Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Richlands, North Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A top-tier SunPower Master Dealer, offering high-efficiency solar panels and robust battery storage solutions like the SunVault. Known for comprehensive in-house services from design to installation and maintenance, backed by strong manufacturer warranties.
A highly-rated local installer with a strong reputation in Eastern North Carolina for quality craftsmanship and customer service. They offer a wide range of services including grid-tied and off-grid systems and are well-versed in local permitting and incentives.
A veteran-owned company with an exceptional reputation for quality and expertise across Southeastern North Carolina. They provide full-service design, installation, and maintenance, with a focus on both residential and commercial projects.
** The home solar market in and around Richlands, NC, is characteristic of a growing rural/suburban area. The competition level is **moderate**, with a handful of highly specialized, reputable regional installers dominating the market rather than a flood of national brands. The average quality of providers is **high**, as the companies that succeed in this market tend to be established, licensed, and insured contractors with strong local word-of-mouth reputations. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. This translates to a typical gross cost of **$25,000 to $35,000 for a 10kW system**. However, the net cost after applying the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and any potential local incentives can be significantly lower. Providers in this region are generally very knowledgeable about these incentives and offer a variety of financing options, including loans and leases, to make solar accessible. The presence of local companies like 8 Mile Solar within the town itself is a significant advantage for residents seeking personalized service.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Richlands regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Richlands, North Carolina.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Richlands, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, North Carolina homeowners benefit from the 30% federal solar tax credit, which significantly reduces the net cost. While there is no statewide rebate, Onslow County and Richlands residents also benefit from net metering programs from their utility (often Jones-Onslow EMC or Duke Energy Progress), which provide bill credits for excess energy sent back to the grid.
Richlands' humid subtropical climate is generally favorable for solar, with ample sunshine year-round. While summer provides the most peak sun hours, panels still produce efficiently in cooler spring and fall temperatures. The primary seasonal consideration is summer afternoon cloud cover from thunderstorms; however, modern systems are designed to capture energy before these storms, and annual production remains strong. Snow is rare and typically melts quickly, minimizing winter production loss.
Installing solar in Richlands requires compliance with Onslow County building and electrical codes. You or your installer will need to obtain a permit from the Onslow County Development Services Department. Your chosen utility (Jones-Onslow EMC or Duke Energy Progress) also requires an interconnection agreement to connect your system to the grid. A reputable local installer will manage this entire permitting and approval process on your behalf.
Prioritize installers who are licensed, insured, and have proven experience with Onslow County permits and local utility interconnection processes. Look for North Carolina-based companies with strong local references and reviews. It's essential to get multiple detailed quotes, compare equipment warranties (often 25 years for panels), and ensure they offer a strong workmanship warranty. Avoid out-of-state companies that may not understand local nuances.
Yes, reputable installers in Eastern NC use systems engineered for high-wind regions. Panels and racking must meet strict building codes, often rated to withstand winds up to 140-160 mph, which exceeds typical hurricane-force winds. Furthermore, North Carolina's strong building standards and the requirement for a professional structural assessment as part of the permit process ensure your roof and mounting system are secure. Comprehensive homeowner's insurance typically covers solar panels as a permanent attachment.