Solar Panels Cost 11k-21k in Zebulon, NC | October, 2024

Solar Panels Cost $11k-$21k in Zebulon, NC | October, 2024

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How much do solar panels cost in Zebulon, NC in 2024?

In Zebulon, NC in the month of October, 2024 you will pay approximately $3.38/W to get a solar system.

In other words, solar panel installations will cost you about $3,380 per 1000 watts (1 kW) of generation capacity. When you subtract the 30% federal tax credit, you can expect to spend around $11,830 for a 5 kW solar panel install in Zebulon. Please consider, a 5kW system may not be big enough to fully meet your energy needs.

Select your county from the menu on the left to find out the average roof size and maximum residential solar capacity for homes in your area. Outlined below are the price, payback period, and 20-year average savings for a 5 kW system installed in your county.

Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Zebulon: $11,830US Average: $12,562
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Zebulon: 6 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Zebulon: $20,043US Average: $15,784

Solar Potential in Zebulon

Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in
Zebulon.

Roof size 590sq. ft.
Capacity 8.25kW DC
Electricity 10.4kkWh AC per yr.

Electricity Costs in Zebulon, NC & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing

In Zebulon, the typical electric bill is $153.93 per month, with an average consumption of 1,028 kWh. These statistics also reflects the energy consumption patterns of smaller residences, such as apartments.

In October 2024, the electricity rate in Zebulon, NC is 14.97¢ per kWh.

If you’re a typical electricity user in Zebulon, you may require a solar panel system sized at 9 kW or larger to meet your electricity needs. Presently, a 9 kW solar panel system will initially set you back around $30,420, but the 30% tax credit lowers the cost to $21,294.

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Average solar panel costs by system size in Zebulon

To your left, we have provided a detailed cost breakdown for the various solar panel system sizes installed in Zebulon. While a bigger solar installation carries a higher price, it also offers increased electricity savings and larger income tax credits.

The calculator down and to the right gives a detailed summary of solar panel costs and benefits, based on an average electric bill of $153.93 in Zebulon. If you desire tailored results, modify the $153.93 to your average electricity bill amount.

System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,128 a year
Est. Price
$11,830
Savings from a 5kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 7,520 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $94
  • Full payback in 6 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.49 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 114 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 6,164 mi less a year
System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,354 a year
Est. Price
$14,196
Savings from a 6kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 9,024 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $113
  • Full payback in 8 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.99 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 137 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 7,397 mi less a year
System Size 7kW
Roof Size Min. space required
501 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,579 a year
Est. Price
$16,562
Savings from a 7kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 10,528 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $132
  • Full payback in 9 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.49 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 160 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 8,629 mi less a year
System Size 8kW
Roof Size Min. space required
572 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,805 a year
Est. Price
$18,928
Savings from a 8kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 12,032 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $150
  • Full payback in 10 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.98 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 183 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 9,862 mi less a year
System Size 9kW
Roof Size Min. space required
644 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $2,030 a year
Est. Price
$21,294
Savings from a 9kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 13,536 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $154
  • Full payback in 12 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.08 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 187 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 10,098 mi less a year

Zebulon Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024

Rural farmers and small business owners could have between 80% and 100% of their solar or wind turbine installation expenses covered by the REAP Grant. Wondering if you fit this category? Verify your eligibility with our REAP Grant eligibility tool.

The 30% federal income tax credit for residential solar is accessible to nearly all homeowners, which makes solar energy a smart choice in numerous regions nationwide. On top of that, there are numerous state and local incentives to further encourage the adoption of solar energy.

North Carolina has 10 solar incentive and rebate initiatives available through a variety of utilities and government agencies.

Solar incentives in NC

Duke Energy - NC Solar Rebate Program

Value:Up to $50,000

Any Duke Energy Carolinas/Progress customer who installs a new solar photovoltaic system may be entitled to a rebate. The rebate amount is based on the rated capacity of the system. The rebate program's annual budget covers up to 10 MW of solar energy. 5,000 kW of the total budget is reserved for residential customers, while 2,500 kW is reserved for nonprofits. Additional information is available from the Duke Energy website.

Lumbee River EMC - Residential Weatherization Loan Program

Value:Up to $17,000

Residential customers of the Lumbee River Electric Membership Corporation may be entitled to special financing on energy efficiency improvement projects. Available loan offers and eligible projects will vary from time to time. Currently, financing may be obtained for ductwork, windows, water heating, geothermal pumps, and insulation/weatherization. The maximum available principal is $17,000 at market-rate interest. Loans will be secured either with a cosigner or using a deed of trust as collateral. Standard credit checks apply. Additional information is available from the LREMC website.

