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Best 5 Solar Companies in Rocky Mount, NC
The best solar company in Rocky Mount is Emerald Energy.
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- Updated 2024-04-18 00:00:00
Rocky Mount homeowners are increasingly using solar panels to generate energy and heat their water. While switching to solar energy comes with upfront costs, local homeowners could ultimately save $990 per kilowatt on their electric bills. A professional installation team can help you select the best panels to maximize your savings. On this page, we'll show you Rocky Mount's premier solar companies and share expert advice for your solar journey.
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- Offers high-efficiency panels and storage options
- Provides unique in-house financing options
- Recognized as one of the most reputable solar companies
5 Best Solar Companies in Rocky Mount
Brands are algorithmically curated from a database of local service providers near you. We require a minimum number of Google reviews and average ratings for provider inclusion.
Emerald Energy
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
NC Solar Now
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
8MSolar
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Wiring Solutions Plus LLC
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Noon Solar
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Ranking Methodology
Our team has meticulously studied dozens of solar contractors near Rocky Mount, with emphasis on the following criteria:
- Educational programs and business model: Solar technicians must be good teachers. They should use their years of experience answer your questions on how to maintain your system and maximize its performance.
- Service offerings and warranties: Solar contractors should stand behind their equipment and services with warranties. We evaluated how each contractor responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on promptness and customer satisfaction.
- Panel brands and quality: The best solar companies stay up-to-date with new technology, offering equipment from reliable, innovative manufacturers.
- Feedback and reviews from customers: Most Rocky Mount solar contractors have both favorable and unfavorable reviews. However, a good review ratio reflects a company's trustworthiness and responsiveness to issues.
- Experience and professional licensure: Each provider on our list meets state and city licensing requirements and stays up to date with industry best practices. Many of them have been a part of the Rocky Mount community for over 15 years.
Facts about Rocky Mount
- Average Max Temperature:70°F
- Solar Payback Period:12 years
- Average Daily Sunlight:58%
- Homes Powered by Solar:6,683
- Average Annual Energy Bill:$1,483
- Solar Power per Capita:16.0%
Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy comes with multiple perks. Here are some highlights.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Utilizing solar is a surefire way to lower your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
- Lowered energy bills: With solar energy systems, you create power without paying the tacked-on costs of grid-tied power. Going off-grid can eliminate your bills completely. Plus, a significant number of states offer net metering, which permit you to earn money by selling your unused energy back to the grid.
- Better energy independence: Adding a solar battery storage system lets you have trustworthy energy during grid outages and storms.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Rocky Mount Homeowners?
North Carolina agencies and electric companies offer numerous solar incentives to help reduce your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of relevant solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type:Rebate Program
Website:https://www.duke-energy.com/home/products/renewable-energy/nc-solar-rebates
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:https://www.energyunited.com/energy-services/rebates/energy-efficiency-rebates/
Incentive Amount:
Heat Pumps (15 SEER): $150/unit
Heat Pumps (16 SEER): $300/unit
Incentive Type:Performance-Based Incentive
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:Rebate Program
Website:https://www.duke-energy.com/home/products/smart-saver
Incentive Amount:
Central A/C or Heat Pump: $300 - $400 + 50 with smart thermostat
Geothermal Heat Pumps: $400 + 50 with smart thermostat
Heat Pump Water Heater: $350
Attic Insulation & Air Sealing: $250
Duct Sealing: $100
Pool Pump: $300
Incentive Type:Personal Tax Credit
Website:https://www.ecowatch.com/solar/ev-appliance-solar-tax-credit-calculator
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 Rocky Mount
The purchase price and performance of solar panels often depend on the solar company that installed them. Make your choice based on the following essential elements.
Licensing and Training
A licensed electrical contractor in North Carolina may manage home solar PV installations in North Carolina if they have the relevant classification from the North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private accreditations. Two of the most respected are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer certificates, awarded by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.
Cost of Solar Panels in Rocky Mount
Your photovoltaic panels' style will affect how much energy you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels offer you a budget panel with a traditional design, but at the cost of less power generation. Thin-film panels are excellent for non-traditional roof shapes and cost the least, but don't work well for large residential installations.
Additional system add-ons, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will add to your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar providers offer these additional features, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's crucial for you.
A majority of Rocky Mount homeowners opt for solar systems designed for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems cost about $17,550 to set up, considering both parts and installation. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $935.71 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $729.86 |
| Thin-Film | $426.69 |
| Solar Battery | $598.86 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,245.71 |
Financing Solar Energy in Rocky Mount
Solar companies offer multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are power purchase agreements (PPAs), cash payments, solar loans and solar leases. Most solar experts recommend paying cash or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand a large up-front sum, but they save you from paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Similar to an auto or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with 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 don't grant you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Ask each company you're vetting about the payment plans it offers. A team member can help you determine the best option for your pocketbook.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Rocky Mount.
You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy devices until the year 2032. City and state officials and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and specialized financing options that could save you more.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 2.1 years |
| 2 kW | 4.2 years |
| 5 kW | 10.4 years |
| 10 kW | 20.8 years |
Frequently Asked Questions about Solar in Rocky Mount
Most Rocky Mount homeowners spend about $1,483 on energy each year. Your costs could drop by $988.87 for each kilowatt you generate after you pay off a solar array.
Yes, solar energy is becoming increasingly popular in Rocky Mount. Some homes already generate solar power on-site or through utility grids, and they're fortified by a state solar economy with 6617 jobs and counting.
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 increase your home's value by $12,000.
To protect your solar system's efficiency, inspections and cleanings every six months are usually enough. In dusty or dry seasons, your panels might need cleanings every few months. Your technician can recommend a maintenance schedule. Its team could also handle the cleaning for you.
A typical Rocky Mount solar home has a 7.0-kW panel array, but you might need a larger system if your energy needs are more demanding. Solar professionals will evaluate your property's energy consumption and roof shading to determine the proper system for you.
The average payback period for a solar loan in Rocky Mount is 12.4 years. By paying off extra principal each month, you can shorten the payback period and own your system faster.
Net metering is a method that credits solar homeowners for any excess electricity they generate and send back to the grid.
Some states or utilities mandate you to join net metering when installing your solar system, while others give you a choice. Either way, once you sign up, you'll get a check or bill credit for your excess generation at a wholesale or retail rate.
It's prudent to gather at least three different estimates before committing to a single solar provider. This allows you to evaluate product quality, pricing, customer feedback, and warranty options. It also helps you assess a contractor's reliability, responsiveness and knowledge, all of which are "green flags".
Sources
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