Why You Can Trust CNET Your Guide to Virginia Solar Panel Costs, Incentives and Installers
Learn about the incentives and benefits of solar panels in the Old Dominion to steer clear of rising electricity rates.
Sunrise over Richmond could mean clean energy if you go solar in Virginia.
Solar panels in Virginia are a worthy investment for homeowners seeking to use renewable solar energy and steer clear of high electricity bills. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, sunny Virginia already generates more solar energy than 39 other states, thanks to solar investments of over $4 billion and nearly 5,000 jobs in the Virginia solar industry.
The average electricity rate in Virginia increased by 18% in the last year, according to CNET's sister publication SaveOnEnergy. Installing solar panels can lower your annual energy costs, and available financing options and incentives help make solar panels more affordable. Let's break down Virginia solar panel costs and incentives and explore trusted solar companies.
Average cost of solar panels in Virginia
Here's a look at the average cash price for a 5-kilowatt system before factoring in tax credits incentives, according to data from FindEnergy.com.
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Virginia solar panel costs
| System size (kW) | Price per watt | Total cost |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | $3.59 | $17,950 |
How to pay for solar panels in Virginia
Multiple payment options are available for Virginians interested in solar panels. You can qualify for incentives and rebates with some financing options.
Paying in cash is not only interest-free but also allows you to take advantage of solar incentives. If you pay in cash, be ready for substantial upfront costs. You can also get incentives with a solar loan. Loan terms and rates can vary, so shop around for low-interest rates and get multiple quotes before signing on the dotted line. Other loan options to look into are personal loans from your bank or home equity loans.
Solar leases and power-purchase agreements, where you don't own the solar panels but pay a fee for them or buy the power they produce, help reduce upfront costs. However, the terms of these agreements -- especially any rate escalators -- are very important to the return on investment. People with solar leases or PPAs typically save less than those who own the panels outright and typically aren't eligible for tax rebates.
Advertiser Disclosure: SaveOnEnergy, owned by CNET's parent company Red Ventures, can help you find the right energy fit for your home. The SaveOnEnergy marketplace helps you search, compare, sign up and save on the right energy fit for your home -- all for free. If you're interested in solar, answer a few questions to get an exact price quote from our solar advisers.
Virginia solar panel incentives and rebates
The state of Virginia has incentives for solar, such as property tax exemptions, but the most notable is the federal Residential Clean Energy Credit. This 30% solar tax credit applies to solar panel systems purchased from the beginning of 2022 through 2032. Explore additional solar incentives in Virginia in the following table.
| Program | Description |
|---|---|
| Net Metering | Energy companies give credits in exchange for excess energy generated by your solar system. In Virginia, net metering applies to systems generating up to 20kW. Check with your local utility for specific details. |
| Property Tax Exemption | State law exempts homeowners from property taxes on solar panel systems or other solar equipment (up to 25 kW). |
| Residential Clean Energy Credit | This federal tax incentive allows homeowners to claim a 30% tax credit for systems installed before 2032. The credit decreases to 26% in 2033 then to 22% in 2034. The credit may expire in 2035 unless it is renewed. |
Virginia solar panel companies
According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, about 60 solar installers operate in Virginia. Here's a rundown of some solar companies operating in the state, including some national companies that appear on CNET's best solar companies list.
ADT Solar
Headquartered in Florida, ADT Solar provides solar services to Virginia, Washington, D.C. and 22 other US states. The company will provide you with a free quote to see the cost of getting solar power for their homes. ADT Solar's monocrystalline solar panels are equipped with a 25-year warranty for panel production and quality of work. Solar battery options compatible with ADT include name brands like the Tesla Powerwall and Enphase IQ batteries. If you want a nationwide solar company that handles the permit, inspection and installation processes, ADT Solar may be a good choice.
Ipsun Solar
As a local solar installer, Ipsun Solar serves Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. Its team handles the installation process, starting with an online solar proposal and guiding you from purchase to power. Ipsun Solar uses name-brand products like SolarEdge Inverters, Tesla Powerwall and Enphase. In addition to the 25-year manufacturer warranty on solar panels and inverters, Ipsun Solar offers a 12-year quality-of-work warranty for installation. If you're interested in a longer warranty, the company offers a 30-year extended warranty through Solar Insure. Financing options include cash purchase and solar loans or leases. The company does not offer PPAs.
Nova Solar
For over 15 years, Nova Solar has provided solar services to residents of Virginia, Washington, D.C. and Maryland. The company handles the process from design to installation with its licensed in-house team. Nova Solar installs REC Alpha solar panels with an extended warranty lasting a total of 25 years. The company offers other installation options like Q Cells solar panels, Enphase microinverters and SolarEdge inverters and power optimizers. Nova Solar includes a 20-year quality of work warranty in addition to manufacturer warranties on installed products.
Palmetto Solar
Since 2010, Palmetto Solar has operated in the solar industry and now offers installation in 26 states. You can receive a free quote and guidance from its support team throughout their solar installation experience. Palmetto installs Q Cells and REC Alpha solar panels with 25-year performance warranties. Palmetto Protect is a subscription service to monitor your solar system's performance and any needed maintenance.
SunPower Solar
SunPower Solar is a national solar company headquartered in California. The company produces its own high-quality branded products, such as the Maxeon solar panels and SunValut solar batteries. While these products may be pricier than competitors', the warranty guarantees solar panel production at 92% capacity after 25 years. Many competitors only guarantee up to 85% production after 25 years.
Other factors about installing solar panels
Are solar panels right for your home? Consider the following five things about solar installation before making a final decision.
| Homeowners insurance | Contact your home insurance company to ensure your policy can cover a solar system. |
|---|---|
| Home location | Solar panels work best in direct sunlight. Obstructions like neighboring buildings or trees will hamper production. |
| Neighborhood HOA rules | Check with your home owners association or other neighborhood association to see if there are any rules regarding solar panel installation and placement. HOAs in Virginia cannot prohibit solar panels, but may be able to impose restrictions. |
| Roof condition | Certified installers should provide roof maintenance recommendations prior to installation. Include potential repairs in your budget. |
| Own or rent | Homeowners receive more benefits from tax credits and incentives. Renters interested in solar can check out community solar programs, such as Arcadia. |
Virginia solar power FAQs
Are solar panels in Virginia worth it?
Yes. Solar panels are often a worthwhile investment for residents of Virginia looking to lower their energy bills and power their homes with clean energy. Reliable solar installers should provide you with an exact price quote and a potential return on investment. Getting at least four or five quotes from various solar companies can ensure you get the best price for your home.
How much do solar panels cost in Virginia?
The average cost of solar panels in Virginia is about $35,588 for a 9 kW system, according to Find Energy. Solar panels in Virginia cost more than the nationwide average. Consider all financing options to determine what's best for your budget.
Are solar panels good for the environment?
Yes. Though solar panel manufacturing has an impact on the environment, it is a more sustainable source than fossil fuels like coal and gas. Fossil fuels emit carbon dioxide, which is a main contributor to climate change.