Solar Panel Cost in Cary, NC
Updated 2026 guide to solar panel prices, savings, and payback period in Cary.
Solar in Cary costs about $2.75/watt and pays back in ~8 years — here is the full cost breakdown.
- Solar panels in Cary cost about $2.75/watt installed — roughly $16,500 for a typical 6 kW system before incentives.
- The 30% federal tax credit lowers that price, and North Carolina offers net metering.
- A Cary solar system pays for itself in about 8 years.
- Over 25 years, Cary homeowners save roughly $30,000.
What solar costs and saves you
How much do solar panels cost in Cary, NC?
Below are estimated costs for different solar panel system sizes in Cary, including the 30% federal solar tax credit.
| System Size | Cost Before Incentives | Federal Tax Credit (30%) | Net Cost | Est. Annual Production |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 kW | $11,000 | -$3,300 | $7,700 | 6,862 kWh |
| 6 kWMost Popular | $16,500 | -$4,950 | $11,550 | 10,293 kWh |
| 8 kW | $22,000 | -$6,600 | $15,400 | 13,724 kWh |
| 10 kW | $27,500 | -$8,250 | $19,250 | 17,155 kWh |
| 12 kW | $33,000 | -$9,900 | $23,100 | 20,586 kWh |
What Affects Solar Panel Cost in Cary?
The average cost of solar panels in Cary, NC is approximately $275/watt before incentives. For a typical 6kW residential system, that means a total cost of about $16,500 before the federal tax credit.
After applying the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), your net cost drops to approximately $11,550.Cary homeowners typically see a payback period of 8 years and save an estimated $30,000 over 25 years.
Factors that affect your cost in Cary:
- System size: Larger systems cost more but have a lower cost per watt
- Equipment quality: Premium panels and inverters cost more but offer better efficiency
- Roof complexity: Steep roofs, multiple levels, or shading can increase installation costs
- Local labor rates: Installation costs vary within the Cary metro area
- Local permits: Permitting costs and requirements vary by municipality in Cary
- Incentives: State and local programs can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost
What solar incentives are available in Cary?
30% Federal Tax Credit (ITC)
North Carolina homeowners can claim the 30% federal ITC on their solar installation costs.
State & Local Incentives
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
North Carolina requires Duke Energy and other investor-owned utilities to offer net metering for residential solar systems up to 25 kW.
✓ AvailableSRECs
North Carolina does not have a traditional SREC market. The state's Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard drives utility-scale solar more than residential.
Not Available
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Who are the top solar companies in Cary, NC?
Affordable Solar Roof & Air
- Years in business
- 14
- Service area
- Cary
- Phone
- (800) 515-1254
Sunergy Solutions LLC
- Years in business
- 6
- Service area
- Cary
- Phone
- (603) 289-1090
Green Power Energy
- Years in business
- 17
- Service area
- Cary
- Phone
- (855) 525-1675
Solar Panel Cost FAQ - Cary, NC
The average cost of solar panels in Cary is approximately $2.75 per watt before incentives. A typical 6kW residential system costs about $16,500 before the 30% federal tax credit, bringing the net cost to around $11,550.
The typical payback period for solar panels in Cary is approximately 8 years. After that, you'll enjoy free electricity for the remaining 15-20+ years of your system's life, saving an estimated $30,000 over 25 years.
Cary homeowners can take advantage of the 30% federal solar tax credit, which reduces your system cost by 30%. North Carolina also offers net metering, and various state-level incentive programs. Check our incentives page for the complete list.
Cary homeowners can save an estimated $30,000 over 25 years by going solar. Actual savings depend on your electricity usage, system size, roof orientation, and available incentives. With electricity rates averaging $0.12/kWh in North Carolina, solar provides significant long-term savings.
Solar Costs in Other North Carolina Cities
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