Solar Panel Cost in North Carolina (2026)
In North Carolina, home solar installs for roughly $2.55/watt in 2026. A typical 8 kW system runs about $20,400, with an estimated payback near 11.4 years at the state's ~16¢/kWh electricity rate.
| System size | Est. cost | Est. annual savings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $15,300 | $1,300/yr | 11.4 yrs |
| 8 kW | $20,400 | $1,800/yr | 11.4 yrs |
| 11 kW | $28,000 | $2,500/yr | 11.4 yrs |
Estimates use ~$2.55/watt installed and North Carolina's ~16¢/kWh rate. Before any state/local incentives.
North Carolina solar notes
North Carolina's Duke Energy moved to a time-of-use 'bridge' net-metering tariff with monthly minimums; a state solar rebate program provides periodic upfront incentives.
Heads up: the 30% federal tax credit for purchased home solar ended Dec 31, 2025. Leased/PPA systems may still qualify through 2027, and North Carolina may offer its own incentives — check locally.
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