5 Best Solar Companies in North Carolina (2025 Reviews)

Why We Chose Palmetto Solar

In my opinion, Palmetto Solar doesn’t have as appealing of a financing option as Blue Raven, but I do think it’s one of the best companies to go with if you know you want a solar lease. Not only does Palmetto offer outstanding protection and warranty coverages for its leased systems, but it also offers the unique opportunity to buy out of a solar lease after 5 years. That means you get the upfront benefits of a lease, including not having to put any money down, in addition to the long-term perks of financing or paying in cash, including higher long-term savings.

Palmetto Solar offer includes a roof leak warranty, which is helpful in North Carolina, given the above-average rainfall, and it has an outstanding company reputation and a history of positive customer reviews, which suggests that you’ll be pleased with the experience and the performance of your system.

I think Palmetto is a great option for customers who know they want to lease their systems, but there are some drawbacks to consider, too. Namely, Palmetto doesn’t offer many options to customize your system, and it doesn’t install batteries. Batteries are super helpful for maximizing savings in areas like North Carolina, where the net metering policy is sub-par, so the lack of batteries is a pretty significant drawback, in my opinion.

What I Like About Palmetto Solar

My favorite thing about Palmetto is the lease buyout option, which gives you the best of both worlds when it comes to leases and solar loans: no upfront payment but also panel ownership and significant solar savings in the long run. I’d really love to see more companies offering lease buyout options, as I think they’re the next most appealing option after cash and something like Blue Raven’s BluePower Plus+ loan.

I also like that Palmetto has maintained such positive customer ratings despite its size and the fact that it outsources the actual installation labor to third-party companies. It has a 3.25-star rating with the BBB and a 4-star rating on Google Reviews. These are both slightly above the industry average, which is a good sign that you’ll be pleased with everything from the communication to the overall customer service and professionalism you receive from Palmetto.

What I Don’t Like About Palmetto Solar

I think the biggest drawback to going solar with Palmetto is that the company doesn’t install solar batteries. This isn’t a huge deal in areas that have one-to-one net metering policies that basically make solar batteries a luxury rather than a necessity, but North Carolina mandates just the avoided cost rate for net metering, which means batteries are more of a necessity if you want to maximize your solar savings.

Another drawback of Palmetto is that it doesn’t offer many options to customize your system. It installs EV chargers, but it doesn’t offer anything in the way of energy efficiency upgrades, and it doesn’t tackle any roof repairs or replacements. In most cases, if you want a customized system with efficiency upgrades to maximize the value of your array, you’re going to have to choose a different installer.

Palmetto Solar Installation Process and Timeline

Palmetto doesn’t have an estimated timeline for a solar installation on its website, but based on the customer reviews and the industry standard, I’d expect you to have to wait around 6 to 8 weeks from your initial inspection to the day your panels are actually generating power for your home. This is about the standard in the industry.

The process of going solar with Palmetto is going to be more or less the same as what you’d get with a different company. You’ll first have an in-person inspection and property assessment so that your representative can qualify your home for solar and take measurements for the design team. The company will then design a system that meets your energy demands and fits on your roof. Once you approve the design, Palmetto will pull permits for your project and then install the equipment once permits are approved. The installation process can be delayed with Palmetto, as the company does outsource to third parties, and communication issues can cause delays. Finally, Palmetto will schedule final inspections before activating your system.

Palmetto Solar Standard Services & Financing 

17/25

Palmetto scores below average when it comes to its standard services and financing options. First, it loses points because it outsources all of the installation labor to third-party companies. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it does increase the risk of spotty customer service and delays caused by communication issues.

Palmetto also loses some points because it doesn’t install batteries. I’d really love to see the company offer batteries in North Carolina, as they help maximize solar savings, given the below-average net metering rate. Batteries also provide emergency power during power outages, which are common in North Carolina due to the extreme weather the state sees during hurricane season.

All of Palmetto’s systems include a self-monitoring app that lets you track your system’s performance, as well as your energy consumption. You can use this information to help reduce your electricity consumption, as well as to identify issues with your system so that you can get them rectified quickly. This could help maximize savings if you do run into a problem that requires system repairs.

Cost and Financing Options

Palmetto Solar accepts cash purchases, solar loans and solar leases, the last of which is through the company’s LightReach plan. The option you choose will have a major impact on your upfront system costs and long-term savings, so it’s worth reviewing the different options to see which is best for you.

A cash purchase is the least accessible because you’ll need to pay your entire system costs upfront, which most homeowners can’t afford to do. However, I do recommend this option if you can swing it, as you’ll avoid paying interest, you’ll get access to the federal investment tax credit (ITC) — an average potential value of over $10,100 in North Carolina — and you’ll see the highest savings over time — an average of over $27,750 in your area.

A solar loan is the next best option, in my opinion. It still provides outstanding savings — an average of around $22,750 in North Carolina — although the interest rate you have will mean you’ll save less than with a cash purchase. Solar loans still let you take the ITC, and they lead to panel ownership, so they shouldn’t complicate the sale of your home.

A lease is like a rental agreement; you pay a monthly fee to rent the panels, but you get to use the energy they generate for free to save on your monthly utility bill. Leases are appealing because they don’t require any money down, in most cases, which also makes them one of the most accessible options. However, they don’t allow access to the ITC, so you miss out on an average potential value of around $10,100, and they save far less in the long run — an average of around $5,000, which is far less than you’d save with a cash purchase or solar loan. Additionally, leases can complicate the sale of your home if the buyer doesn’t want to assume the contract.

I will say that the lease from Palmetto is more appealing than most because of the buy-out option. You can start with a lease and get the upfront benefit of not having to put any money down, but then you can buy out of your agreement to get the long-term savings you’d typically only see from a solar loan or cash purchase. This makes a lease from Palmetto more appealing than leases from most installers.

Note that Palmetto doesn’t accept PPAs, but it doesn’t lose any points in our ratings for this, as leases offer similar pros and cons.

Palmetto Solar Extra Services Offered 

2/5

Unfortunately, Palmetto doesn’t score particularly well when it comes to the extra services the company offers. First off, it doesn’t handle roof repairs or replacements, so if you need any kind of roof work done before you go solar, you’ll have to choose a different company. This isn’t a huge deal and certainly doesn’t mean that you’ll have a poor experience, but if you know you need roof repairs or a full replacement done before it makes sense to go solar, then choosing Palmetto also means you’ll have to vet and coordinate with a separate roofing company, which is less convenient than having a single company that offers both services.

Palmetto also doesn’t offer any energy efficiency upgrades. Some installers can couple your panels with smart thermostats, window, door and insulation replacements, HVAC upgrades and other products and services that can help you get the most out of your solar panels. These perks would be especially beneficial in North Carolina, where most homeowners use more electricity per month than the U.S. average, so it’s kind of a shame that Palmetto doesn’t offer any of these add-on services.

Palmetto does install EV chargers, which is a plus since North Carolina ranks fairly highly when it comes to EV adoption. Being able to add an EV charger to your initial solar energy system installation means you can apply the ITC to the EV charger, as well, effectively allowing you to save up to 30% on the cost. I expect, especially with the increasing demand for EVs, that at-home charging will be a more and more popular option that homeowners want going forward.

Finally, Palmetto offers professional monitoring for solar panel systems regardless of how you finance your equipment. Professional monitoring is a nice option to have because it takes the responsibility of tracking your system’s performance off of you and puts it in the installer’s hands. That means a more worry-free solar array and long-term production, all monitored by a professional to help maximize your energy savings.

Palmetto Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Converting to solar is one of the best things you can do as an individual to reduce your carbon footprint and your negative impact on the environment. You’re more or less trading carbon dioxide emissions and pollution for a renewable and 100% clean energy source that has minimal impact on the environment. However, the equipment itself does have an impact, so we always assess a company’s sustainability at least in part on which panel brands it works with. I also look for sustainability practices and charitable donations on the part of the installer.

