Top 10 Cities for Solar in Utah
When narrowing down the 10 cities leading Utah's charge toward clean energy, we looked at sources including solar power generation data from the Energy Information Administration, maps from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the latest Shining Cities report from Environment America.
Based on this data, the following are the top cities for solar in Utah:
- Salt Lake City
- Provo
- Park City
- St. George
- Ogden
- Alta
- Castle Valley
- Orem
- Springdale
- Logan
EcoWatch
1. Salt Lake City
According to the Shining Cities report, Salt Lake City is one of the brightest "solar stars" in the nation. The report ranks the city No. 11 in the country for per-capita solar installation, or watts of DC current per person. It's also one of more than two dozen Utah municipalities that have pledged to use net-100% renewable energy by the year 2030.
2. Provo
Provo, south of Salt Lake City, is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the entire U.S. — and it's certainly a good place for solar enthusiasts. NREL maps show that consistent year-round sun exposure makes Provo well-suited for residential solar installation.
3. Park City
Park City is another municipality that has pledged to use 100% renewable energy by the year 2030, and it has a separate goal of using 100% renewable electricity for all city operations by 2022. To incentivize homeowners to go solar, the city has waived all building permit and site inspection fees for new solar installations.
4. St. George
Located close to the Arizona border, St. George is a city filled with sand dunes, desert vistas and, of course, plenty of sunlight to keep solar panels humming. In fact, the city gets an average of 255 sunny days per year — 50 more days than the average U.S. city.
5. Ogden
This ski hub and outdoor mountain town is another municipality taking steps toward solar adoption. Ogden City Council recently voted to enter Utah's program to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2030.
6. Alta
Another snowy, ski-lovers paradise, Alta is also part of the pledge to use net-100% renewable energy by the year 2030. It has already installed nearly 100 solar panels on ski patrol structures, ski shops and government buildings.
7. Castle Valley
Castle Valley, just east of Utah's iconic Arches National Park, is another solar leader. In 2017, Castle Valley became the first city in the state to use 100% renewable energy, generating all of its electricity through solar panels and renewable energy credits from Rocky Mountain Power.
8. Orem
Orem is home to the corporate headquarters of Blue Raven Solar, one of the top solar companies not only in Utah, but in many other parts of the U.S. as well. As a municipality, it has also pledged to use 100% renewable energy by 2030.
9. Springdale
The gateway to Zion National Park, Springdale is a more tourist-driven town. But it has signed on as a participant in Utah's program to transition to 100% renewables by 2030. Inside the park, photovoltaic panels have already been installed on the south-facing roof of the visitors center, and the Zion Lodge has a solar array and a thermal solar water heater installed as well.
10. Logan
Logan, located in the northern part of the state, has its own net metering program that residents are able to enroll in after installing solar panels. It also has a Green Power Program, which allows Logan City Light & Power customers to purchase "green blocks" of renewable energy at a rate of $2 per 100 kWh.
Where Solar Panels Work Best
There are a few factors that can make a city particularly well-suited for solar installation. Of course, the most important factor is the amount of sunlight the city gets from season to season. Utah's cities tend to fare pretty well in this regard, even the more mountainous and snowy locations.
Something else that makes a city well-suited for solar power is high energy costs. If a city has expensive electricity, then homeowners tend to save more money by switching to solar. By contrast, if utilities are already low, solar savings will be more modest.
Average Utah Electricity Costs
The average household monthly consumption of electricity is 727 kWh in Utah, while the average monthly residential electric bill is $75.63. This is by far the lowest rate of any state in the region, well behind neighboring states such as Arizona ($126.09 per month), Nevada ($106.83) and even New Mexico ($80.04).
Utah Solar Tax Incentives
Utah residents have a number of financial incentives for investing in solar power beyond their month-to-month utility savings. Specifically, Utah offers a residential solar tax credit. However, this credit is phasing out, which means the value of the credit isn't as high as it used to be.
For installations completed in 2021, the maximum tax credit will be $1,200. In the year to come, the tax credit will be capped at $800. In 2023, it will go down to $400. After that, unless the state's legislature extends the credit, the program will be phased out completely.
Also note that Utah offers net metering, which means that if your solar panels generate more electricity than you really need, you can feed it back into the power grid in exchange for credits.
Federal Solar Tax Credits
In Utah, as in the rest of the country, homeowners can also claim a 26% tax credit when they install a residential solar system. This credit exists to make solar installation more affordable and more widely accessible.
Utah Solar Regulations
Though Utah does not have a ton of solar regulations to be aware of, there are a couple that are worth noting:
- Senate Bill 154 limits the power of homeowners associations to restrict solar installations within their communities.
- Utah also has laws to protect solar easements, which are written agreements between property owners to protect long-term access to sunlight.
Final Thoughts: Top Cities for Solar in Utah
Utah is a city leading the charge toward solar in the U.S., but there's always room for improvement. If your city didn't make our top list of solar stars in Utah, there are a few ways to raise your area's solar profile. These include:
- Installing a solar PV system on your own roof
- Educating your neighbors about the benefits of solar energy
- If your city has not already joined Utah's commitment to 100% renewable energy, contact your elected officials to urge for stricter goals
Top 10 Cities for Solar in Virginia
When narrowing down the top cities for solar in Virginia, EcoWatch took into consideration solar power generation data from the Energy Information Institute, maps on solar irradiance and potential from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, local government websites and Environment America's latest Shining Cities report.
