RaleighSolar Incentives 2026: Rebates, Tax Credits & Net Metering
Raleigh homeowners stack the 30% federal tax credit and Duke Energy net metering. With 5.2 peak sun hours a day and bills averaging $130/month, the typical Raleigh system pays back in about 8.1 years.
Solar Incentives Available in Raleigh
Solar incentives in Raleigh come in three layers. First, every homeowner qualifies for the 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit on the full installed cost, claimed on IRS Form 5695. North Carolina does not add a state income tax credit, so the federal credit is the main up-front incentive. Third, Duke Energy sets the local rules for crediting the solar power you export.
Raleigh homes on Duke Energy can stack the federal credit with North Carolina's solar property tax exemption.
Duke Energy Net Metering in Raleigh
Duke Energy credits excess solar generation from Raleigh homes under North Carolina's net metering rules, at roughly ~100% of retail of the retail rate. A right-sized system can bring net annual electricity costs close to zero. See full North Carolina net metering rules →
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in Raleigh?
At North Carolina's 2026 average of $2.85/watt, a typical 8 kW system in Raleigh runs about $22,800 before incentives. After the 30% federal credit, the net cost drops to roughly $15,960 — the real out-of-pocket number for most Raleigh homeowners.
Get matched with vetted solar installers in Raleigh
The incentives on this page tell you what solar is worth. The next step is real quotes. Compare pre-screened local installers through EnergySage — free, no phone spam, and you stay anonymous until you choose to connect.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Solar Incentives in Other North Carolina Cities
See your exact Raleigh solar savings
Enter your Duke Energy bill and we'll apply every North Carolina and federal incentive to your real numbers — system size, net cost, payback, and 25-year savings.