Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in New Bern, North Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer known for comprehensive service from initial consultation to post-installation support. They emphasize custom system design and have strong partnerships with top-tier equipment manufacturers. They are highly rated for their customer service and knowledge of local incentives.
A well-established, locally-focused solar provider based in Cary, NC, that serves the entire Triangle and Coastal regions, including New Bern. They are a certified SunPower dealer, offering some of the industry's most efficient panels and robust warranties. They are praised for their professionalism and system design expertise.
A highly respected, employee-owned B-Corporation based in Morrisville, NC, with a long history of serving Eastern North Carolina. They are known for their rigorous quality standards, energy efficiency assessments, and ethical sales approach. They excel in integrating solar with whole-home energy efficiency.
The home solar market in New Bern, North Carolina, is **moderately competitive and of high quality**. Homeowners have access to a mix of strong regional installers (like 8MSolar) and reputable companies from the larger metro areas like the Triangle (Raleigh-Durham) that actively serve the Coastal region. These providers are generally well-established, professionally licensed, and offer robust warranties. The competition helps maintain high service standards, but it's not oversaturated like some major metropolitan markets. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in New Bern is competitive with the national average, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. This translates to a gross cost of approximately **$15,000 to $30,000** for an average-sized system (6-10 kW). The combination of the 30% federal investment tax credit (ITC), North Carolina's state-specific incentives, and Duke Energy's net metering policies makes solar a financially attractive investment for many homeowners in the area. Consumers are advised to obtain multiple quotes to compare equipment, financing options, and warranty terms.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with New Bern regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in New Bern, North Carolina.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in New Bern, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can claim a 30% federal tax credit, significantly reducing the net cost. North Carolina also offers specific benefits, including no state sales tax on solar equipment and property tax abatement, meaning your home's assessed value won't increase due to the solar installation.
New Bern's high humidity and hurricane risk are key local considerations. Reputable installers will use corrosion-resistant hardware and secure mounting systems engineered to withstand high winds (often up to 160 mph). While panels are very durable, it's essential to ensure your homeowner's insurance policy adequately covers the system against storm damage, a common practice in our coastal region.
After installation, your solar provider will handle the interconnection application with your local utility (Jones-Onslow EMC or Duke Energy Progress). The process includes a review and installation of a net meter. In North Carolina, utilities are required to process these applications, but the timeline can vary from 2 to 8 weeks. Your installer's experience with the specific utility is vital for a smooth process.
Prioritize local, established companies with extensive experience installing under Eastern NC's specific conditions. Verify they are properly licensed (North Carolina Electrical Contractor license) and insured. Ask for references from recent installations in Craven County and check their rating with the Better Business Bureau. A trustworthy provider will offer a detailed site assessment that accounts for local shading (e.g., from pine trees) and roof integrity.
Yes. Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not just direct sun. New Bern receives ample sunshine annually (above the national average), making it a good location for solar. Production will be highest in the long, clear spring and summer days and lower on short, cloudy winter days, but the annual net metering credit with your utility balances this seasonal variation over the course of the full year.