Based on this information, the top cities for solar in Virginia are as follows:
- Richmond
- Virginia Beach
- Alexandria
- Norfolk
- Roanoke
- Fairfax
- Charlottesville
- Newport News
- Danville
- Blacksburg
EcoWatch
1. Richmond
Virginia's capital city ranks first in the state and 49th in the nation for total solar PV installations. According to the Shining Cities report, there are over 22 watts of solar installed per person in Richmond.
2. Virginia Beach
Although Virginia Beach is better-known for its large offshore wind energy farm, the popular tourist destination ranks second in Virginia and 61st in the nation for total solar PV installations. There are currently over five watts installed per person, per the Shining Cities report.
3. Alexandria
Alexandria earned a SolSmart Gold designation in July 2020, which is the highest designation given by the program. The city also boasts an impressive portfolio of new and promising renewable energy programs, solar feasibility studies and more.
4. Norfolk
NREL's Solar for All maps show that Norfolk boasts one of the highest potentials for solar energy generation and roof-mount capacity. Major corporations have already adopted solar in the area — the IKEA store in Norfolk even features a 180,000-square-foot solar array.
5. Roanoke
In 2012, Roanoke participated in the U.S. Department of Energy's Better Buildings Challenge with the goal of curbing energy use by 20% across 1 million square feet of building space by 2022. In 2018, Roanoke achieved that goal with a 23% energy reduction. The city remains committed to clean energy, as evidenced by its impressive Solarize Roanoke project.
6. Fairfax
Fairfax has also been designated a SolSmart Gold city and has its own Solarize Fairfax County initiative. This project, which gives residents access to free solar assessments, bulk-purchasing discounts, discounted solar batteries and more, has concluded for the 2021 season but may well return in 2022.
7. Charlottesville
In addition to a city-specific solar tax credit and a Solarize Charlottesville program, the city has started putting solar panels on government buildings. Among the solarized buildings are Charlottesville High School, the City Facilities Maintenance Building and the ecoREMOD Energy House.
8. Newport News
This coastal city receives a lot of sunshine… some 215 days a year, in fact. It's no surprise, then, that NREL maps show a high capacity for rooftop solar and an above-average number of buildings suitable for solar.
9. Danville
According to NREL data, Danville has a high potential for rooftop solar capacity and generation, and the city is doing its part to help residents make the switch to clean energy. It has developed its own net metering program for residential solar installations up to 10 kW, as well as invested in two solar farms that are producing about 10 MW of energy to be used by Danville Utilities customers.
10. Blacksburg
In March of 2014, Blacksburg became the first community in Virginia to launch a Solarize campaign, and NREL maps show it has a high potential for solar generation. This SolSmart Silver city offers many solar-focused resources for residents, including a solar panel installation checklist, information for those interested in solar jobs and guidance on solar access within the state.
Where Solar Panels Work Best
While there are many solar-smart cities in Virginia, some are better suited than others for PV installation. The best cities for solar include those that have:
- Decent sun exposure: Cities that get consistent year-round sunlight tend to be good places to invest in solar, hence the coastal communities we've included on our list.
- High local utility costs: Solar power tends to be more valuable in cities that have high electrical costs. More on that in a moment.
- Local rebates and incentives: Some cities make solar investment more attractive by implementing local net metering programs, tax rebates or other financial incentives.
Average Virginia Electricity Costs
As mentioned, residents in places with higher electricity costs stand to benefit more from installing solar panels. In Virginia, the average monthly electrical consumption is 1,122 kWh, which is roughly on par with nearby states such as South Carolina and West Virginia, though a bit higher than in Maryland or Washington, D.C. The average monthly electric bill is $135.46, which is on the high side compared to most neighboring states.
Virginia Solar Tax Incentives
Homeowners in Virginia can take advantage of a few solar tax exemptions and incentives to help offset the cost of solar panels. For example, there is a property tax exemption, which means that although solar panels will increase the value of a home, they will not increase your property taxes. Virginia also has a state-wide net metering program, which means that any surplus energy generated by solar panels can be fed back into the electric grid in exchange for credits from your utility company.
Federal Solar Tax Credits
Homeowners in Virginia (and anywhere else in the country) can also claim a residential federal tax credit worth 26% of their total solar installation cost. This can offset the initial investment expenditure considerably, but keep in mind that this credit may be phased out by 2023 unless Congress acts swiftly to renew it.
Virginia Solar Regulations
There are a few laws that impact solar adoption in Virginia. Some notable examples include:
- The Solar Rights law protects the rights of homeowners to install solar panels, without being obstructed by their homeowners association or other community association. HOAs do have some leeway to regulate the aesthetics of solar installations, however.
- Virginia's Zero Carbon Bill will create more than 30,000 solar jobs by the year 2030.
- The Virginia Clean Economy Act is set to create a number of new incentives for homeowners to go solar. It also creates robust clean energy standards for utility companies and fines providers unable to meet those standards.
Final Thoughts: Top Cities for Solar in Virginia
Solar energy presents a valuable opportunity for homeowners to lower electric bills, reduce their impact on the environment and become less dependent on traditional utilities. However, in Virginia, some cities are more solar-forward than others. If you didn't see your city on this list (and even if you did), there are plenty of ways individuals can push for more solar power in their areas. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Install solar panels on your home
- Educate your neighbors about the benefits of solar energy
- Reach out to your elected officials and urge them to set strict renewable energy goals
Top 10 Cities for Solar in New York
EcoWatch narrowed down these cities based on solar power generation data compiled by the Energy Information Administration, annual solar irradiance and Solar For All maps from National Renewable Energy Laboratory, and the most recent Shining Cities report from Environment America.
