Solar Panel Savings in Raleigh, NC
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Raleigh, North Carolina. Based on 5.1 peak sun hours/day and 12.7¢/kWh average electricity rate.
5.1
Peak Sun Hours/Day
12.7¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
9.9 yr
Payback Period
$17k
25-Year Savings
Raleigh Solar Overview
Calculate Your Raleigh Solar Savings
Raleigh average: $121/mo
South-facing roofs produce the most energy
Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup
Annual Production
kWh/year
Annual Savings
per year
Net System Cost
after 30% ITC
Payback Period
break-even time
25-Year Total Savings
$38,837
Monthly Savings
$95
Federal Tax Credit
$4,842
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Raleigh | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $16,140 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$4,842 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $11,298 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $2.69/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Raleigh
Sun Hours vs National Average
Raleigh gets 13% more sun than the national average.
Climate Advantages
- 208 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 64°F — moderate climate with good solar conditions
- Average roof size: 1,686 sq ft — enough for a 93-panel system
Raleigh Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $16,140 system, that's a $4,842 credit. Valid through 2032.
North Carolina State Incentives
North Carolina property tax exemption; Duke Energy solar rebates.
Net Metering — Duke Energy Progress
Duke Energy Progress offers net metering in Raleigh. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Raleigh
3.7
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
61
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.8
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 8,935 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.
Solar Energy in Raleigh, North Carolina
Raleigh, North Carolina receives an average of 5.1 peak sun hours per day, providing excellent conditions for residential solar installations. With electricity rates averaging 12.7¢ per kWh from Duke Energy Progress, below the national average, but with rates rising 2-3% annually, the long-term savings are still meaningful.
A typical 6kW solar system in Raleigh produces approximately 8,935 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $1,137 annually. The system pays for itself in about 9.9 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 15+ years of the system's warranty life.
Raleigh has a solar penetration rate of 6.4% — showing growing adoption of residential solar, with significant room for expansion. The cost of living index of 87 (national average: 100) reflects a lower cost of living, keeping installation costs competitive.
Other Cities in North Carolina
Asheville, NC
Cary, NC
Charlotte, NC
Concord, NC
Durham, NC
Fayetteville, NC
Gastonia, NC
Greensboro, NC
High Point, NC
Wilmington, NC
Winston-Salem, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Raleigh, NC?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Raleigh is approximately $16,140 before incentives ($2.69/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $11,298. North Carolina property tax exemption; Duke Energy solar rebates.
How many peak sun hours does Raleigh get?
Raleigh, NC receives an average of 5.1 peak sun hours per day and approximately 208 sunny days per year. This is above the national average of 4.5 hours, making it an excellent location for solar energy.
What is the solar payback period in Raleigh?
The average solar payback period in Raleigh is approximately 9.9 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $17,127.
Does Raleigh have net metering?
Yes, Raleigh has access to net metering through Duke Energy Progress. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.
Is solar worth it in Raleigh, NC?
Absolutely. With a 9.9-year payback period and $17,127 in 25-year savings, solar is an excellent investment in Raleigh. The 30% federal tax credit and local incentives help make solar financially attractive.