Piedmont EMC - Residential Solar and Energy Efficiency Loan Program

Value:Varies

Residential and business Piedmont Electric Membership Corporation customers may be eligible for special financing on new solar water heaters or photovoltaic systems. Loans may be available for other energy efficiency improvements. The maximum available principal for a single loan is $10,000 at 5% interest, to be repaid over seven years. Additional information and a directory of banking and lending partners are available from PEMC's website.

PSNC Energy (Gas) - Green Building Rate Discount

Value:Varies

PSNC offers special incentive rates for home and business customers whose property meets sustainable construction standards. Commercial facilities that have official LEED certification from the US Green Building Council and which are currently charged from Rate Schedule 125 will have a standing discount applied to their bills. To qualify, the property owner should submit a statement from the building's engineer attesting to low energy usage. Homes that have ENERGY STAR certification and which are currently using Rate Schedule 101 can switch to Schedule 102 rates that have the discount already applied. To qualify, homeowners should submit a copy of their ENERGY STAR certificate. Additional information is available from the PSNC website.

Haywood EMC - Residential Heat Pump and Weatherization Loan Program

Value:Varies

Homeowners in the Haywood EMC service area may be entitled to special financing on energy efficiency improvements. Eligible projects for a loan will vary from time to time. Currently, loans may fund insulation/weatherization, windows, central/room HVAC, generators, water heaters, heat pumps, ENERGY STAR certified appliances, and new solar PV/HVAC/water heaters. The maximum available principal is $35,000 at variable APR. As of 2021, interest is 3.90% on a 120-month repayment plan. Standard credit checks apply. Additional information is available from the HEMC website.

South River EMC - Solar Water Heating Rebate Program

Value:Varies

Residential and business customers of the South River Electric Membership Corporation may be entitled to rebates on new solar water heaters. The rebate amount will depend on the size and rated capacity of solar collectors. To qualify, both the solar panels and the heating module should meet Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC) standards. The system should be interconnected to the grid and have safety controls to prevent both overheating and freezing. Once a customer purchases and installs their system, they have 90 days to schedule a final utility inspection and thus claim their rebate. Additional information is available from the SREMC website.

Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard

Value:Varies

North Carolina has both a renewable portfolio standard and an energy efficiency portfolio standard; together, they are referred to as "REPS". As of 2021, standard benchmarks require at least 12.5% of the state's retail energy to be generated from renewable sources. At least 60% of standard investment must be through new renewable energy; the remainder can be used for energy efficiency projects. Carve-outs require renewable investment to include a required proportion of solar and poultry/swine waste technologies. Compliance is measured through a Renewable Energy Credit (REC) system pegging a fixed amount of electricity to a variable dollar value. To meet their portion of the standard, utilities must either purchase credits from customers through net metering or generate them using their own renewable energy facilities. Credits expire after three years. Additional information is available from the North Carolina Utilities Commission website.

Blue Ridge EMC - Net Metering

Value:Varies

Residential customers of the Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation may be eligible for solar or wind net metering. Hydroelectric net metering may be available for systems rated below 25 kW. Parties to a net metering contract will be compensated for their net excess generation (NEG) at the full retail rate; however, they may be subject to higher facilities charges and minimum bills. Additional information is available from the BREMC website.

Four-County EMC - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program

Value:Varies

Residential customers of the Four-County Electric Membership Corporation may be entitled to rebates on large appliances. Available rebate offers will vary from time to time. Currently, a flat $50 incentive may be claimed for new fridge/freezers, washer/dryers, dishwashers, and heat pumps at or over 16 SEER. It does not matter whether the appliance is completely new or if it will replace an older unit. To apply, proof of purchase is required. Additional information is available from the FCEMC website.

NC GreenPower Production Incentive

Value:Varies

NOTE: Applications are no longer accepted for small solar devices. NC GreenPower is a public incentive program administered by the state government in partnership with private utilities. The program effectively creates a large-scale power purchasing agreement (PPA) for owners of solar, wind, biomass, and hydroelectric systems not participating in a net metering contract. Participants will receive compensation for the energy they produce and export to the grid at a fixed per-kilowatt rate. Rate schedules depend on what technology is used to generate the energy. Additional information is available through the NC GreenPower website.

Are solar panels worth it in North Carolina?

If you intend to reside in your home beyond the payback period of your solar system, solar panels are an clear choice in Zebulon. With a 5 kW solar system in Zebulon, NC, the average savings over a 20 period is $25,113.2, with break even usually occurring at 6 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in Zebulon, NC

Not installing solar panels or any other backup energy system results in missing the earlier mentioned savings and full dependence on your electric utility for electricity. The news has recently proven that relying entirely on your utility provider isn't always ideal.