Based on this research, here are the top 10 cities for solar energy in New York:
- New York City
- Buffalo
- Brookhaven
- Huntington
- Hempstead
- Amherst
- Rochester
- Syracuse
- Yonkers
- Oyster Bay
EcoWatch
1. New York City
It's no surprise that magnificent New York City leads solar panel installation in the Empire State. According to Environment America, New York City is ranked No. 6 in the entire country for total installed solar PV capacity, coming in just behind Los Angeles, San Diego, Honolulu, Phoenix and San Antonio.
2. Buffalo
The Shining Cities report lists Buffalo as another of the nation's solar leaders, as it has over 30 watts installed solar PV per person. Overall, it ranks 40th in the U.S. for total installed solar wattage.
3. Brookhaven
A coastal suburb of New York City, Brookhaven gets a decent amount of exposure to the sun all year long, making it ideally positioned for solar investment. It is also home to the Long Island Solar Farm, one of the largest photovoltaic arrays on the East Coast.
4. Huntington
Huntington, on Long Island, gets plenty of natural light year-round, meaning it's a good place to commit to solar power. According to NREL maps, Huntington is located within the portion of the state that has the highest potential for solar power generation in the state of New York.
5. Hempstead
Southwest of Huntington, Hempstead is another high-sunlight city, and both residents and the local government have taken advantage of this with investments in clean, renewable energy. The city installed a number of solar-powered electric vehicle charging stations, as well as a solar- and wind-powered shellfish nursery to improve the area's clam beds.
6. Amherst
One of the most populous cities in the state, Amherst is full of solar adopters who have committed heavily to solar energy. The town is located in western New York and has made leaps toward embracing solar on public buildings. It currently has solar arrays that power a community center and a water pollution control facility, and it is now looking to install panels at other government buildings, police stations, libraries and more.
7. Rochester
Located on Lake Ontario, this old industrial town has one of the state's highest potentials for solar generation, according to NREL maps. It also has an above-average number of single-family homes that are already well-suited for solar PV installations.
8. Syracuse
Syracuse is one of the cloudiest cities in the U.S., but luckily, solar panels still work on cloudy days. The Upstate New York city is quickly becoming a hotspot for solar energy, with multiple companies proposing solar farms in Syracuse suburbs.
9. Yonkers
The city recently launched a partnership with nonprofits Sustainable Westchester and Groundwork Hudson Valley to launch five community solar projects throughout the city. This will give residents up to 10% off their electricity bills while also making strides toward a greener local energy supply.
10. Oyster Bay
Situated on the north shore of Long Island, Oyster Bay gets enough sun exposure to make it a great place for solar power. It's located next to Huntington, and NREL maps show it shares the city's high potential for solar power generation.
Where Solar Panels Work Best
What makes a community especially well-suited for solar power?
There are a couple of important factors to consider. One, of course, is exposure to sunlight throughout the course of the year. New York isn't quite as sun-soaked as, say, Arizona, Texas or Florida. With that said, there are a number of communities in New York that get decent solar exposure — enough to make solar energy viable.
Also, it doesn't have to be hot outside for solar panels to produce energy. In fact, solar panels, like most appliances, work most efficiently in cooler temperatures.
Another consideration is local electricity costs. In places where utilities are expensive, homeowners can realize big savings when they switch to solar. But when electricity is already pretty inexpensive, solar savings tend to be more modest.
Average New York Electricity Costs
So, how much does electrical power cost in the state of New York?
According to data from the EIA, New York's annual monthly consumption of electricity is 577 kWh, which is actually quite a bit less than in neighboring states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The average monthly cost of electricity is $103.60; again, this is less than in neighboring states, but only slightly.
New York Solar Tax Incentives
One of the reasons why New York is such a great state for solar is that there are so many financial incentives available. In fact, it's one of the top states for solar tax incentives in the U.S.
Start with the net metering program. The statewide net metering program allows homeowners to feed any surplus power their panels generate back into the electrical grid. This results in financial credits that can be used when they need to pull energy from the grid, such as to power their homes at night.
Additional tax incentives available to New York homeowners include:
- NY-Sun Megawatt Block incentive: This New York State incentive allows homeowners to claim a dollars-per-watt ($/W) cash rebate for their systems.
- Solar Energy System Equipment Credit: Residents can deduct up to $5,000 or 25% of total solar energy expenses (whichever is lower) from their taxes. This is available for homeowners who are leasing solar panels as well.
- State sales tax exemption: Homeowners do not pay the state's 4% sales tax when they purchase solar equipment.
Federal Solar Tax Incentives
It's also important to note that all Americans can claim the federal solar tax credit, which is worth 26% of their total investment. This credit exists to make the cost of solar panels even more accessible to homeowners.
New York Solar Regulations
New York State has a number of laws on the books that pertain to solar energy, and for the most part, they all represent a significant commitment to clean, renewable power sources. One good example is the Accelerated Renewable Energy Growth Act, which calls for large-scale solar projects throughout the state. Another is the praiseworthy NY-Sun program, which offers incentives to communities that wish to develop shared solar resources and community solar programs.
And last but certainly not least, there's the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which was signed into law by Gov. Andrew Cuomo in July 2019 and requires New York to obtain 70% of its electricity from renewable energy sources by 2030.
Final Thoughts: Top Cities for Solar in New York
The Empire State's commitment to renewable energy shines through its gracious financial incentives and many cities pivoting toward solar power.
If your city didn't earn a spot on our list of the top cities for solar in New York, there are a few things you can do to increase your area's solar profile. For example, you can urge your elected officials to adopt renewable energy goals, educate your neighbors on the benefits of solar and, of course, install a solar PV system on your own rooftop.