Palmetto works with QCells and REC panels, both of which tie with a few other brands for first place in our rankings when it comes to sustainability. Both brands use recycled materials during manufacturing to reduce the strain on the environment, both companies have end-of-life recycling programs for old panels to keep them out of landfills and neither company has a documented history of unethical business practices, like the use of slave labor or child labor, unfair pair, unsafe working conditions or racism in the workplace. They both just lose a few points in our rankings because they aren’t manufactured predominantly in the U.S.

Palmetto also makes charitable donations to Solar Sister and local conservation projects, which further helps create equality in the industry and has a positive impact on the environment.                                                                                                           

Palmetto Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability

17.9/25

Even if investing in solar will save you thousands of dollars over the life of your equipment, it’s still expensive, so you’ll want to make sure you’re getting high-quality equipment that’s going to serve you well for years to come and ensure those appealing savings. I assess panel brands based on 18 factors, but 3 of those, in particular, are important considerations in North Carolina, in my opinion. Those include the panel efficiency, the degradation rate and the max wind load rating.

The panel efficiency tells you how much of the sunlight hitting your home the panel will be able to convert into usable electricity. You’ll see higher energy production rates from panels that have a higher efficiency rating, which ultimately means higher efficiency ratings will lead to greater savings in the long run. That’s especially beneficial in an area like North Carolina, where the rate of electricity consumption is well above the industry average, and there’s more room for solar savings.

The degradation rate of a panel tells you how quickly your equipment will lose its starting efficiency. Slower degradation rates mean your panels will continue with a higher level of production — meaning more savings for you — for a longer period. The slower the degradation rate, the better suited your panels are to offset your above-average energy bills two decades from now. Most tier-one panels guarantee that between 85% and 92% of the initial panel efficiency will remain after 25 years. QCells panels from Palmetto guarantee 90.58%, while REC panels are a bit better for long-term performance in North Carolina and guarantee the full 92%.

Finally, the wind load rating tells you how much force your panels can withstand from wind on the rear side before getting damaged. In areas like North Carolina, where hurricanes and tropical storms are relatively common and can produce strong winds that threaten rooftop solar panels, this specification is an important thing to consider. The average wind load rating among tier-one panels is around 3,520 Pascals (Pa). QCells falls just above this at 3,600 Pa, and REC is an even safer option with a rating of 4,000 Pa.

Warranties and Guarantees

I also consider the warranty coverage you get with your solar array, as the warranties and guarantees will ensure you get ongoing performance and savings from your system. I look at 4 types of solar warranties to get a complete picture of how well protected your system will be.

First, I look at the equipment warranty. This is passed to you through your installer, but it typically comes from your manufacturer and protects against manufacturer defects. Most tier-one manufacturers guarantee that your panels will be free from defects for 25 years, and both of the brands available from Palmetto meet that standard.

Second, I look at the performance warranty, which also typically comes from the manufacturer and is passed to you through your installer. This ensures a certain level of performance from your panels by guaranteeing that your panels won’t lose more than a specified percentage of their efficiency over the warranty period. Most tier-one panels guarantee that between 85% and 92% of the panel efficiency will remain after 25 years. QCells panels from Palmetto guarantee 90.58%, and REC panels are slightly better at the full 92%.

Next, I look for workmanship warranties, also called labor warranties. These actually come directly from your installer, and they ensure you don’t run into system damages as a result of poor installation. I think these are really important in areas like North Carolina that see extreme weather because strong winds and above-average rainfall put added stress on rooftop solar systems. Solid warranty coverage helps provide peace of mind that your system is installed properly. The average workmanship warranty lasts for 12 years. Unfortunately, Palmetto falls a bit short here with a 10-year workmanship warranty.

Finally, I look to see if the installer offers a roof leak warranty, which guarantees that the roof penetrations made to install your panels won’t leak for the entirety of the warranty. There’s a higher risk of roof leaks in areas that see above-average rainfall, so this protection is especially helpful in North Carolina. Most installers don’t offer any roof leak guarantee, but Palmetto stands apart from the competition by including a 10-year roof leak warranty.

Palmetto Solar Company Reputation 

21.5/25

Palmetto scores quite well in our ratings when it comes to its reputation in the local industry, too. This helps it stand out among the other 100+ installers in the state, and it suggests that you’ll have a positive experience if you choose this provider to convert to solar.

First, Palmetto has been around since 2010, so it has nearly 15 years of experience behind it. Past success in the industry doesn’t always mean a company will continue to be successful, but it does suggest that it has some staying power. Companies that pop up and go out of business a few years later when they realize they can’t keep up with the intense competition can void your warranty coverage in the process. Going with an established company like Palmetto reduces the risk of that happening.

Palmetto is also an SEIA member, so it’s financially invested in the local solar industry. This helps further establish its staying power and provides a bit more peace of mind that your company and warranty coverage are here to stay.

Palmetto outsources the installation labor, but it only uses NABCEP-certified installers to do the work. Certification requires specialized training in PV installations, so you get some additional peace of mind that you’re getting a professional installation from a true expert.

I also look at customer ratings across a few websites to gauge a company’s reputation. Palmetto has a 3.25-star rating on the BBB’s website, which is slightly above average, and it has a 3.7-star rating on TrustPilot, which is also above average. Note that Palmetto only has a single 5-star review on TrustPilot, though, and the total rating is scaled downward to account for the lack of customer feedback.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

While I think aggregate customer ratings are a useful tool for assessing the likelihood that a company will serve you well and provide quality customer care, I also think it’s important to read through reviews to see what customers complain about and what they’re pleased with.

I read through a few dozen Palmetto Solar reviews and found that a lot of the positive comments mention things like the system meeting expectations, an honest and low-pressure sales process, informative and professional technicians and good communication throughout the process. Negative reviews mention delays in the installation process, poor communication, especially related to issues, and somewhat slow responses to warranty claims and production problems after the installation. It seems like your experience will depend, in part, on your local Palmetto branch and the third-party installer assigned to your solar project.

I’ll include 1 positive and 1 negative Palmetto Solar review below to give you an idea of the best and worst you can get from this company.

“The installation process unfolded as expected. No issues. Very happy with the process and results. Production of the system is on par with the predictions. The 30% tax rebate made the purchase a profitable and environmentally friendly plan.” — Jeff L. via BBB

“I have read some of the reviews and I am in the same boat where my inverter is out. No one bothered to call us. It has been down the whole month of September and I have to pay a high light bill and still have to make the monthly payment for the panels. No one gets back to you. It’s a big run around and you can’t reach the warranty company to check the status of the inverter. This is a big scam of a company. It has worked for less than a year and [there are] already big red flags.” — Jeanne N. via BBB

Palmetto Solar Customer Service 

8/10

The last part of our company review process is a subjective assessment of the company’s customer service. I start by reading through dozens of reviews on sites like the BBB to see specifically what this company does well and where it could stand to improve. There are a few red flags I see, including spotty customer service and occasionally slow responses to warranty claims and issues after installation. However, it seems there are more people who are pleased with the process and customer service, so I deducted 2 points for the variability in service.

I also called Palmetto as a secret shopper to see how they treat customers early on in the solar conversion process. The representative I spoke with was very friendly and helpful. They were able to answer questions without rushing me off the phone, and they offered to schedule an in-person consultation but didn’t seem overly salesy. Overall, I was pleased with the secret shopper experience.

Why We Chose Solar SME

Solar SME provides one of the most impressive warranty packages I’ve seen in North Carolina, including equipment warranties in line with the industry standard of 25 years, performance warranties lasting between 25 and 30 years and an incredible 25-year labor warranty. The labor warranty is particularly impressive, as it’s more than double the industry standard and gives you the ultimate confidence that your system will be issue-free for decades to come.

