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10 best solar companies in Sanford, 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 Sanford. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
Top-quality solar panel installation in Sanford, North Carolina, requires you to hire a solar technician that is properly certified, qualified and experienced. To help your search for the best possible installer, we've compiled a list of the top solar companies in Sanford.
Prior to hiring an installer, ask others for recommendations, vet potential installers and get multiple quotes to identify the ideal company for you. You can go with a local Sanford solar company or select an established national brand.
- Extends 25-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Provides solar panel and battery installation
- Offers comprehensive financing
Although solar panels are a significant upfront investment, you can cut your energy bills over the long run. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows that switching to solar energy enables Sanford homeowners to save approximately $1,400 per year.
The products from different solar technicians vary. Be sure to compare companies and get quotes before you set up your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Sanford
Look for Sanford solar companies that have a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars in customer ratings on Google Reviews and similar review platforms. The company should also have a good rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Reviewing previous customer testimonials can provide insight into other homeowners' experiences dealing with the solar company. Frequent poor reviews are worth noting as a possible warning sign.
Yes Solar Solutions
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Southern Energy Management
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
NC Solar Now
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
8MSolar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Top Tier Solar Solutions
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Carolina Connections Solar Energy - North Carolina Installation & Sales
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Jim's Solarguard
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Emerald Energy
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Noon Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Freedom Solar Power - Raleigh Solar Panel Installers
Services offered
Highlights
- 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.
Just One Solar
Balex Electrical Company, LLC
Wiring Solutions Plus LLC
Renu Energy Solutions
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Sanford?
Places with varied sunshine levels, including rainy or cloudy areas like Sanford, can still benefit from solar power. The top reasons to switch to solar power are:
- Reduce environmental impact: Switching to solar reduces your carbon footprint by minimizing 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 largest drivers of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Charge an electric vehicle: You have the ability to power electric vehicles at home using solar panels. This provides the greatest assurance that your electric car is powered by clean, renewable energy.
- Save on energy bills: Transitioning to solar enables you to decrease your energy bills. Electricity from solar panels replaces the utility-supplied power you'd normally buy.
Facts about Sanford
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 Sanford?
According to the results of our survey done in October 2023, the median cost for solar panel installation nationally is $11,743.
What you'll pay to install solar panels depends on factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof alignment, shading, system size and labor. The cost goes up if you pick any extras like batteries, solar trackers or animal guards.
Based on data from the EIA, NASA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), installing solar panels in Sanford typically costs $17,056.
How much can you save by going solar in Sanford?
While solar panel installation might be a sizable initial cost, you are positioned to see significant savings on your electricity costs over time.
Money savings in Sanford from going solar
In Sanford, you can anticipate saving money once you've fully switched to solar. But it takes time to make back 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 average payback period is the time it takes for a solar energy system to recover its initial cost. The payback period in Sanford is around 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 Sanford: Sanford homeowners can anticipate saving around $1,384 annually on average by adopting solar power, according to our analysis of data from the Department of Energy, the EIA and NASA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Based on our data from the EIA and NASA, if you make the full switch to solar energy, you can expect to save approximately $22,258 over a 25-year period.
Energy savings in Sanford from going solar
Adopting 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 achievable by going solar.
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Sanford?
Sanford homeowners can take advantage of various solar incentives. Particular programs are available statewide to all North Carolina residents, whereas others vary based on city, utility company and municipality.
Here are solar incentives offered 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 |
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 Sanford solar installer?
Before choosing a professional solar panel installation company, reflect on these important questions.
What size system do you need?
Your household's energy use and the solar system's production ratio determine the appropriate panel system size for you. Larger residences tend to use more power and will potentially need more extensive solar setups. An undersized system could lead to inadequate energy generation to fully power your home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar installation project could be subject to the necessary codes and permits by your state. You'll need to apply for 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 levels of sunlight. The tree density, precipitation levels and severe weather can impact sunlight amounts. If your home doesn't get sufficient sun, it may require extra panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
Many solar panel systems include a solar battery. Solar batteries preserve extra energy, which can be crucial for avoiding outages during storms. Opting for battery storage could raise the overall expense.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You have options among solar panel types, as they differ in design, efficiency and life expectancy. These elements influence cost, when 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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