By doing these things, you can impact the future of clean energy in New York.
Top 10 Cities for Solar in Florida
To narrow down the top cities for solar energy in Florida, our team compiled and examined reports generated by the SEIA and Energy Information Administration, solar generation maps from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the latest Shining Cities report from Environment America.
Based on our research, we have deemed the following 10 cities to be hubs for solar energy in Florida:
- Jacksonville
- Tampa
- Orlando
- Miami
- Fort Myers
- Fort Lauderdale
- West Palm Beach
- Melbourne
- St. Petersburg
- Winter Park
EcoWatch
1. Jacksonville
Taking the top spot on our list of top cities for solar in Florida is Jacksonville. In the latest Shining Cities report, Jax ranked No. 13 in the country for total installed solar PV capacity, outranking places including Austin, Texas; San Francisco; and New Orleans. The city has implemented a number of programs to make solar more accessible to its residents, including a rebate of $4,000 per home on solar battery purchases.
2. Tampa
Tampa is another solar leader in the Sunshine State, boasting a solar installation rate that averages out to 42 watts per resident (as of December 2019). With an average of 246 sunny days annually, the city is well situated to truly reap the benefits of solar. Summers are hot, and while the area is humid in certain months, the winter and early spring are mild and dry.
3. Orlando
Orlando comes in just below Tampa with about 35 watts of solar PV per person through the end of 2019. Nestled snug in the middle of the state, the city is exposed to ample sunshine year-round, making solar energy a natural choice to combat high traditional electric bills, and residents have eagerly embraced the utility cost savings that solar can offer.
4. Miami
The southernmost city on this list, Miami has a tropical climate with pleasantly warm winters and long and muggy summers — as well as plenty of sun. Yes, the area gets its share of rain, but that doesn't stand in the way of solar being a great investment for residents. The city of Miami is fast-tracking its solar panel installation: It has about 10 watts installed per person, and that number is steadily increasing.
5. Fort Myers
NREL maps show Fort Myers has one of the most highly concentrated potentials for rooftop solar generation in the state. Something else that makes this Southwest Florida city stand out is its proximity to Babcock Ranch, the first solar-powered town in America. The planned community is located just 25 miles north of Fort Myers.
6. Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, receives over 3,000 hours of yearly sunshine. And rightfully so, the city has recognized the need to harness the power of natural sunlight to produce clean energy. Fort Lauderdale is an active participant in the GoSolar Broward Rooftop Solar Challenge, which is focused on making it easier and more affordable for homeowners to install rooftop solar PV, and has local financing programs and community co-ops to help lower the cost of solar panels.
7. West Palm Beach
Just north of Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach benefits from a tropical climate and abundant sunshine year-round. The city has embraced multiple forms of clean energy and is focused on phasing out oil and coal, while simultaneously boosting solar usage. West Palm Beach seeks to employ at least 30 million solar panels by 2030.
8. Melbourne
Melbourne is another coastal Florida city that soaks up sunshine all year long. NREL maps show this area has an above-average number of buildings suitable for solar installation, and residents have been cashing in on their prime positioning. One reason for this may be that the average solar investment comes with a sizable return — according to Google's Project Sunroof, Melbourne residents stand to save $8,000 over 20 years after buying solar panels.
9. St. Petersburg
Situated in West Florida just south of Tampa, St. Pete has been nicknamed "The Sunshine City," averaging 361 days of sunshine each year. In fact, the city set a Guinness World Record between 1967 and 1969 for logging 768 days of sunshine. Knowing that, it's probably no surprise NREL maps show the area as having one of the state's highest potentials for rooftop solar energy generation.
10. Winter Park
Winter Park, located just outside of Orlando, was the first city in Central Florida to offer residents PACE financing for solar panels — and its commitment to solar energy has only continued to expand. Recently, the City of Winter Park was even awarded a SolSmart Gold designation for its strides toward renewable energy and its efforts to make installations faster, easier and more affordable for residents.
Where Solar Panels Make the Most Sense
Solar panels generally work best in cities that have regular and constant exposure to sunlight on an annual basis. Additionally, areas where winters tend to be shorter and less harsh stand to benefit more from solar energy. This alone demonstrates why there are so many solar-embracing cities all across Florida.
Renewable energy systems are also more attractive in cities that have adopted incentives for their residents, such as Jacksonville's solar battery rebate program. Many cities that didn't make our top 10 list offer solar rebates and low-interest loan programs, including Longwood, Tallahassee and Lauderhill.
Another factor that goes into where solar makes sense is local energy costs. Generally speaking, Florida's energy costs are high, which makes an investment in solar energy a worthy choice. If this were not the case, and the cost of energy wasn't above average, then the benefits associated with solar energy would be reduced.
Average Florida Electricity Costs
According to the EIA, the average monthly electric bill for a Florida resident is $129.65, with normal monthly consumption totaling 1,108 kWh. Comparing these numbers to other South Atlantic states, Florida is one of the clear leaders in terms of cost and consumption, making solar energy a natural choice for reducing bills as well as minimizing traditional energy output.
Florida Solar Tax Incentives
When considering solar energy, it is also important to learn about any tax rebates or incentives that are provided by the state. Along with city-specific programs, all Florida homeowners can benefit from the following statewide incentives:
| Florida Solar Incentive | Details |
| Property Tax Exemption |
Installing a solar panel system will up the value of your home,
but this mandate ensures you won't have to pay higher property taxes due to the increased value. |
| Sales Tax Exemption |
Florida's 6% sales tax is not applied to the purchase of solar
panels or related installation equipment. |
Also worth noting is Florida's net metering program. This is one of the most important regulatory policies pertaining to residential solar owners in Florida. It allows a homeowner to sell excess solar energy that is generated by the grid, resulting in a cost savings.