Solar SME also has stellar customer ratings that suggest outstanding customer service and professional, honest salespeople and installation technicians. The company has a great reputation and uses NABCEP-certified installers that are part of an in-house installation team, so I’d feel more than comfortable having this provider install panels on my roof, even in an area like North Carolina, where extreme weather puts added stress on rooftop panels.

I think Solar SME is a solid choice in most respects, but there are some drawbacks to consider. First, the company doesn’t offer many add-on services, so it’s not ideal for homeowners who want to customize their system to get the most value possible. It also has excellent workmanship warranty coverage, but it doesn’t offer a roof leak warranty, which is kind of a shame, as that would really round out the protection you get for your system.

What I Like About Solar SME

I think the best thing about Solar SME is the peace of mind you get that your system will be installed by true professionals who stand behind their work. Not only do you get a labor warranty that lasts more than twice as long as the industry average, but the company also has outstanding customer reviews, which suggests that the provider will be quick to respond to any issues that do pop up.

I’m also happy to see Solar SME installing batteries and EV chargers. While it lacks some of the add-on services that I look for in an installer, these two, in particular, are great to have in North Carolina. Batteries help maximize your solar savings in lieu of a statewide one-to-one net metering program, and EV chargers are nice to have for at-home EV charging, especially since North Carolina ranks quite highly in the country when it comes to EV adoption.

What I Don’t Like About Solar SME

Solar SME doesn’t handle roof work or offer professional system monitoring. If you need roof repairs or replacements done before going solar, you’ll have to coordinate with a third-party company, which is going to cost you more time and effort than going with a solar installer that also tackles roof work. System monitoring would also be nice for some additional assurance that your system will remain up and running as intended to maximize your solar savings.

I also really with Solar SME offered a roof leak warranty. Its use of NABCEP-certified installers and its inclusion of a 25-year workmanship warranty all but guarantee that you won’t have any issues with your system that stem from the installation labor. Adding a roof leak warranty to that would make going solar with this provider a no-brainer, so it’s a shame that it doesn’t offer one.

Solar SME Installation Process and Timeline

Solar SME notes on its site that the average solar installation takes between 8 and 12 weeks from start to finish, which is a bit longer than the industry average of 6 to 8 weeks. I didn’t see any customer reviews mentioning unexpected delays, though, so I’d assume the provider maintains good communication throughout the process.

The company follows a process similar to what you’d see from most other installers. You’ll start with an in-person home inspection so that a tech can inspect your roof, gauge your energy needs and assess sun exposure and shading on your property. The company will then design a system that suits your home and can keep up with your level of consumption. Once you sign off on the design, Solar SME will pull all necessary permits for your system, and then its in-house installation team will install everything after the permits are approved. A rep will then schedule any final inspections needed before activating your system.

Solar SME Standard Services & Financing 

25/25

I’m happy to report that Solar SME gets a perfect score in our ratings when it comes to its standard services and financing options. It gets full marks for using an in-house installation team. Unlike Palmetto, which outsources installation labor, every tech that comes to your home will be an employee of Solar SME. This helps ensure smooth communication and coordination throughout your installation process, and it also helps avoid spotty customer service that can result from a subcontracted company performing the actual work.

Solar SME installs solar batteries, including products from 9 different manufacturers. Batteries are more of a luxury in some areas, but they can actually provide a financial return on investment in North Carolina, so I think they’re a crucial option to have access to. The state has net metering available, but the credit rate is well below the retail rate for energy, which means your overproduction offsets less consumption when you need to call on power from the grid. Installing a battery gives you access to “on-site net metering” that’s effectively one-to-one, so batteries are often good investments in your area. They also provide backup power during power outages, which are somewhat common in North Carolina during hurricane season.

All systems from Solar SME also come with access to a free self-monitoring mobile app, which lets you keep track of your system’s performance on your phone. This is a great thing to have because you can identify dips in production that could relate to panel malfunction, which means you can get repairs underway quickly to minimize your loss of savings. Most installers offer this because it comes from the panel or inverter manufacturer, but I’m still pleased to see that you get access from Solar SME.

Cost and Financing Options

Solar SME also gets full marks in our ratings for the financing options it offers, which include cash purchases, solar loans, leases and PPAs. I love to see the wealth of options available, but you should know how each one works before choosing.

With a cash purchase, you’ll pay for your system upfront in cash. This is the least accessible option because you need to have an average of around $33,700 saved up before you go solar. However, paying in cash brings the most benefits, including access to the ITC — an average value of around $10,100 in North Carolina — and the highest net savings possible — an average of around $27,750 in your area. Cash purchases lead to immediate panel ownership, too, so paying in cash won’t complicate the sale of your home like a lease or PPA might.

Solar loans are much more realistic for most homeowners because you only need to have a few thousand dollars saved up for a down payment. You then finance the rest of the system cost and pay monthly. The interest will eat into your savings, bringing them down by around $5,000, but you should still see net savings of around $22,750, which is outstanding. You can still take the ITC if you use a loan, and selling your home shouldn’t be overly complicated if you have a solar loan.

A solar lease is like a rental agreement: you pay a monthly rental fee for the panels and get to use the electricity they generate for free to save money on your utility bills. Leases are one of the most accessible options because they don’t require any down payment in most cases. However, you won’t be able to take the ITC, so you miss out on over $10,000 in incentives, on average, and your lifetime savings will sit far lower — around $5,000 total — than if you used cash or a solar loan to finance your panels. Leases can also make selling your home more complicated if the buyer doesn’t want to assume the lease after closing.

A PPA is similar to a lease in accessibility since there’s no down payment required. The actual payment structure is a little different, as you buy the power the panels generate to reduce your electric bill instead of renting the panels. While PPAs are affordable, they don’t let you take the ITC, they can complicate the sale of your home and they provide limited savings of between $4,000 and $5,000 over the life of your contract, in most cases.

Solar SME Extra Services Offered 

2/5

Unfortunately, Solar SME loses some points in our ratings due to the lack of add-on options available. First, it loses a few points because it doesn’t handle roof repair or replacement. Before you go solar, it’s super important to make sure your roof is in good condition. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay for removal and replacement just a few years later that will eat into your savings. I like when solar installers handle roof work in-house, too, as it makes the transition to clean energy a bit easier for you since you don’t need to vet and coordinate with a third-party roofer.

Solar SME does offer some energy efficiency upgrades, which is nice to see and can help you get a bit more out of your solar array. Namely, it installs solar carports and generators. Solar carports can increase your solar production and solar savings even if you run out of space on your roof or don’t have a southern-facing roof already, and generators can stand in for solar batteries, although they do rely on burning fossil fuels to produce power, so they’re not nearly as environmentally-friendly.

The company also installs EV chargers, which I’m happy to see. North Carolina has had relatively fast and steady EV adoption rates, so I expect that at-home charging will appeal to a lot of customers both now and in the future. They also help add utility to your system and help you get more value from your panels, which is a win-win in my book.

Solar SME doesn’t offer professional system monitoring services, so it loses a few points for that, too. You do get access to a self-monitoring app to keep track of production, but that puts the responsibility of identifying system issues on your shoulders. It would be much more convenient to leave the monitoring to a professional, so it’s unfortunate that Solar SME doesn’t provide this service.

Solar SME Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Installing solar panels on your home is one of the best things you can do for the environment as an individual. You immediately and substantially reduce your carbon footprint and your contribution to emissions and pollution, so it’s an outstanding way to go green. However, you can maximize the positive impact you have on the environment by choosing an installer and panel manufacturer that take sustainability seriously, too. That’s why I always assess installers and the brands they work with based on sustainability and environmental friendliness.

