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Best 5 Solar Companies in Concord, NC

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Written By Max Peterson|Last Updated: April 18, 2024

With Concord's clear skies and below-average rainfall, it's a perfect area for families and businesses hoping to harness the added sunlight by purchasing panels from one of the best solar companies. With all the options to choose from in this urban jungle, you might feel overwhelmed searching for an exceptional contractor. Discover Concord's top-rated solar companies and learn essential decision-making tips on this page.

Best High-Efficiency System
4.8
  • Builds custom, high-efficiency solar systems suited to each home
  • Extensive coverage area throughout the country
  • Offers energy storage and EV charger add-ons
Most Reputable
4.4
  • Offers high-efficiency panels and storage options
  • Provides unique in-house financing options
  • Recognized as one of the most reputable solar companies

Top Concord Solar Companies

Solar Boy Energy Logo

Solar Boy Energy

4.7/5
Based on 28 customer reviews.

Services Offered

ConsultationPanel InstallationBattery StorageFinancing Assistance

Highlights

  • Informative resources
  • Clear pricing policy
  • Free quotes
3214 Central Ave, Charlotte, NC 980-900-7726 solarboyenergy.com
Better Tomorrow Solar Logo

Better Tomorrow Solar

4.4/5
Based on 15 customer reviews.

Services Offered

ConsultationGrid-Tied Solar SystemPanel InstallationPermit AssistanceFinancing AssistanceBattery Storage

Highlights

  • Free quotes
  • Clear pricing policy
  • Informative resources
210 Delburg St, Davidson, NC 980-317-0145 bettertomorrowsolar.com
Renewable Energy Group Logo

Renewable Energy Group

4.4/5
Based on 57 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Panel InstallationPermit AssistanceBattery StorageFinancing Assistance

Highlights

  • Free quotes
  • Reliable customer support
  • Informative resources
1300 South Blvd Unit D, Charlotte, NC 980-505-0047 renewableenergygroupusa.com
EMPWR Solar Logo

EMPWR Solar

4.3/5
Based on 193 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Battery StoragePanel Installation

Highlights

  • Informative resources
  • Reliable customer support
529 W Summit Ave Suite 2c, Charlotte, NC 854-999-4837 empwrsolar.com

More Local Solar Companies

Sun Service Specialists

User Reviews: 4.5/5 

801 Pressley Rd Suite 100-C
Charlotte, NC 28217

TayCo Electric & Solar Inc.

User Reviews: 4.6/5 

1506 Turring Dr
Indian Trail, NC 28079

Renu Energy Solutions

User Reviews: 4.2/5 

115 E Main St Suite E
Jamestown, NC 27282

Beam Solar Co

User Reviews: 3.9/5 

1231 Shields Rd #5
Kernersville, NC 27284

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.

Ranking Methodology

Our team used the following criteria to assess the best Concord solar companies.

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Facts about Concord
Average Max Temp:69°F
Solar Payback Period:10.4 years
Average Daily Sunlight:59%
Homes Powered by Solar:12,259
Average Annual Energy Bill:$1,322
Solar Power per Capita Percentile:48.0%

Expert Tips By

This Old House empowers homeowners with the knowledge and tools they need to tackle various projects and navigate the complexities of homeownership.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy has several advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

  • Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with battery backups and storage systems work through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to depend on your power company for your safety and well-being.
  • Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is a highly abundant clean energy source, meaning you can lower or beat your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.
  • Lowered energy bills: With a solar array, you create power without paying the tacked-on costs of grid-tied power. You can eliminate your bills completely if you go off-grid. Plus, a significant amount of states have adopted net metering, which permit you to earn money by selling your unused energy back to the grid.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Concord Homeowners?

North Carolina agencies and electric companies offer several solar incentives to help offset your solar system costs. Check out a breakdown of relevant solar programs where you live.

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: duke-energy.com

Incentive Amount:

Residential: $0.60/W-AC
Nonresidential: $0.50/W-AC
Nonprofit: $0.75/W-AC

Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive

Incentive Amount:

Residential systems: 100% of the appraised value
All other systems: 80% of the appraised value

Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive

Incentive Amount:

No more than conventional equipment

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: energyunited.com

Incentive Amount:

Heat Pumps (15 SEER): $150/unit
Heat Pumps (16 SEER): $300/unit

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: duke-energy.com

Incentive Amount:

Central Air Conditioning or Heat Pump: $300 - $400 + $50 with added smart thermostat
Geothermal Heat Pump: $400 + $50 with added smart thermostat
Heat Pump Water Heater: $350
Attic Insulation or Attic Air Sealing: $250
Duct Sealing: $100
Variable-Speed Pool Pumps: $300

Incentive Type: Performance-Based Incentive

Website: ncgreenpower.org

Incentive Amount:

Varies by technology and system size
PV larger than 5 kW: must enter bid process
Wind up to 10 kW: $0.09/kWh
Wind larger than 10 kW: must enter bid process

Incentive Type: Loan Program

Incentive Type: Green Building Incentive

Incentive Amount:

Authorized by legislation for green buildings. Actual permit process to be determined by local government.

Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit

Website: ecowatch.com

Incentive Amount:

30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Concord

The price and efficiency of solar panels often depend on which company mounted them. Here are some important factors to keep in mind while searching for a solar installer.

Licensing and Training

A licensed electrical contractor in North Carolina may direct home solar PV installations in North Carolina if they have the relevant classification from the North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors. Check for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar industry's most reputed trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.

Cost of Solar Panels in Concord

The style of solar panels you purchase decides how much energy you can produce. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't recommended for large residential installations, but they are ideal for small projects like converting RVs and sheds.

If you need to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By choosing the right components, you can make your system more effective and convenient to use. Not all solar contractors offer these additional features, so look for a company that sells them if it's important for you.

A majority of Concord homeowners select solar systems designed for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $17,550 to set up, considering both materials and labor. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.

Solar Panel CostAverage Cost
Solar Monocrystalline$1,062
Solar Polycrystalline$828
Thin-Film$484
Solar Battery$680
Solar Home EV Charger$2,548

Financing Solar Energy in Concord

Solar companies offer multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are power purchase agreements (PPAs), solar loans, cash payments and solar leases. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most economical choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the second most effective option. As with a car loan or mortgage, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for valuable solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases let you use your panels for a fixed monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and do not provide you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Look for companies that offer several payment plans to find the right fit for your budget.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Concord.

The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal solar tax credit on total system costs, so long as you purchase it before 2032. Local governments and utilities might also offer their own incentives, rebates, and financing programs that could save you more money.

Solar System CapacityEstimated Payback period
1 kW2.1 years
2 kW4.2 years
5 kW10.4 years
10 kW20.8 years

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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Concord

How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?

On average, Concord homeowners spend approximately $1,322 per year for energy. Once you repay your solar array, you could save $904.00 for every kilowatt you produce.

How common is solar energy in Concord?

Yes, solar energy is readily available in Concord. A growing number of local homes already access solar power on-site or through utility grids, and North Carolina has about 6617 jobs making up its solar economy.

Will solar energy systems boost my Concord home price?

Yes, new solar systems mean higher property values according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL.) Homeowners could project a $20 property value increase for each dollar they save on energy. Therefore, $600 in energy savings could boost your property value by $12,000.

How can I check my property's solar suitability?

To determine your home's solar readiness, there's no substitute for a comprehensive quote from a local solar provider. However, you can use the PVWatts tool for a simple solar viability estimate based on public data, including system size, tree cover, local weather and topography, and panel efficiency.

Is installing solar panels a fast job?

There's no universal answer for how long a solar project might take. Ultimately, it depends on panel style, the necessary prework, system size, local weather, and the permitting and inspection process. Many homeowners can be solar-ready within a few months from their initial estimate visit.

What's the average solar system size in Concord?

A typical Concord solar home uses a 6.9-kW panel array, but you might need a bigger system if your energy needs are more demanding. Solar installers will evaluate your property's power usage and roof shading to determine the appropriate system for you.

What are some "red flags" to watch for as I research companies?

While many online reviews are positive, even the rated solar companies might have complaints. You should know these early red flags for the best odds of a well-done job:
  • Pushy sales approach
  • Dodging questions about references, warranties, credentials and training and cost
  • "One-size-fits-all" approach
  • Rushing through the site assessment
  • Limited online information

What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?

The main differences between a power purchase agreement and traditional financing are that you pay a fluctuating monthly rate based on your energy usage and don't own your system. Your service provider installs and maintains the panels, and you pay for the generated electricity for 10–25 years. Afterward, you can extend the agreement or purchase the system outright.

You might consider a PPA if you don’t want to be responsible for maintenance and don’t want to invest in a system, but keep in mind you won’t be paying toward ownership or be able to access any cost-saving solar incentives. Many solar experts don’t recommend PPAs. Our guide covers other payment options above.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.

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