Federal Solar Tax Credits
On a federal level, Florida residents who invest in solar can also receive a 26% federal solar investment tax credit (ITC). This applies to people who buy their PV system outright either through a cash purchase or through a solar loan or financing.
Florida Solar Regulations
The state of Florida has numerous regulations that must be followed as it pertains to solar energy. The most prominent, however, is the Florida Solar Rights Act. This restricts any person or group, inclusive of homeowners associations, from barring solar or other renewable energy device installation on any building. Additionally, an HOA cannot require that a homeowner's solar system be screened from view by trees, fences, remote roof location or any other means.
All in all, based on the high need to use energy in Florida in order to keep houses cool, solar is a great choice. Plus, residents are well-positioned to receive cost savings by embracing this form of clean, renewable energy.
Top 10 Cities for Solar in North Carolina
To determine North Carolina's top cities for solar, we examined data provided by a variety of organizations, including generation reports from the Energy Information Administration, capacity maps from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and city-specific analyses by Environment America.
Based on our findings, these are the top 10 cities for solar in North Carolina:
- Asheville
- Raleigh
- Charlotte
- Durham
- Greensboro
- Chapel Hill
- Wilmington
- Winston-Salem
- Cary
- Concord
EcoWatch
1. Asheville
A progressive bastion within the state, there is little wonder why Asheville ranks No. 1 on our list of top solar cities in North Carolina. Asheville aggressively promotes solar energy, even going so far as to offer a rebate on building permits when solar is installed on either residential or commercial properties. Asheville currently has over 89.5 watts of solar capacity installed per person, which is the 18th-highest per-capita installation in the U.S.
2. Raleigh
As the capital of the state, Raleigh stands central to a few leading universities and is part of the Research Triangle, a major science and technology hub. As such, the area is deeply committed to innovation, so it is no surprise it ranks No. 2 in the state for its adoption of solar. The city has over 23.4 watts of solar PV capacity installed per person.
3. Charlotte
The Queen City has approximately 14 watts of total installed solar PV per person, and it's likely this number is set to grow as the local government pivots toward solar. Charlotte is currently in the process of transitioning 25% of its municipal buildings' electricity needs to solar energy.
4. Durham
Another part of the Research Triangle region, Durham is known for its technology companies and the fact that it is home to Duke University. The area leans progressive and has the reputation of being North Carolina's " hippest city." Likely because of this, its residents tend to think green and have been eagerly adopting solar as a way of combating climate change.
5. Greensboro
Situated in the center of the state, Greensboro is a rapidly growing area that encompasses a beautiful and vast natural environment. Residents bask in the abundant Carolina sunshine, and as such, NREL maps show the area has one of the highest potentials for annual solar generation in the state.
6. Chapel Hill
The town of Chapel Hill, also a member of the famed Research Triangle and home to UNC-Chapel Hill, has a focus on research and development that includes renewable energy. The town recently became a member of the U.S. Department of Energy's SolSmart Program, which means it receives federal technical assistance with enhancing opportunities for local solar generation.
7. Wilmington
Located along the Eastern Seaboard, Wilmington is a beach town that receives constant attention from the sun. The city encourages its residents to embrace conservation, and in a recent survey, 81% of respondents strongly agreed with the city's goal to transition to clean energy, and over half agreed solar was the best way to do so.
8. Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem, located near Greensboro as part of the Piedmont Triad area, is another North Carolina city that's promising for future solar installations. According to NREL maps, the city has an above-average number of buildings that are suitable for solar panels, and it has one of the highest roof-mount generation potentials in the state.
9. Cary
Located just outside Raleigh, it's easy to understand Cary's shared values with its sister city. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in the South and attracts Northerners seeking the area's pleasant weather and abundant sunshine in droves. Expect to see Cary's solar adoption continue to grow in the coming years.
10. Concord
Planted just outside of Charlotte, Concord actively partners with NC GreenPower, an independent nonprofit organization that promotes the mission of expanding knowledge and acceptance of clean energy practices, including the adoption of solar. Concord's work has been paying off, as it assumes the 10th spot on our list of the top cities for solar in North Carolina.
Where Does Solar Make the Most Sense?
North Carolina is located in an area of the country known for its long, sunny summers and relatively short winters. This makes the state ideally situated to reap the benefits of solar. Of course, solar is also more attractive in cities that have adopted local financial incentives (more on that below).
The cost of energy can also make solar a better or worse decision. If costs associated with energy tend to be high, homeowners will get a better return on their solar energy investments. Conversely, if energy costs are low, the benefit associated with transitioning to solar energy is not as prevalent.
Average North Carolina Electricity Costs
In North Carolina's case, most homeowners can expect to spend significant amounts of money on utilities, which explains the state's heady move to solar.
Based on a report distributed by the EIA, the average monthly electricity bill for a North Carolina resident is $123.25, with average monthly consumption checking in at 1,079 kWh. These numbers aren't the highest in the South Atlantic region — which also includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia — but they aren't the lowest, either.
Compared with the national average of about $115 per month, North Carolinians pay a decent amount for energy, making the state's residents well-suited to receive considerable solar benefits.