Solar SME’s positive impact on the environment comes primarily from the number of installations it has handled. The company doesn’t mention specific numbers on its site, but it has been around for a decade, so I expect the positive impact to be significant.

I also look at the brands each installer works with, specifically looking for manufacturers who make it a point to use recycled materials during manufacturing, have end-of-life recycling programs for old panels and don’t have a history of unethical business practices, like poor working conditions, unfair pay, forced labor or other related issues. Solar SME installs panels from Panasonic, Silfab, Trina, REC and QCells, all of which tie with a few other brands for first place in terms of sustainability. They use recycled materials, help keep old panels out of landfills and don’t have a documented history of unethical and unsustainable business practices.

Solar SME Equipment Quality & Reliability

17.9/25

Equipment and manufacturer sustainability is an important part of our review process, but I also look at the quality and reliability of the equipment to gauge how well they’ll serve you over time and how long your system will continue maximizing your positive impact on the environment. I compare panel brands based on 18 specifications, but I think 3, in particular, are important to consider in North Carolina. Those include the panel efficiency, the degradation rate and the max wind load rating.

The panel efficiency tells you how efficient your panels are, which is to say how much of the sunlight that hits them they will be able to convert into usable electricity for your home. Panels with higher efficiency ratings will offset more of your electric bills, so they’re especially helpful in areas like North Carolina, where homeowners have above-average rates of electricity consumption. The best solar panels have efficiency ratings of 22% or higher. The Panasonic and Silfab panels from Solar SME fall just below that at 21.4%, but the rest are above that mark and are better suited for use in North Carolina. The Trina panels are the best of the bunch with an efficiency rating topping out at 23%.

The panel degradation rate tells you how quickly your panels lose efficiency. Panels with a slower degradation rate will continue offsetting your electric bills for longer, so a slower rate is better for ensuring your above-average energy consumption in North Carolina will continue to be offset for decades to come. Most tier-one panels guarantee that between 85% and 92% of the initial efficiency will remain after 25 years of production. All of the brands from Solar SME fall within that range, with Panasonic and REC offering the most guaranteed efficiency — 92% after 25 years.

The max wind load rating of a panel tells you how much force the panel can withstand from the back from wind before getting damaged. This is a crucial spec to consider in North Carolina, where hurricanes and tropical storms are relatively common and can bring intense winds that threaten less durable panels. The average wind load rating among tier-one panels is 3,520 Pascals (Pa). All of the brands from Solar SME surpass that, but Silfab is the most durable of the options with an industry-leading wind load rating of 5,400 Pa.

Warranties and Guarantees

Panel durability is important, but you really need to look at both panel specifications and your warranty coverage together to see what kind of protection you’ll have for your investment into clean energy. I look at 4 types of solar warranties when I assess a solar installer.

First, I look for equipment warranties, which cover damages from manufacturer defects. These come from the manufacturer, but your installer plays a role in the coverage you get because they choose which brands to work with. The industry standard for an equipment warranty is 25 years, and all of the brands that Solar SME offers match that.

Second, I look at the performance warranty. This also comes from your manufacturer, but again, your installer somewhat dictates the coverage you get because it chooses the brands it works with. This warranty is especially important in areas with above-average energy consumption, like North Carolina, as it guarantees long-term performance and savings from your system. The typical performance warranty guarantees that your panels will retain between 85% and 92% of the starting efficiency over 25 years. All of the brands Solar SME works with fall within that range and, as mentioned before, REC and Panasonic guarantee the full 92%.

Third, I look for labor warranties. This is one piece of coverage that comes from the installer and not the manufacturer, as it covers the installation labor and ensures your system and property won’t sustain damage due to improper installation. The standard coverage for labor is 12 years, and Solar SME blows most of the competition out of the water by offering a 25-year labor warranty. This is one of the best I’ve seen in the industry, let alone in North Carolina.

Finally, I look for roof leak warranties. These protect your home from roof leaks after solar panel installation, so they’re especially useful in areas like North Carolina that see above-average rainfall and intense rain during hurricanes and tropical storms. Unfortunately, Solar SME doesn’t offer a roof leak warranty, so this is really the only area in terms of warranty coverage that the company disappoints. However, most installers don’t include a roof leak warranty.

Solar SME Company Reputation

21.5/25

Solar SME scores really well in our ratings when it comes to its reputation in the solar industry. It was founded in 2014 and has a decade of experience behind it, and this kind of staying power in such a competitive industry speaks volumes about the company’s ability to adapt to changes in the market and maintain a level of success that suggests future longevity. If a company goes out of business following your installation, it can void your warranty coverage, so I recommend choosing a company with a long history of success like Solar SME for peace of mind.

As I mentioned before, Solar SME not only uses in-house installers, but it also has NABCEP-certified technicians on its installation team. NABCEP certification requires training above and beyond what the State of North Carolina requires for installers, so it’s another piece of evidence that you’re getting a system installed by a highly-skilled professional. Ultimately, this should lead to a lower risk of issues.

Solar SME isn’t an SEIA member, so it loses a few points in our ratings. SEIA membership shows a company’s financial commitment to the local industry, which can further solidify the installer’s staying power and ensure your warranty coverage will remain intact. I do think the installer’s history and NABCEP certification somewhat make up for the lack of SEIA membership, though.

Finally, I do an assessment of the installer’s customer ratings on sites like the BBB, TrustPilot and Google Reviews to see what real customers think of the company and to get a sense of the kind of experience you can expect to have. Solar SME excels when it comes to customer care, as is evidenced by its A score and 4.77-star customer rating on the BBB’s website and a 4.5-star rating on Google Reviews. These scores are well above the industry average and suggest that you’re very likely to have a great experience and end up with a system that performs as expected.

I should note that the company has a 3.3-star rating on TrustPilot. I did deduct some points in our ratings, accordingly, although there’s only a single review there.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

I also read through a few dozen customer reviews to see what the company does well and what customers aren’t particularly happy with. Most of the positive reviews mention honest and friendly salespeople, great communication throughout the entire process, systems performing as expected and, most importantly, the company’s willingness to respond quickly to problems post-installation. Negative reviews are few and far between, but they do suggest that there are some one-off issues with systems underperforming based on expectations. Of the 137 reviews currently on the BBB’s website, only 5 mention underperforming systems, so I don’t believe this is an issue you’re likely to run into.

I’ll include 1 positive and 1 negative Solar SME review below to paint a picture of the kind of service you can reasonably expect from this installer.

“My system had a problem with my Enphase Gateway on my SME solar power system. It prevented my being able to get any information about how my system was operating. I contacted [the] Compliance Supervisor, and he ensured that the issue was corrected. A new IQ Gateway CR PCB was sent to me via and [Solar SME] contracted a local Electrician to remove [the] old circuit board and install and dedicate the new one. The fix went well and the system is back in service again. Thank you.” — William D. via BBB

“I signed my contract with Solar SME in December 2021. They were supposed to finish the job in 90 days per contract and if they are late, they will pay my electricity bill. They finally finished the installation in May but failed inspection for fire code & electrical code violations. The installers didn’t know what they were doing; they broke a portion of my ceiling. They finally fixed it in September after multiple complaints. To date they have not fixed the violations to pass inspection & have not paid any of my electricity bills. I don’t trust this company, they don’t do what they say & don’t keep their promises. Please don’t use them.” — Tayabur R. via BBB

Solar SME Customer Service 

10/10

The last part of our company rating process is the only portion that’s not based exclusively on hard data. Instead, I get a good sense of the company’s overall performance and customer service by reading dozens of customer reviews, and I also call the company as a secret shopper to see how they treat customers initially.

As I mentioned above, the customer reviews for Solar SME are overwhelmingly positive. The company has only received 4 complaints in the last year on the BBB, which is far fewer than many competing companies. For comparison, Palmetto Solar has received 77. Most customers seem pleased with the service they get from Solar SME before, during and after the installation, and the company seems to handle communication and warranty claims really well.

