Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Raleigh, North Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A locally owned and operated company that has become one of the most reputable solar installers in the Triangle. They are known for their personalized service, high-quality installations, and deep expertise in North Carolina's specific solar incentives and net metering policies.
A rapidly growing, employee-owned company with a strong focus on customer education and premium equipment. They are recognized for their clean installations and expertise in both grid-tied and battery backup solutions, offering strong manufacturer partnerships.
One of the longest-standing solar companies in the region, YES Solar Solutions has a proven track record of thousands of installations. They are a Certified B Corporation, reflecting their commitment to social and environmental performance, and offer extensive experience with all aspects of solar system design.
** The home solar market in Raleigh is **highly competitive and mature**, characterized by a high density of qualified and reputable installers. The overall average quality is very high, driven by strong consumer awareness and North Carolina's favorable solar conditions (ample sunlight) and historical state incentives. While the state's major net metering policy changed for new systems in 2023, the market has adapted with a greater emphasis on battery storage to maximize self-consumption and provide backup power. **Competition** is fierce, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and enhanced service offerings. Companies differentiate themselves through financing options (loans, leases, PPAs), manufacturer partnerships (e.g., SunPower, Tesla, Qcells), and specialized warranties. **Typical pricing** for a residential system in Raleigh before incentives ranges from **$18,000 to $35,000**, heavily dependent on system size (typically 6kW to 12kW for an average home) and the inclusion of battery storage. The 30% federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) remains a significant financial incentive, effectively reducing the net cost for eligible homeowners. It is critical for homeowners to obtain multiple quotes from established, locally-licensed contractors to ensure they receive a system tailored to their energy needs and financial goals.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Raleigh regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Raleigh, North Carolina.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Raleigh, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, North Carolina homeowners benefit from the 30% federal tax credit and Duke Energy's $0.36 per watt rebate (up to $6,000), which can significantly lower the net cost. Additionally, North Carolina offers a state tax credit of 30% (capped at $3,000 per installation) for systems installed by the end of 2024, making the financial outlook very favorable.
Raleigh's ample sunshine, averaging over 213 sunny days per year, is excellent for solar energy production, especially during long summer days. Modern panels are tested to withstand hail and high winds, and local installers are well-versed in meeting North Carolina's strict building codes for wind resistance. While efficiency can slightly decrease on extremely hot days, the overall annual production in our climate is very strong, and systems are designed to handle our seasonal thunderstorms and occasional winter ice.
The entire process typically takes 2 to 4 months. After design and permitting, which includes approval from the City of Raleigh and Duke Energy, the physical installation usually takes 1-3 days. The longest phase is often waiting for Duke Energy to install a new net meter and grant "Permission to Operate," which can take several weeks. Choosing a local, experienced installer who is familiar with Raleigh's specific permit requirements and utility procedures is key to avoiding unnecessary delays.
Prioritize local, North Carolina-licensed electrical contractors with strong reputations and physical offices in the Triangle. Verify their license with the NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors and check for certifications from manufacturers like SunPower or Tesla. Always get multiple quotes, read local reviews on platforms like Nextdoor, and ask for references from recent installations in your specific neighborhood to see their work firsthand and understand their experience with Raleigh's permitting process.
Duke Energy offers net metering, where excess solar energy you send to the grid earns you a credit to offset your usage at night or on cloudy days. It's important to note that these credits are applied to your *energy* charges but not to the full bill's fixed monthly customer charges. Standard grid-tied systems will shut off during a power outage for safety reasons unless paired with a dedicated battery backup system, which is an increasingly popular add-on in Raleigh for providing emergency power during storms.