North Carolina Solar Tax Incentives
Along with benefiting from low to nonexistent utility bills, North Carolina residents can take advantage of a few key financial incentives that make solar a more appealing investment. Here is an overview of what North Carolina homeowners should know about the state's tax incentives:
| Incentive | North Carolina Solar Incentive Details |
| Duke Energy solar power rebates | Duke Energy customers who opt to install a solar panel system can receive a rebate of 60 cents per watt for systems up to 10 kW. The program is first-come, first-served, but customers can join a waitlist to receive future benefits when funds run out for the year. |
| Revolving loan options | North Carolina allows for cities and counties to provide low-interest loans for solar panels as well as other energy upgrades. Interest rates on loans cap out at 8%. |
| State property tax exemption | A solar panel system increases the value of your home, but North Carolina residents can rest assured their property taxes will not go up due to a solar-related increase. |
Additionally, the state of North Carolina has a net metering policy that credits homeowners for the excess power that their system generates. The program is administered by two of the state's major power companies, Dominion Energy Virginia and Duke Energy.
Dominion Energy encourages homeowners who use solar to enroll in a net metering program to connect their system to the power grid. The utility will then install a meter that measures a two-way flow of electricity.
Duke Energy's program lets customers who generate electricity from a solar power system offset energy costs and receive a credit on their bill when excess energy is produced.
Federal Solar Tax Credits
Another incentive to be aware of if you live in North Carolina — or anywhere else in the U.S. — is the federal investment tax credit (ITC). This solar tax credit is recognized as one of the major drivers for encouraging Americans to adopt solar. It offers a credit valued at 26% of the cost of a home solar system.
North Carolina Solar Regulations
There are some key regulations that residents of the state of North Carolina need to be informed about as well. For instance, HB589 requires the creation of a rebate program and financing incentives to encourage customer adoption of clean energy like rooftop solar. From this legislation, a Solar Rebate Program has been created that seeks to attract and encourage homeowners interested in clean energy to install solar on their homes.
Another key point of HB589 is the establishment of a Community Solar Program, which allows North Carolina residents to collectively own a solar facility or subscribe to some of that facility's overall output. This program applies to developers, utilities or even a group of neighbors or customers.
The programs established by this bill are currently in development.
Final Thoughts: Top Cities for Solar in North Carolina
It's easy to see why North Carolina is a top state for solar energy in the U.S., but there's still room for improvement. If your city didn't make our top list of the top cities for solar in North Carolina, there are a few ways to raise your area's solar profile.
First, you can install a solar panel system on your own roof and encourage your neighbors to do the same. You can also contact your elected officials (at the local, state and even federal level) to urge for more stringent renewable energy goals. By doing these things, you can play a big part in North Carolina's clean energy future.
Top 10 Cities for Solar in Arizona
To determine Arizona's top cities for solar energy, EcoWatch analyzed solar generation data from the Energy Information Administration, maps from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the latest Shining Cities report from Environment America.
After synthesizing these data points, we've determined the following places to be the top 10 cities for solar in Arizona:
- Phoenix
- Scottsdale
- Tucson
- Flagstaff
- Yuma
- Tempe
- Glendale
- Camp Verde
- Prescott
- Buckeye
EcoWatch
Phoenix
Phoenix isn't just Arizona's leader in solar installation — it's also one of the top solar cities in the entire country. According to the Shining Cities report, Phoenix is ranked No. 8 in the nation in terms of total watts of solar energy installed per capita. That puts it just behind Las Vegas (Nevada's top solar city) and about equal to Riverside (one of the top cities for solar in California).
Scottsdale
This desert town outside of Phoenix is known for its luxurious resorts. It's a great destination for golfing or for getting pampered at the spa. According to NREL data, there are plenty of rooflines that make it just perfect for solar panel installation.
Tucson
Beautiful Tucson is another go-to for leisure and recreation. Because of its closer proximity to the equator, Tucson has one of the highest annual solar power generation potentials in the state — and this sun-saturated city has made an admirable commitment to solar power.
Flagstaff
Flagstaff is another Arizona city that gets plenty of sun exposure throughout the year, making it ideally positioned for solar installation. Flagstaff City Hall even has solar panels installed on its south-facing facade, which generate a small portion of the building's energy and serve as a good sign of support for residents.
Yuma
Positioned next to the Colorado River on the U.S.-Mexico border, Yuma consistently tops lists of the sunniest cities on Earth. In fact, it even holds a Guinness World Record for "most sunshine." Yuma's community has embraced the benefits of clean, renewable energy, but the city still has a lot of untapped potential, with an above-average number of buildings suitable for solar according to NREL.
Tempe
Located outside of Phoenix, Tempe is a great place to soak up some sun, and many homeowners have taken advantage of that fact, installing robust, residential solar systems. Tempe is also one of the cities in the 2021 Arizona Solar Challenge, which means its residents are working to help the state realize its commitment to be carbon-free by 2050.
Glendale
Another city in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area, Glendale is rapidly growing. And as its population expands, so does its commitment to solar. NREL's maps show the city has more than 20,000 buildings suitable for solar panels and some of the state's highest potentials for both solar power capacity and generation.
Camp Verde
Camp Verde, located in the center of the state between Phoenix and Flagstaff, is another town that's well-known for outdoor recreation and festivities. Naturally, it's also a pretty good place to harness the natural energy of the sun.
Prescott
Just west of Camp Verde, residents of Prescott have put their sun-soaked rooftops to good use and given the city an admirable reputation for solar installation. There is also a new solar facility being developed in the area, which will be able to provide clean, renewable energy to over 20,000 homes.