My call to Solar SME was also smooth and left me with a positive impression of the company. The representative was friendly and helpful, and they were knowledgeable about the pros and cons of solar and also the services that Solar SME offers. They were able to explain the net metering policy in North Carolina well, and they didn’t seem to use any high-pressure sales tactics.

Why We Chose 8M Solar

8M Solar is our top pick for customers who want the ability to customize their system to suit their needs because it can work with any product brand you want. That means you can optimize for long-term system performance and energy offset by choosing a high-efficiency brand with outstanding durability, like Maxeon, or you can prioritize a lower upfront installation cost by going with a more budget-friendly brand, like LONGi or Canadian Solar.

We also chose 8M because it has outstanding customer review ratings across multiple sites, including an incredible 4.87-star customer rating on the BBB and an unprecedented perfect 5-star rating on Google Reviews, despite having over 300 reviews posted. This all but guarantees outstanding customer service and the company’s commitment to your long-term happiness.

While I think 8M is a great choice for equipment options and customer service, there are some drawbacks to consider. First, the company may have a ton of equipment brands available, but it’s lacking a bit when it comes to add-on services. It also has a great workmanship warranty, but it doesn’t offer a roof leak warranty, so you won’t be covered in the case of water damage following the installation.

What I Like About 8M Solar

I love that 8M Solar has such an outstanding customer review rating. With over 100 installers to choose from in North Carolina, going with a company like 8M that has near-perfect customer ratings on multiple sites is an easy way to ensure you have a positive experience and avoid a less reputable company that will cause nothing but headaches.

I’m also a fan of the lengthy workmanship warranty you get, which lasts for 25 years. That’s more than double the industry standard. Along with the company’s NABCEP certification, this should instill some confidence that your system is being installed by a true professional that will stand behind their work.

What I Don’t Like About 8M Solar

I think the biggest drawback to going with 8M Solar is that you don’t get a roof leak warranty. North Carolina sees above-average amounts of rainfall each year, especially during hurricane season, and a roof leak warranty would go a long way in providing more confidence that your system won’t end up giving you problems down the road.

I also wish 8M Solar offered more in the way of add-on services. It has a great selection of product brands available, but it doesn’t handle roof work in-house, it doesn’t provide access to any energy efficiency upgrades to help you get the most out of your system and it doesn’t provide access to professional system monitoring. Adding these services in would help homeowners customize even further and make 8M a one-stop shop for converting to clean energy.

8M Solar Installation Process and Timeline

8M Solar provides some resources that detail its installation process, and it’s similar to what you’d expect from other installers. You’ll first have a consultation and property inspection, and then 8M’s team will design a system to fit your home and meet your energy demands. If you sign off on the design, 8M will pull permits for your system, and once those are approved, its in-house team will install equipment based on the approved design. Finally, 8M will schedule final inspections with your utility company and local building department, if necessary, before activating your system.

8M Solar doesn’t provide a typical timeline for its installations, but I’d expect it to take between 6 and 8 weeks, which is about the standard in the industry.

8M Solar Standard Services & Financing 

20/25

I’m happy to report that 8M Solar gets perfect marks in our ratings when it comes to its standard services, although it does lose some points because of limited financing options.

First, it gets the maximum score possible for installation services because it installs all of its systems using an in-house installation team. This isn’t always better than a company that outsources the labor to a third party, but in my opinion, it does reduce the risk of poor customer service and issues with the installation since a single party is responsible for everything from start to finish.

8M Solar offers solar batteries alongside panels, and it can work with any battery brand for customization, much like panels. Solar batteries are a great option in North Carolina for two reasons. First, they provide access to emergency power during blackouts, which can come in handy during hurricane season, when the risk of power outages is higher in the state. Additionally, North Carolina has net metering, but the policy is less beneficial than in some other states because the credit rate for excess power is much lower than the retail rate. With a battery, you effectively get access to one-to-one net metering, which means having backup energy storage could help maximize your long-term solar savings.

Each installation from 8M also includes access to a free solar monitoring app that lets you track your system performance and identify issues early on. Provided you use that information to get repairs underway quickly, you could end up boosting your savings as compared to waiting to see dips in savings on your monthly electric bills before calling for repairs.

Cost and Financing Options

8M Solar accepts cash purchases and solar loans, which represent what I consider the better financing options for long-term savings and benefits. However, the lack of leases and PPAs does mean that going solar with 8M is going to be more expensive than if you chose a no-money-down option from a different provider.

Paying in cash means paying your entire system cost upfront, which is the least accessible but also the most beneficial option. You’ll be on the hook for over $33,700, on average in North Carolina, but you’ll get access to the ITC — an average potential value of $10,112 in your area, based on our research — and you’ll see the highest lifetime solar savings possible — an average net savings of around $27,750. If you can pay in cash, I highly recommend going that route to maximize your savings.

Solar loans, which 8M also accepts through third-party financiers, are the next best option, in my opinion. You still get ownership of your system and can take the ITC, but you also get the benefit of spreading out your payments over many years. A loan is a much more realistic option for most homeowners because you’re only responsible for a small down payment upfront instead of the full system cost. You will pay interest on your loan, though, which will reduce your net savings by around $5,000. Still, you should save close to $22,750 after your panels pay for themselves.

Leases and PPAs don’t lead to panel ownership, which means you can’t take the ITC. Additionally, they can complicate the sale of your home if you move before your contract is up. Leases and PPAs also don’t come with a payback period, so your lifetime savings will be much lower — usually between $4,000 and $5,000 over 25 years, which pales in comparison to what you’d see if you paid in cash or with a loan.

I generally don’t recommend leases or PPAs, but I do like when companies offer them because they help keep solar as accessible as possible. As such, 8M did lose some points in our ratings for only accepting cash and solar loans.

8M Solar Extra Services Offered 

1/5

8M is also a bit lackluster when it comes to the add-on services it offers, so this is another area where it lost quite a few points in our company rankings. First, it doesn’t handle roof repairs or replacements. Since it’s not wise to install panels on an old or damaged roof, you might need roof work done before it’s safe to go solar. Solar installers that also offer roofing services make transitioning to clean energy easier and more convenient, as you can have everything done by a single company and have one provider to hold responsible for any issues.

8M doesn’t offer any energy efficiency upgrades, either. Some installers showcase their commitment to energy efficiency and the environment by coupling panel and battery installations with things like window, door and insulation replacement, HVAC upgrades, solar water heater installations and more. These are particularly helpful in an area like North Carolina, where homeowners use well in excess of the national average monthly electricity consumption. Unfortunately, 8M doesn’t provide access to any such upgrades or improvements.

The installer does offer EV chargers, which, in my opinion, holds more weight in North Carolina than it would in most other states. North Carolina ranks 14th in the nation for EV adoption, so having access to at-home charging stations is a major plus. Additionally, coupling your panels with an EV charger from a single company like 8M means you can apply the ITC to all equipment, effectively saving up to 30% on the cost of the charger.

Finally, 8M doesn’t provide professional monitoring services, which means the only way to monitor and identify issues with your system is to check the mobile app you get access to with your installation. Professional monitoring takes the responsibility off of you, making it a more convenient process.

8M Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Installing solar panels on your home is one of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint, and virtually all installations will have a major positive impact on the environment. However, you can increase the good you do for the ecosystem by choosing an installer and manufacturers that take additional steps to maximize their own sustainability.

8M Solar doesn’t appear to make charitable donations to environmentally-friendly organizations, nor does it post sustainability reports. However, it has completed over 2,000 installations, which, cumulatively, have absolutely had a sizable positive effect on the environment.

