North Carolina Solar Calculator — 2026 Costs & Payback
North Carolina has Duke Energy serving most of the state with full retail-rate net metering retained through 2025/26 and ongoing into 2027. Combined with property tax exclusion and decent irradiance (1,410 kWh/kW), NC offers solid 9–11 year payback for typical residential systems.
US Solar Payback Calculator — 2026
Get an accurate solar payback estimate for your state using NREL solar irradiance, EIA electricity rates, and the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit.
The numbers above are based on state averages. Real quotes vary by roof orientation, shading, panel type, and installer. Compare quotes from 3+ pre-vetted installers in your area — free, no obligation.
Highest electricity rates in the lower 48. NEM 3.0 (since April 2023) cuts export rates ~75%. Battery storage now near-mandatory for payback.
Methodology & sources
Solar irradiance per state: National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) PVWatts PSM3 typical-year data, weighted state average for residential rooftops.
Electricity rates: EIA Form 826 monthly residential rates (most recent September 2025 data).
Federal ITC: 30% through 2032 under the Inflation Reduction Act (Section 25D).
State incentives: DSIRE (Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency) as of April 2026.
Inflation assumptions: 2.5% annual electricity price increase (EIA AEO 2024 reference case), 0.5% annual panel degradation (NREL standard).
Self-consumption assumption: 45% direct self-consumption without battery — typical for residential without storage.
Deep dive — solar in North Carolina
Property tax exclusion: 80% of the added home value from a residential solar system is excluded from property tax assessment.
No state tax credit currently — the previous 35% NC credit expired end of 2015 and has not been renewed.
Best NC utilities: Duke Energy Carolinas, Duke Energy Progress, Dominion (NC service area), and various electric co-ops. Co-ops vary widely on net metering — some offer full retail, others avoided-cost.
North Carolina solar FAQ
Does Duke Energy NC offer net metering?
Yes — full retail-rate net metering for residential systems under 20 kW. Annual reconciliation each May.
Is there a North Carolina state solar tax credit?
No, the previous 35% NC tax credit expired end of 2015 and has not been renewed.
What property tax benefit does NC offer for solar?
80% of the added home value from residential solar is excluded from property tax assessment.
How much does solar cost in North Carolina 2026?
Average $2.80/W installed. An 8 kW system: $22,400 gross, $15,680 after 30% federal ITC.