Buckeye
This Phoenix suburb is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. As it blossoms, its commitment to solar energy grows. In fact, the city was recently chosen as the site of the first U.S.-owned lithium-ion battery plant thanks to its proximity to a vibrant solar industry.
Where Solar Panels Work Best
As you consider your own possible investment in solar power, it's important to keep in mind that solar energy is more viable in some places than in others. With that said, what makes a city or town especially primed to embrace solar energy?
There are a couple of factors to consider. The obvious one is sun exposure. Places that have consistent sunlight throughout the seasons are always going to be better bets for solar installation. Luckily, most Arizona cities don't struggle with sunshine.
The other factor is local utility costs. In places where electricity costs are high, the value of solar energy is more pronounced. But if local electrical costs are low, then the benefits of going solar are comparatively modest.
Average Arizona Energy Costs
According to the Energy Industries Association, the average monthly electricity cost in Arizona is $126.09. This is considerably higher than the average in neighboring states; in Utah, for example, the average monthly cost for electricity is just $75. The high cost of electric energy makes Arizona a sweet spot to embrace the benefits of solar power. It is also worth noting that Arizona's average monthly electrical consumption is higher than the U.S. average, which is about $115 per month.
Arizona Solar Tax Incentives
Solar energy can help homeowners save money in more ways than one. Not only can it cut electric bills, but in many places, there are significant tax incentives, as well. These can make the cost of solar panels significantly less impactful on your wallet.
Arizona has some of the most helpful solar tax incentives in the entire country. There are a couple that are especially worth knowing about:
- Residential Arizona solar tax credit: This credit reimburses you 25% of the cost of your panels, up to $1,000. You can claim this credit on your personal income tax returns.
- Equipment tax exemption: You do not have to pay any sales tax when you buy solar panels or other installation-related equipment in Arizona.
- Property tax exemption: Solar panels will increase your property value, but this exemption makes sure that this doesn't factor into the property taxes you pay. In Arizona, you won't be taxed higher because of your solar installation.
Federal Solar Tax Credits
These tax incentives are nice, but keep in mind that there is also a federal solar tax credit, available to all Americans, that currently reduces the cost of your solar system by 26%. This can be compounded with the savings mentioned above to make it that much more affordable to go solar.
Keep in mind, however, that in 2023, this credit will be reduced to 22%, and there is currently no credit available in 2024 or beyond.
Arizona Solar Regulations
One of the downsides of Arizona's solar energy scene is that the state itself has a dicey history of passing anti-renewables laws, some of them as recent as 2018. Such laws essentially allow utility companies to ignore clean energy mandates, or to receive only the most minimal fines when they do so. And yet, other laws mandate that utility companies make a considerable investment in solar power.
From a regulative standpoint, Arizona is thorny, at best… but that should not stop homeowners and business owners from embracing the benefits of solar power.
Top 10 States for Solar Energy Tax Incentives
As you consider whether to invest in solar energy, make sure you're aware of any tax incentives specific to your state. If you decide to work with a local top solar company, it will likely provide you with assistance in claiming these financial benefits.
According to our research and analysis, the 10 states with the best solar energy tax incentives include:
- New York
- Rhode Island
- Iowa
- Connecticut
- Maryland
- New Mexico
- Colorado
- Massachusetts
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
EcoWatch
New York Solar Incentives
Residents of New York have a number of ways to offset their solar panel installation costs, above and beyond what's offered by the federal tax incentive:
- NY-Sun Megawatt Block incentive: Under this program, solar consumers can claim a dollars-per-watt ($/W) cash rebate for their systems. Both residential and commercial systems can qualify for this program.
- Solar Energy System Equipment Credit: This solar incentive allows residents to deduct up to $5,000 or 25% of total solar energy expenses from their taxes (whichever is lower). The credit is available to homeowners who purchase a new system or who choose to lease a system.
- Sales tax exemption: Buyers do not pay the state's 4% sales tax on solar equipment.
- Net metering: New York residents may also take advantage of the current statewide net metering program, which allows any excess solar power generated by a system to be fed back into the solar grid in exchange for credits on utility bills.
Rhode Island Solar Incentives
For residents of Rhode Island, there are several ways to save money on solar installation:
- CommerceRI's Renewable Energy Fund grant program: Under this program, homeowners can get a rebate of $0.85 per watt, capped at $7,000, when they have a new system installed. For the average system, this amounts to savings of somewhere between $4,000 and $5,000.
- Property tax exemption: This exemption makes sure that, even if solar panels raise the value of your property, they will not raise your property taxes.
- Sales tax exemption: When Rhode Island residents purchase a new solar system, they are exempt from paying the state's 7% sales tax on the equipment.
- Net metering: Rhode Island residents may feed their excess solar power back into the solar grid in exchange for utility credits. The state has a Renewable Energy Growth program that ensures those enrolled receive 29.65 cents per kilowatt-hour fed back to the grid for 15 years.
Iowa Solar Incentives
Iowa offers a number of solar tax incentives, in addition to the federal tax credit:
- Iowa Solar Energy System Tax Credit: Iowa residents can recoup 15% of the cost of a solar system, capped at $5,000. This credit is claimed when filing state income taxes.
- Property tax exemption: This exemption assures Iowa homeowners that property taxes will not rise if solar panels raise the value of their property.
- Sales tax exemption: Iowans do not have to pay the 6% state sales tax when they purchase equipment for their new solar system.
- Net metering: Iowa residents may also take advantage of net metering credits.
Connecticut Solar Incentives
Several financial incentives are available in Connecticut, including each of the following:
- Residential Solar Investment Rebate Program: This rebate is managed by the Connecticut Green Bank and pays $0.463 per watt of solar installed. Most homeowners are eligible for more than $2,000 savings through this rebate program.
