North Carolina Solar Incentives (2026): Rebates & Net Metering

1) Utility Rebates and Solar + Battery Incentives (Duke Energy Territories)

If you're in Duke Energy Carolinas or Duke Energy Progress territory, you may see incentive opportunities tied to either a one-time solar rebate, and/or a solar + battery program (often marketed as PowerPair) that pays an incentive in exchange for specific enrollment and operational requirements.

Because availability, enrollment windows, and technical requirements can change, treat utility program terms as "current offer details" rather than a permanent benefit and confirm them before you sign a contract.

2) Net Metering and Net Billing Credits (How Exports Are Valued)

North Carolina's net metering landscape changed for Duke customers. The NC Utilities Commission approved revised net metering tariffs, and the state's Public Staff explains the structure clearly: the prior residential net metering rider (Rider NM) closed to new customers after September 30, 2023. Newer options include Rider RSC (Residential Solar Choice) and Rider NMB (Net Metering Bridge).

Under the newer riders, monthly exported energy is credited at a Net Excess Energy Credit (NEEC) rate based on avoided cost, and some riders introduce additional charges (like a minimum bill and other non-bypassable charges).

This is why "net metering" in North Carolina can mean different bill outcomes depending on when you apply, which rider you're on, and which territory you're served by.

3) Property Tax Treatment for Solar Equipment

North Carolina has historically excluded a portion of a solar energy electric system's appraised value from property tax, but lawmakers have proposed changes that reduce the exclusion over time. If you're budgeting long-term savings, it's worth checking the current percentage that applies for your project's taxable year.

To claim the exclusion (when applicable), counties generally rely on state guidance and forms. The NC Department of Revenue's AV-10 application references the solar energy electric system exclusion under G.S. 105-275(45).

4) Federal Solar Tax Credit Status for 2026

For many years, the federal residential credit (Section 25D) was a major driver of solar economics. For 2026 planning, the key update is simple: the IRS states the Residential Clean Energy Credit is not available for property placed in service after December 31, 2025.

If your system was placed in service on or before that date, you may still be able to claim it subject to IRS rules. If you're installing in 2026, you should plan as though this particular federal credit will not reduce your price.

Net Metering in North Carolina: What Changed and Why It Matters

If you're served by Duke Energy, your export credit value is no longer a one-size-fits-all concept. The NC Public Staff notes that revised riders became effective for residential customers starting October 1, 2023, and highlights major differences such as:

• Rider RSC requiring Time-Of-Use with Critical Peak Pricing
• Rider NMB operating as a limited-availability "bridge" option with a time-limited participation period (up to 15 years from interconnection request date), plus transition rules for older Rider NM customers

Practical takeaway: when comparing quotes, ask each installer which rider you're expected to land on and have them estimate savings using your likely rate structure (including minimum bills or add-on charges that net credits can't offset).

Solar Installation Basics (And How Incentives Connect)

A typical Solar Installation still follows a similar path statewide:

1. Site assessment and shading/roof review
2. System design and proposal (including production estimate)
3. Permitting and utility interconnection application
4. Installation and inspection
5. Utility approval to operate (PTO) and system turn-on

In North Carolina, incentives and net billing value are tightly linked to steps 3–5, because your utility tariff, interconnection timing, and final "placed in service" date can affect what you receive and when.

What Are Needed for Solar Installation in North Carolina?

Homeowners and small businesses usually move faster (and avoid surprise costs) when they prepare for these common requirements:

Roof and Site Suitability

Your roof should have usable life left, adequate structural condition, and manageable shading. If a reroof is likely soon, doing it before panels are installed can prevent later removal and reinstall costs.

Electrical Panel and Service Capacity

Older panels or limited service capacity can trigger an upgrade. That can affect both project timeline and out-of-pocket cost, so it should be identified during the site visit.

Permits, HOA Rules, and Inspections

Most projects need local permits and inspections. If you have an HOA or historic district requirements, build in extra time for approvals.

Utility Interconnection Paperwork

Interconnection is not just a formality—your net metering/net billing rider, meter setup, and permission to operate come from this process. The NC Public Staff overview is a helpful reference for how net metering works and why credits may not offset every line item on your bill.

Documentation to Claim Incentives

For utility rebates, keep the full contract, proof of payment, equipment specs, and confirmation of program enrollment and approval. For property tax exclusion filings (when applicable), counties may require documentation consistent with state guidance such as the AV-10 process referenced by NCDOR.

How to Evaluate Solar Companies Without Getting Lost in the Fine Print

When you're comparing Solar Companies, incentives don't replace good fundamentals—they amplify them. Focus on:

• Whether quotes model your actual utility rate and rider (not a generic "net metering" assumption)
• Clear production assumptions (azimuth, tilt, shading) and a conservative degradation estimate
• Warranty terms (equipment + workmanship) and service response expectations
• How the installer handles interconnection, inspections, and rebate paperwork
• Battery value proposition under your tariff (especially if export credits are reduced)

A quote that looks cheaper can be more expensive long-term if it assumes overly generous bill credits that your rider doesn't provide.

FAQ: North Carolina Solar Incentives (2026)