled a list of the top solar companies in Clayton to help you select the right one.
Before choosing an installer, ask others for recommendations, screen potential installers and request multiple quotes to find the ideal company for your requirements. You can find a local solar company in Clayton or pick an established national brand.
- Extends 25-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Provides solar panel and battery installation
- Offers comprehensive financing
Although solar panels are a big upfront investment, you can cut your energy bills over the long term. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that transitioning to solar energy lets Clayton homeowners to save about $1,400 per year.
Solar companies do not all have identical services and products. You should compare different companies and get quotes before arranging your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Clayton
When looking into Clayton solar companies, search for those with a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, as well as a positive reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Reading through previous customer reviews will give you a sense of how other homeowners viewed the company, so be wary if you see a pattern of negative reviews.
Top Tier Solar Solutions
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
NC Solar Now
Services offered
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- Clear pricing policy
8MSolar
Services offered
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- Clear pricing policy
Noon Solar
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- Clear pricing policy
Emerald Energy
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- Clear pricing policy
Yes Solar Solutions
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- Clear pricing policy
Southern Energy Management
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- Clear pricing policy
Wiring Solutions Plus LLC
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- Clear pricing policy
Jim's Solarguard
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- Clear pricing policy
Just One Solar
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- Clear pricing policy
More providers
Below are additional solar installation companies that didn’t make our top picks based on their distance, ratings or service offerings.
Freedom Solar Power - Raleigh Solar Panel Installers
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Clayton?
Clayton and the nearby areas receive plenty of sunlight, which allows homeowners to take advantage of solar energy. Here are the biggest reasons for going solar:
- Reduce environmental impact: Transitioning to solar decreases your carbon footprint by preserving fossil fuels that would otherwise be utilized to power your house. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) indicates that generating electricity is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Save on energy bills: Moving to solar enables you to decrease your energy bills. Electricity from solar panels replaces the utility-supplied power you'd normally buy.
- 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 guarantee your electric car is running on clean, renewable energy.
Facts about Clayton
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 Clayton?
Our survey from October 2023 found that the national average price of solar panel installation is $11,743.
The cost of solar panel installation is influenced by your area, shading, sunlight availability, roof orientation, labor costs and system size. Choosing bonus features such as solar trackers, batteries or animal guards will increase the overall cost.
According to numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), NASA and the EIA, solar panel installation in Clayton has a typical cost of $17,166.
How much can you save by going solar in Clayton?
While solar panel installation can be a big initial cost, you are positioned to see substantial savings on your electricity costs over time.
Money savings in Clayton from going solar
After fully switching to solar power, Clayton homeowners usually see cost savings. However, recovering the initial investment requires time, and things like rain and tree shade affect the timeline for realizing returns on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The average payback period is the time it takes for a solar energy system to recoup its initial cost. The payback period in Clayton is approximately 12 years, according to our calculations, which are based on data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA.
- Annual solar savings in Clayton: On average, Clayton homeowners can save $1,357 per year by adopting solar energy, according to our calculations based on data from the EIA, the Department of Energy and NASA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Over 25 years, you can expect to save $21,504 after switching fully to solar, according to our calculations based on data from NASA and the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Energy savings in Clayton from going solar
In addition to monetary savings, switching to solar energy decreases your carbon footprint and environmental impact. We've calculated the estimated CO2 emission reductions you can realize by going solar based on data from NASA and the EPA.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 62 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 1550 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Clayton?
There are a number of solar incentives open to homeowners in Clayton. Various programs are applicable to all North Carolina residents, while others are based on your city, municipality and utility company.
Per the DSIRE, here are the solar incentives available for North Carolina residents:
| 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 |
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. |
Rebate Program Duke Energy Progress - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Central A/C or Heat Pump: $300 - $400 + 50 with smart thermostat Geothermal Heat Pumps: $400 + 50 with smart thermostat Heat Pump Water Heater: $350 Attic Insulation & Air Sealing: $250 Duct Sealing: $100 Pool Pump: $300 |
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 Clayton solar installer?
Consider these key points before hiring a solar panel installation professional.
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 typically use more energy and may require a larger system. If the system isn’t big enough, it may not produce enough energy to power your entire house.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar plans may be impacted by specific permits and state or local rules. You must secure proper permits through your local building department and schedule an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all homes receive the same amount of sunlight. Trees, rainfall and severe weather conditions in your area can impact sunlight access. If your home doesn’t get enough sunlight, then you may require more panels with more wattage capacity.
Do you need a solar battery?
Numerous solar panel systems provide a battery. Solar batteries hold extra power, which is especially useful when you want to avoid power loss when there's no sunshine. Adding battery storage might affect the cost of installation.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You can choose from several types of solar panels, each differing in design, efficiency and life expectancy. These factors not only influence the price, but also how quickly you’ll need to replace panels and the amount of space the panels take up 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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