- Energy Conservation Loan Program: Connecticut residents who wish to purchase a solar system can get low-interest loans from the state government. Specifically, residents can borrow up to $25,000 for 10 years with interest rates as low as 0% and no higher than 6%.
- Sales tax exemption: Connecticut residents do not have to pay the 6.35% state sales tax on new solar equipment.
- Property tax exemption: This exemption assures Connecticut homeowners that property taxes will not be raised after solar panel installation.
- Net metering: Connecticut residents also have the option of net metering, meaning any excess solar power generated by their system can be fed back into the solar grid in exchange for utility credits.
Maryland Solar Incentives
In addition to the federal tax incentives, Maryland residents can take advantage of these financial incentives:
- Residential Clean Energy Rebate Program: Maryland residents get a rebate of $1,000 when they install a new solar panel system or solar shingles at their primary residence.
- Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs): Maryland homeowners may receive one certificate for each megawatt-hour of clean electricity they produce via their residential solar system. These credits can then be sold on the SREC market.
- Property tax exemption: Installing solar systems can increase the value of a home, but Maryland residents do not have to pay any additional property taxes.
- Sales tax exemption: Maryland residents do not have to pay the state's 6% sales tax on new solar equipment.
- Net metering: Maryland homeowners have access to net metering, meaning any excess solar power generated by their system can be fed back into the solar grid in exchange for utility credits.
New Mexico Solar Incentives
In New Mexico, residents can take advantage of the federal tax incentive as well as the following:
- Solar Market Development Tax Credit: New Mexico taxpayers get a 10% tax credit (up to $6,000) toward total solar energy expenses.
- Sustainable Building Tax Credit: New Mexico will credit up to $6.50 per square foot on your income taxes when you install solar panels. Note that, to qualify, the home must be certified by the U.S. Green Building Council.
- Property tax exemption: New Mexico homeowners don't pay property taxes on their increased home value after installing solar panels.
- Net metering: Homeowners can take advantage of the state's net metering program to sell excess energy back to the grid.
Colorado Solar Incentives
In Colorado, some of the most prominent solar tax incentives include:
- Local rebates: Although Colorado does not have a statewide solar rebate program, the majority of major utility companies and local organizations offer incentives.
- Community Solar Gardens: Colorado is a leader in community solar adoption, which means many non-homeowner residents can subscribe to get their energy from an off-site solar array.
- Sales tax exemption: The state does not tax the physical equipment of solar panels or solar systems.
- Property tax exemption: Colorado residents do not have to pay any additional property taxes for increased home value due to solar installation.
- Net metering: Colorado homeowners can take advantage of net metering through their utility companies.
Massachusetts Solar Incentives
There are several incentives available to homeowners in Massachusetts:
- Residential Energy Credit: Massachusetts residents can get a credit worth up to 15% of the total cost of their solar system. The maximum is a $1,000 credit.
- Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) Program: The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources created this incentive program, which provides credits to customers of investor-owned utility companies.
- Property tax exemption: Massachusetts residents do pay additional property taxes after installing solar panels.
- Sales tax exemption: Massachusetts does not tax the physical equipment of solar panels or solar systems.
- Net metering: Customers of regulated electric companies are eligible for net metering in Massachusetts.
New Hampshire Solar Incentives
Tax incentives available in New Hampshire include:
- Renewable Energy Generation Incentive Program: Those with a solar system size of 10 kilowatts (kW) or less can claim credits worth either $0.20 per watt (up to $1,000) or half the cost of their residential solar system.
- Property tax exemption: New Hampshire residents in select counties are exempt from paying increased property taxes from the value add of their residential solar system.
- Net metering: New Hampshire has a statewide net metering program through which residents can get money back from utilities.
New Jersey Solar Incentives
The following incentives are available to residents of New Jersey:
- Transition Renewable Energy Certificates (TRECs): Residential solar systems can help homeowners earn these certificates, which can be sold back to utility companies.
- Property tax exemption: Those who live in New Jersey are exempt from any property tax increases related to their residential solar equipment.
- Sales tax exemption: Residents do not have to pay the state's 6.625% sales tax on solar panels and related installation equipment.
- Net metering: New Jersey homeowners can take advantage of net metering, meaning any excess solar power generated by their system can be fed back into the solar grid in exchange for credits.
Federal Tax Incentives for Solar Energy
No matter which state you live in, all American homeowners can claim a federal tax incentive for installing solar panels. This credit can be claimed on your federal income tax return and is worth 26% of the total cost of your solar purchase. The incentive is meant to make solar installations more affordable and more accessible to a wider range of homeowners.
The Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) was first developed through the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Initially, it was set to last for just two years, but it has been extended for residential solar installations through at least 2023. (Note that the specific terms of the credit have changed over the years and may continue to shift.)
To be eligible for the federal credit, homeowners must meet the following criteria:
- You have installed a residential solar system at any point from 2006 through the end of 2022.
- You have placed the solar system in a residential location. It does not have to be your primary residence.
- You own the solar system (as opposed to leasing it), meaning you paid for it in cash or are financing it.
Is Home Solar Right for You?
We've noted some of the top states for solar tax incentives, but it's worth noting that there are plenty of other states that offer net metering, rebates and other financial incentives. Additionally, we recommend checking for financial incentives from your city/municipality or your local utility company.
While solar installation can cost a lot of money on the front end, these incentives can make it worthwhile — especially if you live somewhere with ample sun exposure, where you can really take advantage of your system's energy-producing abilities.