North Carolina has an above-average number of sunny days and, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), it is one of the top-producing solar energy states in the nation. Overall, the cost of solar panels across the country comes down to regional environmental factors, the state’s participation in solar programs and the average use of electricity in each home.
Solar System Size
The size of your solar system directly affects its cost, both for materials and installation. The typical energy consumption in North Carolina is 1,327 kWh, whivh higher than the national average of 889 kWh, also according to the EIA.
The typical North Carolina solar system size averages 7kW, costing an average of $12,400 after you incorporate the Federal Solar Tax Credit. When working with a solar energy broker, you can also investigate ways to lower your energy use and raise the efficiency of your appliances and lighting. You could, for example, research whether a home energy audit is worth it in your home.
Panel Type
The type of solar panel you choose also determines the energy efficiency of the system itself. As is often the case with many home upgrades, the more you pay upfront, the more you could save in the long run. The three main types of solar panels determine their output, longevity and upfront cost.
- Monocrystalline solar panels: These panels cost between $1 and $1.50 per watt and average 20% efficiency and last up to 40 years. Each panel generates 300 to 400 watts.
- Polycrystalline solar panels: Costing between $0.70 and $1 per watt, these panels average 16% efficiency and last around 35 years. The panels generate between 250 and 300 watts each.
- Thin-film solar panels: You’ll pay between $0.60 and $0.70 per watt for these lightweight, malleable panels. They average 14% efficiency and last about 20 years. Each panel generates less than 200 watts each, but this widely varies based on type.
Solar Incentives
The solar tax credits, both federally and in North Carolina, are frequently changing. As we’ve noted before, you will receive a 30% tax credit for panels installed between 2022 and 2032. North Carolina also has property tax exemptions, low-interest loans and an evolving net metering program in the state.
Labor Costs
About 25% of the total cost of solar panels in North Carolina accounts for labor and installation fees. If your 7kW system costs $12,400, about $3,100 will go to the team installing the solar system. Take into account that the size and accessibility of your home will play a large part in this cost, particularly if you install roof panels and the roof is tricky to access.
Installer
Each major solar panel installer in North Carolina competes to offer the best prices. Costs in the long run, however, truly come down to payment plan options, solar panel brands and the longevity of their installation.
Permits
North Carolina only requires a building permit for solar panels when the system costs more than $20,000, according to the North Carolina Office of the State Fire Marshal. In other words, most systems under 8kW will not require a permit fee.
Roof and Mount
The steeper your roof’s pitch, the higher the installation cost of your system will be. Not only is the system harder to install, but you may need more panels to catch the proper amount of rays. You can, however, opt for a range of solar mounts that are either fixed, adjustable or linked to a smart tracking method.
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