8M Solar can also install any brand of panel you like, so it gets the maximum possible score for panel sustainability based on our panel review standards. You can choose a panel brand like Maxeon, REC or QCells that uses recycled materials in its products, has recycling programs in place to help keep old panels out of landfills and doesn’t have a history of racism in the workplace, forced labor, unfair wages or other unethical business practices.

8M Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability 

16.9/25

Solar is more expensive in North Carolina than it is in most other states, with average installation prices sitting around $4,000 higher than the national average. As such, it’s especially important to gauge your equipment reliability and assess the warranty coverage your installer provides to protect your investment. I compare panel brands based on 18 criteria, and I think 3 of those are particularly important in an area like North Carolina. Those include the panel efficiency rating, the rate of efficiency degradation and the wind load rating.

Panel efficiency is important because it dictates how well your panels perform and how much of the available sunlight your panels can convert into electricity. Basically, the higher your efficiency rating, the more energy panels will produce and the more savings they’ll provide on your monthly electric bills. High efficiency is particularly important in North Carolina because the rate of consumption is already well above the national average, and the sub-par net metering policy makes it even harder to offset your bills. The best solar panels have ratings of 22% or higher, and since 8M works with all brands, you can easily choose one that tops that. The best in the industry is Maxeon, with efficiency ratings reaching up to 24.2%.

A high efficiency rating is only good, though, if your panels retain a large proportion of that initial efficiency over the long run. Your panel’s degradation rate tells you how quickly your equipment will lose efficiency. A slower rate means greater savings on your energy bills, especially in the long run, and especially in places like North Carolina, where the consumption rate is above average. Most tier-one panels guarantee between 85% and 92% of your panels’ initial efficiency will remain after 25 years. Again, you can choose any panel brand from 8M, which means there are plenty of options that fall within that range. Maxeon is, once again, the industry leader, guaranteeing the full 92% after 25 years.

The wind load rating of a panel tells you the force the equipment can withstand from the rear, which is an important consideration in areas that see strong winds, like North Carolina. A higher wind load rating means your panels will stand up to more severe weather, including hurricanes and tropical storms that frequent North Carolina. The average wind load rating among tier-one panel brands is 3,520 Pascals (Pa), so I recommend choosing a panel brand form 8M that tops that. Maxeon, again, is the industry leader, with a rating of 5,400 Pa.

Warranties and Guarantees

I also review the warranty coverage you get with your system, as this gives you a better idea of the service you’ll receive in case something does go wrong. I look at 4 different types of solar warranties when assessing each solar installer.

First, I look at equipment warranties, which usually come from the manufacturer but are passed to you through your installer. These warranties protect you from damages caused by manufacturer defects. The industry standard for this coverage is 25 years, so most of the brands available from 8M Solar will provide this protection. You’ll get the best coverage available if you choose Maxeon panels, as these have an industry-leading 40-year equipment warranty.

Next, I look at performance warranties, which also usually come from your manufacturer and are passed to you via your installer. These warranties guarantee a certain level of performance from your panels over time, usually guaranteeing that your panels will retain between 85% and 92% of their starting efficiency after 25 years. Most of the panel brands you can choose from 8M will fall within this range. The best options for long-term performance are Maxeon, REC and Panasonic, as they all guarantee the full 92% after 25 years.

Third, I look at workmanship warranties, which cover the installation labor and ensure the installation technique doesn’t lead to system or property damage. Workmanship or labor warranties come from your installer in most cases, and they’re a good indication of how confident your installer is in its abilities. The typical workmanship warranty lasts for 12 years, and 8M Solar excels in this area by offering a 25-year warranty, which is more than double the industry average.

Finally, I look for roof leak warranties. These also come from your installer, in most cases, and they ensure that the installation technique will prevent roof leaks and water damage for the length of the coverage. Most companies don’t offer any roof leak warranty, and unfortunately, 8M Solar is one such company. This is really a shame, as roof leak warranties are especially beneficial in places like North Carolina that see above-average rainfall each year.

8M Solar Company Reputation

21.5/25

8M Solar scores very highly in our ratings when it comes to company reputation. 8M was founded in 2015, which means it has just under a decade of experience behind it. I prefer to promote companies that have a full 10 years of experience, as that longevity suggests that the company will stick around and keep your warranty coverage intact, so 8M loses a few points for sitting just under 10 years of success in the solar industry.

The company uses in-house installers, some of which are certified by NABCEP. Certification requires specialized training for solar equipment installations, so it suggests that you’re going to get a professional and safe installation without issues or delays from failed permit inspections.

8M is not an SEIA member, so we deducted a few points. Membership shows that a company has a financial commitment to the local solar industry, which suggests that it’s successful enough to stick around and keep your warranty coverage intact. I do think that 8M’s experience and overall company reputation suggest that it’s here to stay, but I still would love to see SEIA membership.

Finally, I look at the customer review ratings for each installer I review, including the scores on sites like the BBB, TrustPilot and Google Reviews. Of course, higher scores suggest that a company is committed to quality customer care and customer service, so I prefer to promote companies with high ratings. 8M Solar does not disappoint when it comes to customer ratings.

It has a nearly-perfect 4.87-star review on the BBB’s website and a perfect 5-star review on Google Reviews. These scores are well above the industry average and all but guarantee that you’ll have a positive experience converting to solar if you choose 8M as your installer.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

While I believe total customer review scores are helpful when assessing a company’s reputation, I also think it’s important to read through reviews to see if the complaints are about serious issues. I read through a few dozen 8M Solar reviews to gauge the overall customer experience. Many of the positive reviews mention excellent communication throughout the entire process, the company’s willingness to respond quickly to warranty claims and an overall positive experience. I’m happy to report that there really aren’t any negative reviews. The lowest review on the BBB is 4 stars, and all of the reviews on Google Reviews are perfect 5-star reviews.

I usually include 1 positive and 1 negative customer review to paint a picture of the best and worst service you could receive from an installer, but since there are no real negative reviews for 8M Solar, I’ll include 2 positive reviews from past customers.

“8M installed our solar panels, and I have to say the process was seamless. Our assigned team was very professional and the installation crew was knowledgeable and efficient. We couldn’t be happier with the experience. Our panels were installed just a few weeks ago, and my wife and I are already considering adding more panels to the other side of our roof. Will definitely do more business with 8M in the future.” — Alan S. via BBB

“I could not be happier with my experience with 8M Solar! I was very impressed with their initial sales presentation. They helped me examine my options rather than pushing me towards a certain product. Every part of the process was smooth, everyone I worked with was very friendly, and the communication was great. I was worried about the financing, but the guys worked with me to make it as easy and straightforward as possible. Special shoutout to my sales rep and my project manager! The panels look great aesthetically and I haven’t had any problems. I highly recommend going solar with them!!” — Jo H. via BBB

8M Solar Customer Service 

10/10

Based on the fact that 8M literally has no negative reviews, I had to give the company a perfect score in terms of customer service. The scoring in this section is based on the customer reviews I read through, as well as a call I make to the company as a secret shopper. As I mentioned, all of the customer reviews for 8M online are positive, so it’s hard to find fault with the installer. Based on the reviews I read, you’re almost guaranteed to get good communication, high-quality customer service and a long-standing commitment to the labor and equipment when you go solar with 8M.

My secret shopper call to 8M also went really well and left me with a positive impression of the company. The rep I spoke with was friendly and helpful, was willing to answer questions and seemed knowledgeable about the process of going solar. If the service I got continues throughout the installation process — and the customer reviews suggest that it will — I personally would feel very comfortable going solar with 8M.

Why We Chose NC Solar Now

NC Solar Now is a small, local solar installer that provides the kind of outstanding customer service you’d expect from a local business. The company is one of the very few I’ve ever seen that maintains perfect 5-star customer reviews across every platform online, including the BBB and Google Reviews. You’re basically guaranteed to have an easy and positive experience going solar with NC Solar Now. And speaking of a positive experience, the company offers a lifetime warranty on all roof penetrations, which I’ve never seen before and is particularly useful in North Carolina, where precipitation levels are well above national averages.

