What Makes North Carolina a Leading Solar State?
According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, North Carolina currently ranks 2nd in the nation for its solar policies and performance. But how did it manage to earn that standing? In this article, we’ll go over the variety of factors have helped North Carolina become one of the USA’s most welcoming places for solar energy.
Top Stats North Carolina boasts impressive solar numbers. The state has installed over 5,260 MW of solar power, surpassing all but California, which has long been the country’s solar capitol. This wattage is enough to power more than 635,150 homes. It’s expected that NC will add at least 3,939 more MW over the next 5 years. Other noteworthy stats: ● Solar investments total $7.75 billion ● 5.37% of the state’s energy is solar-sourced ● There are over 6,700 solar jobs available
A Growing Demand for Solar North Carolina has done well at recognizing the fact that its citizens want solar energy. A recent survey conducted by Conservatives for Clean Energy (CCE) found that the state’s public support for renewables is strong and continues to grow. Key findings in this poll include: ● 85% of NC voters (including 76% of Republicans) are more likely to support political candidates who support renewable energy options such as wind, solar, and waste to energy technologies. ● 77% of those surveyed believe that renewables represent technological advancement and should be expanded within NC. ● 78% find the current utilities system to be outdated - they want more competition and innovation to present new and diverse energy options.
Current Solar Policies Surveys like that done by the CCE have shown NC politicians that renewable energy is an important topic to the state’s voters. As a result, the government has adopted an increasing number of policies that promote renewable energy, such as solar programs and incentives.
Solar Leasing In the summer of 2017, the NC government signed a bill that expanded the state’s solar market in a number of ways. Not only did the bill bring promise of many new solar jobs and increased competition, but it also gave NC homeowners the option to lease solar systems. Having this option makes solar much more accessible to the state’s residents.
Property Tax Exemptions North Carolina’s property tax laws exempt 80% of the appraised value of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system. There is also the possibility for full exemption of residential solar systems that aren’t used to generate income or in connection with a business.
Net Metering and Alternatives Net metering is available to NC residents who have solar systems with capacities up to 1 MW, and who are customers of Duke Energy Carolinas, Duke Energy Progress, and Dominion North Carolina Power. Additionally, the non-profit NC GreenPower serves as a net metering alternative to the state’s residents. Their program compensates homeowners for extra energy production, offering $0.06/kWh, plus approximately $0.04/kWh from their utility company. This comes out to a total compensation of $0.10/kWh.
Source More Solar Installation Leads in North Carolina All of the stats and initiatives covered above demonstrate why NC is a place where solar installation businesses can flourish. There are countless homeowners throughout the state who are eager to take advantage of the government’s abundant benefits for solar. Here at Grid Freedom, we make it easy for contractors to connect with serious solar buyers in North Carolina, as well as the rest of the nation. Our leads are 100% exclusive and filtered through a meticulous qualification process, ensuring high ROI and greater sales success. Get Your NC Solar Leads at www.GridFreedom.com
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