The Hot Facts on Solar Energy in North Carolina
The
Hot
Facts
on
Solar
Energy
in
North
Carolina
Did you know that North Carolina is one of the top 10 US states with the highest electricity consumption? Fortunately, though, The Tar Heel State is also a leading generator of solar power.
The latter proves that it’s possible to reap the benefits of solar energy in North Carolina.
So, if you’re still on the fence about going solar in NC, then this guide is for you. Read on to discover the top facts about this renewable energy and why you should make the switch.
Solar Capacity Enough to Power Almost a Million Homes
As of the third quarter of 2021, North Carolina’s solar capacity totaled 7,460.2 megawatts (MW). That’s enough to power 959,264 homes in the state. What’s more, The Tar Heel State has plans to add 2,400 MW more within the next five years.
More Sunny Days Than the US Average
On average, the US experiences 205 sunny days every year. By contrast, North Carolina enjoys 213 sunny days annually. That alone makes it one of the most excellent locations to go solar.
More than that, The Tar Heel State also enjoys an average of 4 to 4.5 peak sun hours a day. A peak sun hour, in turn, is one hour at which the sun’s intensity reaches 1,000 W/m². During this period, solar panels generate the most energy.
For comparison, Texas, which has the second-largest solar capacity, also gets at least 4.5 peak sun hours a day.
Solar Incentives Abound
One of the solar incentives in North Carolina is the state property tax exemption. There’s also net metering, which credits you for extra electricity your panels produce.
Local utility companies are also offering rebates, including Duke Energy. Check out this guide to view site areas where this money-saving program is available.
Don’t forget the federal solar investment tax credit, which Congress extended until 2023.
Thanks to that, you can still get a 26% tax credit if you install your solar panels in NC on or before December 31, 2022. That then drops to 22% for systems put in place on or before December 31, 2023. Come 2024; the ITC will expire unless Congress renews it once again.
Solar Energy in NC Can Help Reduce Air Pollution
North Carolina’s primary air pollutants are particle pollution and ground-level ozone (AKA smog). Both are primarily from vehicle emissions and coal-based electricity.
Unfortunately, as mentioned above, NC is among the top 10 electricity-consuming states. So the more fossil fuel-based energy the state uses, the more it is at risk for air pollution.
The good news is that solar energy doesn’t produce the same air pollutants as burning coal. After all, solar panels don’t combust anything to generate power.
So, by going solar in North Carolina, you can do your part in helping keep its air clean.
Time to Make the Switch to Solar Energy in North Carolina
There you have it, the most interesting facts you need to know about solar energy in North Carolina. Now you know the state is solar-friendly, thanks to its many sunny days and solar incentives. More than that, going solar in NC can help you save both your money and the environment.
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