Solar in North Carolina

Key Solar Metrics

Avg Electricity Rate

14.0¢/kWh

Solar Production Potential

5.3 peak sun hours

Annual Production

949 kWh/kW

Net Metering

Net Billing

Incentive Programs

5 active programs

Top Incentive

North Carolina Property Tax Exemption for Solar

Permitting

Mixed

Major Utilities

Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC

Solar Landscape in North Carolina

North Carolina's electricity market includes both investor-owned utilities and cooperative/municipal providers. Major utilities with solar programs include Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC. Residential customers should check with their specific utility provider for available solar incentive programs, interconnection requirements, and export credit rates.

Permitting

North Carolina follows local jurisdiction permitting for residential solar installations. Permitting requirements and timelines vary by county and municipality. Homeowners should contact their local building department for specific permit requirements, fees, and inspection schedules. Some jurisdictions in North Carolina have adopted streamlined solar permitting processes to reduce installation timelines.

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Solar Incentives & Rebates

Some incentive data is provisional and subject to verification. Programs may change — check official sources before making decisions.

State Programs

North Carolina Property Tax Exemption for Solar

80% of the appraised value of solar energy systems is exempt from property tax for residential systems.

TPO Eligible

North Carolina Net Metering (Net Billing Transition)

NC transitioned to net billing under HB 589. Duke Energy customers receive avoided cost credits for excess generation rather than full retail credits.

North Carolina Solar Access Law

North Carolina protects solar easements and restricts HOA prohibition of solar installations. GS 22B-20 through 22B-25 establish solar access rights.

North Carolina Interconnection Standards

NCUC interconnection rules for distributed generation. Simplified process for residential systems under 20 kW.

Provisional

Utility Programs

Duke Energy PowerPair Solar + Battery Rebate

Duke Energy PowerPair: $0.36/W-AC for solar (max 10 kW = $3,600) + $400/kWh for battery (max 13.5 kWh = $5,400). Total up to $9,000. Requires simultaneous solar+battery. Duke Energy Progress territory at capacity.

Per WattTPO Eligible

$0.00/W

North Carolina Net Billing (HB 589)

Policy Type: Net Billing
Credit Type: Avoided Cost
Annual Credit Rollover: No
Effective Date: January 1, 2018

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Run the Numbers for North Carolina

Solar in North Carolina costs $2.31–$3.57 per watt

National average: $3.36/W

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