In recent years, Zebulon has seen an average of 1.18 utility outages per customer each year. The average length of an outage is 118.28 minutes. However, during significant events such as aging infrastructure, earthquakes or planned maintenance, this duration can grow considerably.

A solar panel system, with or without a backup battery, could reduce the effects of future outages you might experience.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Wake County.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

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What impacts the cost of solar panels in Zebulon, NC?

Your Energy Needs - Despite the higher initial expense, the cost per watt drops when using larger solar panel systems. For most homeowners, setting up a system that can generate enough power to eliminate their entire electric bill is advantageous, providing significant savings.

Make & Model - Solar panels, like many other products, are offered in a variety of makes and models. As the contractor might have particular system preferences, it's important to select a highly rated company. Choosing superior quality materials generally ensures a more satisfying long-term experience for the buyer.

Solar Panel Type - Monocrystalline panels are widely recognized as the standard in the industry, and for good cause. These panels are more expensive but offer a higher energy efficiency. Many installers in the industry utilize panels crafted of this material.

Your Property - Uneven ground, trees, or additional challenges can increase the difficulty of the installation. The majority of solar installers today are able to utilize satellite imagery to evaluate your home and factor in these aspects in the first cost estimate.

Labor Rates - Various wages are paid to employees by various companies, and these costs are transferred to the consumers. Higher wages often correlate with better reviews for companies' work and customer service.

Permitting & Interconnection - Permitting and utility interconnection fees change locally and will impact your installation cost. That said, reputable local installers will be able to incorporate these numbers into your initial quotes so there are no surprises.

See what solar panels cost in other NC cities

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Who are the best solar installers in Zebulon?

Freedom Forever

Temecula, CA(800) 685-1850

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Eagle Solar and Light

Birmingham, AL(205) 202-2208

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Academy Energy Group

Newburgh, IN(812) 518-2150

Services

  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.

8MSolar

Wake Forest, NC(919) 372-0315

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.

Yes Solar Solutions

Cary, NC(919) 925-4707

Services

  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Powur PBC

Del Mar, CA(866) 467-6987

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Micrometer Engineering

Scottsdale, AZ(602) 790-5749

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Renu Energy Solutions

Charlotte, NC(336) 565-7291

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of batteries.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

IonSOLAR

Provo, UT(888) 781-7074

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

SolFarm Solar co.

Asheville, NC(828) 332-3003

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Go Solar Power

Boca Raton, FL(800) 530-9597

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

SunPro Solar

Mandeville, LA(866) 599-3643

Services

  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Power Home Solar

Mooresville, NC(704) 870-3670

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Solar Energy World

Elkridge CDP, MD(866) 856-4580

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Palmetto Solar

Charleston, SC(855) 339-1831

Services

  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Entero Energy

Austin, TX(512) 551-0742

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

SunPower Corporation

San Jose, CA(800) 786-7693

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Silver Sun Solar

Deltona, FL(340) 227-7785

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Cape Fear Solar Systems

Wilmington, NC(910) 409-5533

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Sunnova Energy

Houston, TX(866) 786-6682

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Sigora Solar

Charlottesville, VA(434) 465-6192

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

SunVolt Electric

Boone, NC(828) 773-2008

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Entegrity

Little Rock, AR(800) 700-1414

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

PE Solar

Tempe, AZ(480) 264-0690

Services

  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

City Electric Supply

Dallas, TX(866) 634-9853

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

PowerHome Solar

Mooresville, NC(704) 870-3670

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

NC Solar Now

Raleigh, NC(919) 833-9096

Services

  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

R&C Construction Solar

Greer, SC(888) 748-9165

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Precision Renewables

Snyderville CDP, UT(435) 602-4120

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Atomic Solar Energy

Burnsville, NC(866) 704-1187

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Zebulon, NC Solar Panel Cost FAQs

  • As of October, 2024, the average per-watt cost for solar panels in Zebulon, NC is $3.38/W. The cost of installing a 5 kW solar panel system in Zebulon, NC is about $11,830 post federal tax credit.
  • Utilities and government agencies in North Carolina are currently offering 10 different rebates and incentives. Furthermore, the majority of people qualify for the 30% federal tax credit.
  • While paying cash provides the highest savings, there are now various financing options for solar panels that are also financially advantageous. Many installers will include information about their financing partners in the initial quotes they provide.
  • Yes, homeowners in Zebulon, NC generally see a payback time of 6 years for 5 kW solar panel systems, with electricity savings averaging $25,113.2 over a 20-year period.
Ginalyn Gelera
Last Reviewed By: Ginalyn Gelera
Published: 2024-10-01