Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Matthews, North Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading local and employee-owned solar installer in the Carolinas, Renu has a strong reputation for comprehensive service, from custom design and installation to maintenance and repair. They are known for their expertise in both residential and commercial systems and have deep knowledge of local incentives.
8MSolar is a highly-rated, customer-focused provider that emphasizes custom solar solutions and high-quality equipment. They handle the entire process, including design, permitting, installation, and interconnection, and are known for their strong customer service and post-installation support.
As one of the largest residential solar companies in the U.S., Sunrun offers strong name recognition and extensive financing options, notably their solar lease and Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) models. They provide national backing with local installation crews serving the Matthews area.
** The home solar market in Matthews, North Carolina, is robust and competitive, benefiting from its position within the Charlotte metropolitan area. The average quality of providers is high, with several well-established local and national companies vying for business. Homeowners have a good selection of options, from bespoke local installers like Renu to large national providers like Sunrun. Competition helps keep pricing relatively competitive. As of 2024, the average cost for a residential solar panel system in North Carolina before incentives is typically in the range of **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt**, meaning a standard 6 kW system could gross between $15,000 and $21,000. The 30% federal solar tax credit significantly reduces this net cost. Providers in this market are generally well-versed in Duke Energy's net metering policies and the available state and local incentives, making it a favorable environment for homeowners considering solar.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Matthews regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Matthews, North Carolina.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Matthews, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, North Carolina offers a state tax credit of 25% of the system cost (capped at $10,500), which stacks with the 30% federal tax credit. Additionally, Duke Energy Progress, the local utility, offers net metering, allowing you to earn bill credits for excess energy sent back to the grid.
Matthews' humid subtropical climate is favorable for solar, with ample sunshine year-round. While summer offers the most peak sun hours, panels are efficient in cooler temperatures, making spring and fall highly productive. Winter production is lower due to shorter days, but snowfall is rare and rarely accumulates, so snow-related production loss is minimal compared to northern states.
Installation requires a building permit from the Town of Matthews Planning Department. Your chosen installer will typically manage this process. The system must comply with the NC State Electrical Code and be inspected by a Town of Matthews inspector. Importantly, North Carolina's "Solar Access Law" protects your right to install solar, preventing most homeowners' association (HOA) restrictions from outright prohibiting systems.
Prioritize North Carolina-licensed electrical contractors with specific solar experience. Look for providers familiar with Duke Energy Progress's interconnection process and Matthews' permitting. Check reviews, ask for local references, and verify they offer robust warranties (25-year on panels is standard). Be wary of out-of-state companies that may not understand local nuances.
In North Carolina, 80% of the added value from a solar installation is exempt from property taxes, significantly reducing any potential increase. Regarding outages, a standard grid-tied system will shut off for safety unless paired with a dedicated battery backup (like a Tesla Powerwall). This is a critical consideration for homeowners concerned about Matthews' occasional severe thunderstorms and power disruptions.