Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Durham, North Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly reputable, locally-owned and operated company that specializes in both residential and commercial solar installations. They are known for their comprehensive in-house services, from initial design and consultation to installation and maintenance, ensuring quality control. They have deep knowledge of North Carolina's incentives and Duke Energy's net metering policies.
A leading regional solar installer with a strong presence in the Triangle area, including Durham. They emphasize custom system design and use high-quality equipment from partners like Tesla and Qcells. 8MSolar is particularly noted for its expertise in integrating battery storage solutions like the Tesla Powerwall and for helping homeowners navigate financing and tax credits.
A veteran-owned company that has been serving the Triangle for over a decade. They have built an exceptional reputation for customer service and high-quality craftsmanship. YES Solar Solutions offers a full suite of services and is a Certified B Corporation, reflecting its commitment to social and environmental performance. They are experts in both new construction and retrofit solar installations.
The home solar market in Durham, North Carolina, is **mature and highly competitive**, characterized by several well-established, local and regional installers. The overall quality of service is high, as companies must compete on reputation, expertise, and customer service in a knowledgeable market. Durham homeowners are generally proactive about renewable energy, driven by favorable state policies (like the renewable energy tax credit, though it has changed), federal tax incentives, and rising electricity costs from Duke Energy. **Competition Level:** High. The presence of multiple top-tier local installers means consumers have excellent choices, which drives competitive pricing and service quality. **Typical Pricing:** The average cost for a residential solar panel system in Durham ranges from **$15,000 to $30,000+** before incentives, depending on system size (typically 6kW to 12kW), equipment quality, and roof complexity. After the 30% federal tax credit, the net cost is significantly reduced. Most companies offer various financing options, including loans and leases, to make systems more accessible.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Durham regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Durham, North Carolina.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Durham, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can claim a 30% federal tax credit, and North Carolina offers a state tax credit of 30% (capped at $3,000 for 2024, decreasing in future years). Additionally, Duke Energy Progress customers are eligible for net metering, allowing you to earn bill credits for excess energy sent back to the grid.
Durham's climate is excellent for solar, with ample sunshine averaging over 210 sunny days per year. While summer heat can slightly reduce panel efficiency, the long, sunny days lead to peak production. Winter production is lower due to shorter days, but panels still generate power on clear, cold days, which can actually improve efficiency, and they effectively produce energy even in diffuse light on overcast days.
In Durham, your installer will typically handle the permitting process, which requires approval from both the Durham City-County Inspections Department and Duke Energy Progress for interconnection. Key regulations include the NC Electrical Code, structural load requirements for your roof, and compliance with local zoning ordinances. A key state law (HB 589) guarantees your right to install solar and prevents homeowners' associations from outright banning systems.
Prioritize local, North Carolina-licensed electrical contractors with extensive experience in the Triangle. Verify their credentials with the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors and check reviews on platforms like SolarReviews. Ask for multiple local references, ensure they provide detailed production estimates specific to Durham's weather patterns, and compare several quotes to gauge fair pricing and equipment quality.
No, North Carolina offers an 80% property tax exclusion for the added value of a solar system, so your property taxes will not see a significant increase. For weather, modern panels are rigorously tested to withstand Durham's occasional severe hail. Most installers use panels rated for 1-inch hail at 50+ mph, and your homeowner's insurance typically covers solar panels under the dwelling coverage, but you should confirm this with your insurer.