Solar Panel Cost in Chesapeake, VA
Updated 2026 guide to solar panel prices, savings, and payback period in Chesapeake.
Estimated Solar Savings
Solar Panel System Costs in Chesapeake, VA
Below are estimated costs for different solar panel system sizes in Chesapeake, including the 30% federal solar tax credit.
| System Size | Cost Before Incentives | Federal Tax Credit (30%) | Net Cost | Est. Annual Production |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 kW | $11,400 | -$3,420 | $7,980 | 6,278 kWh |
| 6 kWMost Popular | $17,100 | -$5,130 | $11,970 | 9,417 kWh |
| 8 kW | $22,800 | -$6,840 | $15,960 | 12,556 kWh |
| 10 kW | $28,500 | -$8,550 | $19,950 | 15,695 kWh |
| 12 kW | $34,200 | -$10,260 | $23,940 | 18,834 kWh |
What Affects Solar Panel Cost in Chesapeake?
The average cost of solar panels in Chesapeake, VA is approximately $285/watt before incentives. For a typical 6kW residential system, that means a total cost of about $17,100 before the federal tax credit.
After applying the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), your net cost drops to approximately $11,970.Chesapeake homeowners typically see a payback period of 8 years and save an estimated $30,000 over 25 years.
Factors that affect your cost in Chesapeake:
- 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 Chesapeake metro area
- Local permits: Permitting costs and requirements vary by municipality in Chesapeake
- Incentives: State and local programs can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost
Solar Incentives Available in Chesapeake
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit
30% Federal Tax Credit (ITC)
Virginia homeowners can claim the 30% federal ITC. Recent legislation has improved the solar landscape significantly in Virginia.
State & Local Incentives
Property Tax Exemption
Property TaxVirginia localities can exempt solar energy equipment from local property taxes. Most counties and cities offer this exemption.
Sales Tax Exemption
Sales TaxVirginia exempts solar energy equipment from the state's sales and use tax.
Virginia SRECs
SRECVirginia's Clean Economy Act created an SREC market for residential solar installations.
Net Metering
Virginia requires Dominion Energy and Appalachian Power to offer net metering for residential solar systems up to 25 kW at the full retail rate.
AvailableSRECs
Virginia's Clean Economy Act established a renewable portfolio standard that creates demand for SRECs. Residential solar owners can earn and sell SRECs for additional income.
Est. Value: $10-$30 per SREC
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Solar Panel Cost FAQ - Chesapeake, VA
The average cost of solar panels in Chesapeake is approximately $2.85 per watt before incentives. A typical 6kW residential system costs about $17,100 before the 30% federal tax credit, bringing the net cost to around $11,970.
The typical payback period for solar panels in Chesapeake 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.
Chesapeake homeowners can take advantage of the 30% federal solar tax credit, which reduces your system cost by 30%. Virginia also offers net metering, SRECs, and various state-level incentive programs. Check our incentives page for the complete list.
Chesapeake 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 $0.13/kWh in Virginia, solar provides significant long-term savings.
Solar Costs in Other Virginia Cities
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