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7 best solar companies in Gastonia, 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 7 solar companies that operate within 50 miles of Gastonia. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
To perform a high-quality solar panel installation in Gastonia, North Carolina, you'll need a properly certified, skilled and experienced solar installer. We've compiled a list of the best solar companies in Gastonia to help you find the right one.
Prior to selecting an installer, request referrals from others, evaluate potential companies and collect multiple quotes to identify the right company for your requirements. You can choose a local solar company in Gastonia or pick a well-known national brand.
- Extends 25-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Provides solar panel and battery installation
- Offers comprehensive financing
While 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 switching to solar energy enables Gastonia homeowners to save about $1,300 per year.
Not every solar company provides the same offerings. Prior to booking your solar panel installation, compare different companies' offerings and get quotes from each.
Find the top solar company for you in Gastonia
When researching Gastonia solar companies, search for those with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, in addition to 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.
Sun Service Specialists
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Renewable Energy Group
Services offered
Highlights
- Reliable customer support
- Informative resources
- Free quotes
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...
Solar Boy Energy
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
TayCo Electric & Solar Inc.
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Thompson & Son Energy Solutions
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
EMPWR Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Informative resources
- Reliable customer support
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Gastonia?
Homeowners in Gastonia can benefit from solar energy since the area gets plenty of sunshine. The main reasons to opt for solar include these:
- Save on energy bills: Switching to solar can help decrease your electricity expenses. Solar panel systems use power to replace the electricity you would have otherwise bought from the utility company.
- Reduce environmental impact: Going with solar panels reduces your carbon footprint by saving fossil fuels that would otherwise be consumed to power your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), power generation is one of the top contributors to 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 optimal method to ensure your electric car is fueled with clean, renewable energy.
Facts about Gastonia
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 Gastonia?
Based on a survey we did in October 2023, the median cost of upgrading to solar panels across the country is $11,743.
The cost of solar panel installation is influenced by your area, shading, roof orientation, labor costs, system size and sunlight availability. Selecting extras such as batteries, solar trackers or animal guards will increase the overall cost.
According to numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the EIA and NASA, solar panel installation in Gastonia has an average cost of $16,736.
How much can you save by going solar in Gastonia?
Solar panel installation is a substantial initial investment, but you can expect to see big savings reflected in your energy bills after some time.
Money savings in Gastonia from going solar
In Gastonia, you can expect to save money once you've transitioned fully to solar. But it takes time to recover the upfront costs, and factors like precipitation and tree coverage influence 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 Gastonia is 12 years.
- Annual solar savings in Gastonia: Based on numbers that leverage data from NASA, the EIA and the Department of Energy, Gastonia homeowners save around $1,299 annually with solar energy.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: After transitioning completely to solar power, you can expect to save about $20,368 over 25 years, according to our calculations from the EIA and NASA.
Energy savings in Gastonia 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 projected CO2 emission reductions achievable by going solar.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 63 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 1575 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Gastonia?
Homeowners in Gastonia can enjoy several solar incentives. Some are available statewide for all North Carolina residents, and others differ by your utility company, city and municipality.
Here are solar incentives accessible for North Carolina residents, according to 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 Gastonia solar installer?
When selecting a solar panel installation professional, first review these important questions.
What size system do you need?
Your household's energy use and the solar system's production ratio dictate the appropriate panel system size for you. More expansive homes tend to use more power and will potentially need larger solar installations. An undersized system could lead to inadequate energy generation to completely power your home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar installation project could be subject to applicable codes and permit requirements by your state. You'll need to obtain the required permits from your local building department, as well as schedule an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all residences get equal amounts of sunlight. Area tree cover, rain levels and harsh weather can impact solar reception. If your home doesn't get enough sun, it may require additional panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
To store additional energy, many panel systems include a solar battery. This feature becomes critical during storms and helps to prevent power loss. However, using battery storage may lead to increased overall installation expenses.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You have options among solar panel types, as they vary in design, life expectancy and efficiency. These elements affect cost, how soon you'll need to swap panels and the amount of roof area you'll need.
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.
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics. Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Go back to top
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