Best 5 Solar Companies in Winston-Salem, NC

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Winston-Salem

The more informed your company research is, the better your solar installation will ultimately work. Consider each of these aspects in your service provider search.

Licensing and Training

A licensed electrical contractor in North Carolina may manage home solar PV installations in North Carolina if they have the appropriate classification from the North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors. Solar installers can also earn certifications from trade groups and standards organizations. The top ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Winston-Salem

The kind of solar panels you select determines how much power you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels work with a tried-and-true mechanism and cost less, but produce less power. Thin-film panels aren't recommended for large residential installations, but they are ideal for small projects like converting RVs and sheds.

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 contractors provide these extras, so look for a company that sells them if it's essential for you.

If you're a resident of Winston-Salem and are looking into a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $17,550 for materials and labor. See more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Winston-Salem

Choosing the best financing solution will influence your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include loans, cash payments, leases, and power purchase agreements. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand a large up-front sum, but they help you avoid 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. Much like a home or car loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to rent your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, akin 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 pocket.

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

A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to recently-purchased solar equipment purchased through 2032. Additional incentives may be available through local governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.