Solar Incentives in Wilmington, NC
Complete guide to solar tax credits, rebates, and incentive programs available to Wilmington homeowners in 2026.
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost
Wilmington homeowners can deduct 30% of the cost of installing a solar energy system from their federal taxes. This applies to all qualified solar installations in Wilmington, NC.
North Carolina State Solar Incentives for Wilmington Homeowners
Duke Energy Solar Rebate
RebateDuke Energy offers rebates for residential solar installations in their North Carolina service territory.
Property Tax Exemption
Property TaxNorth Carolina exempts 80% of the value of solar energy systems from property taxes.
Net Metering in Wilmington, NC
North Carolina requires Duke Energy and other investor-owned utilities to offer net metering for residential solar systems up to 25 kW.
Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) in Wilmington
North Carolina does not have a traditional SREC market. The state's Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard drives utility-scale solar more than residential.
Tax Exemptions in Wilmington
How to Claim Solar Incentives in Wilmington
- Install your solar system: Work with a qualified Wilmington solar installer to design and install your system.
- Claim the federal ITC: File IRS Form 5695 with your federal tax return to claim the 30% tax credit.
- Apply for state programs: Contact your North Carolina energy office or local Wilmington utility to apply for available incentives.
- Set up net metering: Contact your utility in Wilmington to set up net metering and start earning credits.
- Keep records: Save all receipts, contracts, and permits for tax filing and warranty purposes.
Solar Incentives FAQ - Wilmington, NC
Wilmington homeowners can take advantage of the 30% federal solar tax credit, plus 2 state-level incentive programs, net metering. These incentives can reduce your total solar cost by 30-50%.
The 30% federal tax credit alone can save Wilmington homeowners approximately $5.0k on a typical system. Combined with North Carolina state programs, total savings over 25 years can reach $30k or more.
North Carolina requires Duke Energy and other investor-owned utilities to offer net metering for residential solar systems up to 25 kW.
To claim the 30% federal ITC, Wilmington homeowners need to file IRS Form 5695 with their annual tax return. The credit applies to the full cost of your solar system including equipment and installation. You must own the system (not lease it) to claim the credit.
Get Your Free Solar Quote
No obligation • Compare top installers
Solar Incentives in Other North Carolina Cities
Start Saving with Solar Today
Join thousands of homeowners who've switched to clean energy
Get Your Free Quote