Solar payback in North Carolina

4.9 peak sun hours/day average. Residential electricity rate: 16.25¢/kWh.

Estimated payback by system size

Installed cost at 2.75$/W, accounting for 20% system-loss derate (inverter, wiring, soiling, temperature).

SystemAnnual kWhAnnual SavingsInstalled CostPayback
4 kW5,727 kWh$930.66$11,00011.8 years
6 kW8,591 kWh$1,395.99$16,50011.8 years
8 kW11,454 kWh$1,861.31$22,00011.8 years

Important notes

No incentives assumed: The federal residential solar investment tax credit ended after 2025. Some states and utilities still offer rebates or performance-based incentives; check with your utility.

Full self-consumption or net metering: Savings assume you use all generation on-site or export at retail rates via net metering. Some utilities buy surplus power at wholesale rates, which would reduce savings.

Your site specifics matter: Roof shade, orientation, system degradation, and your actual utility tariff (demand charges, time-of-use rates, fixed fees) can significantly change payback.

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Electricity rates in North Carolina