The company offers some energy efficiency upgrades alongside its solar services, which is great news for North Carolina residents, who use far more electricity per month than the national average. It also uses two of the top-rated panel brands in our solar panel reviews, so you get high-quality equipment alongside stellar customer service.

While I think NC Solar Now is a great option overall, there are some downsides to consider, too. Namely, the company doesn’t accept leases or PPAs, so financing options are limited, and there aren’t any options for putting no money down. There’s also no workmanship warranty, which I don’t think is a huge deal given the lifetime roof penetration warranty, but it still would be nice to have for greater peace of mind.

What I Like About NC Solar Now

I think the best thing about NC Solar Now is the customer service. The company has perfect customer reviews on the BBB and Google Reviews, which is such a rarity in the solar industry. The fact that every customer raves about the service is a testament to the company’s commitment to customer service and satisfaction. If you’re concerned about solar horror stories that leave you with an inoperable system, property damage with no company accountability or higher bills after installation than before, I think going solar with NC Solar Now is a wise decision.

Not only are customer reviews outstanding, but the company uses NABCEP-certified installers to ensure your installation goes smoothly and is done properly, and it has 15 years of experience behind it, so you’re getting an installation from techs who know what they’re doing. Plus, you get an unprecedented lifetime warranty on the roof penetrations, which means you’re guaranteed to be covered in case of a leak. That’s the kind of peace of mind I don’t think you can get from any other provider.

What I Don’t Like About NC Solar Now

I think the biggest drawback to choosing NC Solar Now is that you don’t get a workmanship warranty. I’ll say again that I don’t think this is a huge deal because the company has 15 years of experience, guarantees its roof penetrations won’t leak for the entire life of your system and uses NABCEP-certified installers. Still, I would like to see some guarantee that the installation labor won’t cause any issues with your system over time.

NC Solar Now also doesn’t accept leases or PPAs. Paying in cash or with a solar loan are the best options anyway, but they’re more expensive and less accessible because of the upfront cost, so no-money-down options would be nice to have.

NC Solar Now Installation Process and Timeline

NC Solar Now doesn’t appear to provide an estimated installation timeline on its website, but based on the fact that not a single customer has complained about a long wait in reviews, I’d expect to wait between 6 and 8 weeks between the day you sign your contract and the day your system goes live. This is the standard in the solar industry.

The process NC Solar Now follows is similar to what you’d expect from just about any other company. You’ll first have an in-person inspection, during which a rep will assess your home, inspect your roof and gauge your energy needs. The design team will then use that information to design a system to meet your needs and fit your home. Once you sign the formal proposal, NC Solar Now will pull permits, and then its in-house installation team will install your equipment once permits are approved. The company will then schedule any necessary final inspections before activating your system.

NC Solar Now Standard Services & Financing 

20/25

NC Solar Now offers all of the basic services I look for in a solar installer. First, it handles all labor using an in-house installation team. Outsourced labor isn’t always worse, but I’d prefer an in-house installation team because it reduces the risk of spotty customer service and communication issues that can lead to delays. With an in-house installer, you have a single company to hold responsible for anything that might go wrong.

NC Solar Now installs solar batteries alongside its panels, including products from Tesla, Enphase, Generac and LG. Batteries are great options in North Carolina for two reasons. First, having on-site storage means you can maintain power even through outages. This is helpful especially in coastal areas in North Carolina that get hit with hurricanes and tropical storms that threaten blackouts. Additionally, North Carolina has net metering to help improve solar savings, but the credit rate for exported energy is well below the retail value. Having a battery means you effectively get access to the best net metering program for your stored energy, which will increase your solar savings significantly.

NC Solar now uses equipment that includes access to a free mobile monitoring app, which lets you see real-time production and consumption data for your system and home. This lets you monitor your system’s production, which means you can keep an eye out for dips that could indicate a system fault. If you use that information to get repairs underway earlier, you’re likely to increase your long-term solar savings by avoiding system outages or underproduction for extended periods.

Cost and Financing Options

NC Solar Now doesn’t publish cost information on its site, which is typical in the industry, as every system and situation is unique. I would expect your total to be around $33,705 before incentives or $23,594 after the investment tax credit (ITC), which is the average cost of solar in North Carolina.

As I mentioned above, NC Solar Now only accepts cash purchases and solar loans, so your financing options are limited. In my opinion, these are the best options for financing your solar array, but they’re less accessible than leases and PPAs.

With a cash purchase, you’ll be responsible for paying the entire system cost upfront. This is always the least accessible option, but it’s especially hard in North Carolina, as solar arrays are more expensive than they are in most other states due to above-average energy demands and consequently larger systems being required. However, if you do pay in cash, you get access to the ITC — an average potential value of $10,112 in North Carolina — and you’ll see the highest savings possible over time — a lifetime average of $27,778, according to our research.

A solar loan is far more accessible because you’ll only have to pay a small down payment upfront rather than the entire system cost. However, you’ll pay interest on the loan, which cuts into your lifetime savings by around $5,000. However, you can still take the ITC, and your savings should average around $22,800, which is still outstanding.

Leases and PPAs are appealing because they don’t require any money down, making them the most accessible options. However, you never own your panels, so you can’t take the ITC, and your lifetime savings will sit around $4,000 to $5,000 in most cases, making them far less beneficial than paying in cash or with a loan. Note that NC Solar Now doesn’t accept leases or PPAs. I think this is kind of a double-edged sword because they help keep solar accessible to all, but they also provide less benefit to the customer over time. Since greater accessibility would be nice, we did deduct some points from NC Solar Now for not accepting these options.

NC Solar Now Extra Services Offered 

2/5

NC Solar Now also loses some points in our ratings because of the limited additional services it offers. First off, it doesn’t offer any roofing services, so if you need roof repairs or a full replacement before it’s safe to install solar, you’ll have to coordinate with a third-party roofing company to get the work done. This is not only less convenient than going with a solar installer that does both, but you also have multiple companies to try to hold accountable if something goes wrong, which can complicate getting a warranty claim approved if you have a leak or property damage down the road.

NC Solar Now does offer some energy efficiency upgrades, including solar attic fans and thermal shields to improve attic insulation. These are always nice to have access to, but I think they’re especially beneficial in North Carolina, where mean daily maximum temperatures can reach into the high 80s in the summer months. Energy efficiency upgrades like these are also nice because North Carolina residents use more electricity per home than most Americans, so efficiency boosts can help bring down consumption and maximize savings after going solar.

The company also installs EV chargers. As I mentioned previously, North Carolina ranks 12th in the country in terms of EV adoption, so I expect that many customers in the state will want to add charging stations to their solar arrays to get the most value possible. You could install a charger down the road, but coupling an EV charger with your system means you can apply the ITC to the charger as well, effectively saving up to 30% on the cost. Additionally, North Carolina has set goals for EV adoption, including having 80,000 zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) registered in the state by 2025. While this isn’t a mandate, it does suggest that the state will issue a ZEV mandate in the future, as some other states already have.

I should also mention that NC Solar Now offers ground-mount systems as well as rooftop systems. This gives you some flexibility for the installation and the opportunity to avoid roof damage and leaks down the road.

Finally, NC Solar Now loses some points in our ratings because it doesn’t offer professional system monitoring. You get access to a free mobile app to monitor your system yourself, but being able to offload that responsibility onto a professional monitoring team would mean you get the peace of mind that production issues will be caught immediately without the need to do any work yourself.

NC Solar Now Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

The EcoWatch team always tries to prioritize sustainability, and to that end, I assess each installer we recommend based on its sustainability practices and the sustainability of the equipment brands it chooses to offer to customers.

