Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Highlands, North Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A pioneer in the Southeast solar industry, Sundance Power Systems offers comprehensive residential solar and battery storage solutions. They are known for their high-quality system design, expert installation, and deep knowledge of both grid-tied and off-grid systems, which is crucial for the mountainous Highlands terrain.
A leading local installer focused on Western North Carolina, Asheville Solar Company is highly regarded for its customer service, transparent pricing, and efficient project management. They provide strong consultations and are well-versed in local incentives and financing options.
Specializing in making the solar process simple and accessible, Solares Energies serves the mountain communities of NC and SC. They are praised for their clean installations, responsive communication, and expertise in handling the specific challenges of mountain properties, such as shading and roof angles.
** The home solar market in Highlands, North Carolina, is characterized by high-quality, specialized regional providers rather than a high volume of local competition. The unique mountainous environment demands expertise in off-grid capabilities, battery storage for power reliability, and system design that accounts for variable sun exposure and weather. The average quality of providers serving this area is very high, as the companies that succeed are established, technically proficient, and customer-focused. Typical pricing for a residential system in this region is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before the 30% federal tax credit. This translates to a gross cost of **$25,000 to $35,000 for a 10kW system**, with the final net cost being lower after incentives. The competition, while not dense, is fierce on quality and service, benefiting the consumer. Residents of Highlands are well-advised to choose an installer with proven experience in the specific climatic and topographic challenges of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Highlands regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Highlands, North Carolina.
Highlands' high elevation provides excellent sunlight intensity, but seasonal shading from deciduous trees and occasional winter snow can impact production. A professional site assessment is crucial to identify optimal, unshaded roof areas or consider selective tree trimming. Panels are designed to handle snow, which typically melts quickly due to their dark surface and angle, and our cloudy-day productivity is still significant.
The gross system cost for a typical Highlands home ranges from $18,000 to $30,000 before incentives. Crucially, North Carolina offers a state tax credit of 25% (capped at $10,500) in addition to the 30% federal tax credit, making the net cost substantially lower. You also benefit from net metering with Duke Energy, earning bill credits for excess power sent to the grid.
Yes, you must obtain an electrical permit from the Town of Highlands and comply with Macon County building codes. While North Carolina has a "Solar Rights Act" that limits HOAs from outright prohibiting solar, they can have reasonable rules on placement and appearance. It's essential to review your HOA covenants and engage a local installer familiar with navigating these approvals.
For a Highlands home, the full process typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes system design, securing permits from the town and county, installation (which itself takes 1-3 days), and the final inspection and interconnection approval from Duke Energy. Seasonal weather can cause minor delays, so planning for a spring or summer installation is often ideal.
Prioritize providers with proven local experience, as they understand our specific climate, Duke Energy's interconnection process, and local building departments. Look for licensed, insured, and NABCEP-certified installers. Always request local references and compare multiple detailed quotes that include production estimates for Highlands' specific weather patterns, not just generic national averages.