Solar Panel Cost in Wilmington, NC
Updated 2026 guide to solar panel prices, savings, and payback period in Wilmington.
Estimated Solar Savings
Solar Panel System Costs in Wilmington, NC
Below are estimated costs for different solar panel system sizes in Wilmington, 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 Wilmington?
The average cost of solar panels in Wilmington, 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.Wilmington homeowners typically see a payback period of 8 years and save an estimated $30,000 over 25 years.
Factors that affect your cost in Wilmington:
- 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 Wilmington metro area
- Local permits: Permitting costs and requirements vary by municipality in Wilmington
- Incentives: State and local programs can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost
Solar Incentives Available in Wilmington
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit
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 AvailableGet Your Free Solar Quote
No obligation • Compare top installers
Ready to go solar?
Get free quotes from top installers in your area
Top Solar Companies in Wilmington, NC
Affordable Solar Roof & Air
Sunergy Solutions LLC
Green Power Energy
Solar Panel Cost FAQ - Wilmington, NC
The average cost of solar panels in Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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.
Wilmington 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.
Wilmington 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
Start Saving with Solar Today
Join thousands of homeowners who've switched to clean energy
Get Your Free Quote