Based on the company’s website, it doesn’t look like NC Solar Now makes charitable donations or makes it a point to participate in community service. As such, I think the biggest benefit to the environment comes from the company’s commitment to installing solar and energy efficiency upgrades to help homeowners reduce their carbon footprint and reliance on fossil fuels.

NC Solar Now also offers REC and QCells panels, both of which tie for first with a few other brands in our reviews for panel sustainability. Both manufacturers use recycled materials during the manufacturing process, have recycling programs for old panels and have no history of moral or ethical issues, including racism in the workplace, forced labor, child labor, unfair pay or unsafe working conditions.

Going solar is one of the best things you can do to reduce your carbon footprint and do your part to protect the environment, but I think going solar with a company that offers sustainably-made products like NC Solar just compounds that effect and does even more to combat climate change and global warming.

NC Solar Now Equipment Quality & Reliability 

17.9/25

In addition to looking at the sustainability of the equipment each installer uses, I also assess the quality and reliability to gauge what kind of long-term experience you’ll have with your system. We assess solar panel brands based on 18 factors, but I think 3, in particular, are useful in North Carolina. Those include the efficiency rating, the degradation rate and the max wind load rating.

The efficiency rating of a panel tells you how efficient it is at converting sunlight into usable electricity for your home. The higher the rating, the more power your panels will generate in all conditions. Higher efficiency ratings are always better in terms of offsetting your consumption and maximizing solar savings, and they’re especially useful in places like North Carolina, where the average monthly consumption is well above the industry average. The best solar panels have efficiency ratings of 22% or higher, and the REC and QCells panels from NC Solar Now have ratings of 22.6% and 22.5%, respectively, making them great options in North Carolina.

The degradation rate of a panel tells you how quickly that efficiency rate will degrade. All panels lose efficiency over time, but the brands that have slower degradation rates will continue generating more power for longer periods, boosting your long-term solar savings. Most tier-one panels guarantee that between 85% and 92% of your panel efficiency will remain after 25 years, and both brands from NC Solar Now fall within that range. REC guarantees 92%, and QCells guarantees 90.58%, making them both excellent options for long-term savings, even in a high-consumption area like North Carolina.

Finally, the wind load rating tells you how much upward force your panels can withstand before sustaining damage, which, in real-world conditions, tells you what kinds of wind speeds they can resist. This is a crucial consideration in an area like North Carolina, especially for customers along the coast that see extreme wind speeds from hurricanes and tropical storms. The average wind load rating among tier-one panels is 3,520 Pascals (Pa). REC and QCells have ratings of 4,000 Pa and 3,600 Pa, respectively, making them both solid options for longevity in North Carolina.

Warranties and Guarantees

Good panel specs are important for ensuring long-term system performance, but what I think is even more crucial is the warranty coverage you get from your installer. There are 4 types of solar warranties I consider when assessing an installer: equipment warranties, performance warranties, workmanship warranties and roof leak warranties.

The equipment warranty protects you from manufacturer defects and comes from the manufacturer itself. While the installer doesn’t offer this coverage in most cases, the installer you choose does affect the protection you get because it decides what panel brands to offer. The typical equipment warranty protects you from damage caused by defects for 25 years, and both REC and QCells meet this standard.

The efficiency or performance warranty guarantees that your panels won’t lose more than a specified amount of efficiency over the warranty period — usually no more than 8% to 15% over 25 years. Better performance warranties usually lead to greater long-term savings, as panels that continue to perform at a high level are more likely to continue offsetting your electricity consumption even after decades of performance. REC panels from NC Solar Now guarantee the full 92% efficiency after 25 years, and QCells is slightly lower at 90.58%.

The workmanship warranty comes directly from your installer, in most cases, and it protects you from system damage caused by faulty installation labor. The average workmanship warranty is around 12 years, and unfortunately, NC Solar Now doesn’t offer a labor warranty. However, the company’s 15 years of experience, use of NABCEP-certified installers and perfect customer reviews across the board virtually ensures you won’t run into any issues. Still, formal coverage would be nice to have for peace of mind.

Finally, I look at roof leak warranties, which guarantee that the roof penetrations made to install your panels won’t leak for the warranty term. This is one of the best types of coverage you can get, in my opinion, in an area like North Carolina, as above-average snowfall in the western part of the state and the above average rainfall along the coast — especially during hurricane season — increase the risk of leaks and water damage. Most installers don’t offer a roof leak warranty, so I’m thrilled to note that NC Solar Now does offer one. It’s a lifetime roof leak warranty, too, which I’ve never seen from any other company in the solar industry. This should give you maximum peace of mind that your home is protected from damage following solar installation, and I think this kind of protection is invaluable.

NC Solar Now Company Reputation 

22.5/25

NC Solar Now also scores well in our ratings when it comes to its reputation in the local solar industry. First off, it has 15 years of experience behind it. I’ve seen a lot of companies pop up to take advantage of the increasing demand for solar, only to go out of business a few years later when they find they can’t keep up with the competition. Unfortunately, those companies often void your warranty coverage in the process. A company that has over a decade of experience like NC Solar Now isn’t guaranteed to stay in business and keep your warranty coverage intact, but it’s far more likely to.

As I mentioned earlier, NC Solar Now uses NABCEP-certified installers, which means its technicians have more specialized experience and training for solar installations. This doesn’t always guarantee a problem-free installation, but it’s a good sign that the labor is being done by true professionals, and it does decrease the risk of problems and failed inspections.

Most impressive in terms of company reputation are NC Solar Now’s customer review ratings. Despite being in business for 15 years, it has maintained perfect 5-star customer ratings on the BBB — along with an A+ company rating — and Google Reviews. I haven’t seen this kind of positive feedback from any other installer, and I think it’s a good sign that you’ll have a positive experience if you choose this provider.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

I read through dozens of customer reviews for each installer I recommend because, while aggregate review scores are important, the actual comments from real-world customers paint a clearer picture of the service you’ll receive from your installer. I read through positive and negative reviews to look for what companies do well and where they could stand to improve. I typically include one positive and one negative review for each installer to generalize what kind of service you’ll get, but I have to include 2 positive reviews for NC Solar Now, as there are no negative reviews.

“NC Solar Now did a great job designing and installing our solar power system.  They were very responsive to all concerns and they let us know exactly what to expect every step of the way.  Couldn’t be more pleased.  I highly recommend them!” — Betsy M. via Google Reviews

“From the initial consultation to the final inspection, every step of the process was handled with utmost professionalism and expertise. [The] team’s knowledge and dedication were evident throughout, ensuring that the installation was completed seamlessly and efficiently. Not only were we impressed by the quality of workmanship, but also by the level of communication and transparency demonstrated. Any questions or concerns we had were promptly addressed, and [the] staff took the time to explain every aspect of the installation process, putting our minds at ease. Once again, thank you for transforming our home with solar energy and for exceeding our expectations every step of the way. Highly recommended if anyone is looking to go solar on their homes.” — Baljit S. via Google Reviews

NC Solar Now Customer Service 

10/10

The last part of our company review process is the only area where we use subjective scoring. I read through customer reviews to see what customers specifically like and dislike about the company and its installation process, and I also call the installer as a secret shopper to gauge the initial customer service you can expect.

As I mentioned above, NC Solar Now is one of the only installers in the entire country to maintain perfect customer review scores across multiple platforms. While it only has a single review on the BBB, it has around 500 on Google Reviews, and they’re all positive. This is unprecedented in the solar industry, and it all but guarantees your experience will be a positive one.

My secret shopper call to NC Solar Now also went well. I was connected to a live representative quickly, and they were friendly and knowledgeable about the process and benefits of going solar. They stayed on the phone and answered some questions I had, and I didn’t feel pressured into scheduling an appointment or property inspection.