Solar Panels in Virginia

Make the best decision about investing in solar power in Virginia

See solar options
EnergyBot
>
Solar Panels
>
Virginia

Solar in Virginia

Virginia currently ranks 11th in solar generation with enough solar generation to power almost 300,000 homes. In March of 2020 Virginia passed the Clean Economy Act that aim to to make the state carbon neutral by 2050.

Cost of solar panels in Virginia

How much do solar panels cost in Virginia? 

The average price for a home solar panel system in Virginia is $15,000 or about $2.89 per watt. Systems will vary depending on the types of solar panels you choose and the size of your system. When shopping for solar panels you should consider getting multiple quotes from various installers.

How long does it take to pay off solar panels in Virginia?

The average payback period for solar panels in Virginia is around 11.5 years years. Your payback period will depend on the cost of your system and the amount of power it generates. The more energy your system generates the faster it will pay for itself.

Are solar panels worth it in Virginia?

Everyone has their own method for determining if solar is “worth it”. If your objective is to leverage solar to eliminate or reduce your electric bill you have different expectations of someone who is more interested in reducing their carbon footprint. 

To help you determine the best option for you you can use this solar calculator that will weigh different solar options and other renewable energy options.

Why invest in solar panels in Virginia

Everyone has their own reasons for going solar, but these are the three most common.

Reduce your carbon footprint

Solar has roughly 20 times less carbon output than coal-powered energy sources. After three years of use, solar systems are completely carbon neutral and remain so for the duration of their lifespan. 

In short, if you want to reduce your carbon footprint going solar is a great option. 

Lower electricity bills

When you have your own solar system you are putting energy back into the grid. Your utility rewards you by crediting back the value of the energy you put into the grid. For example, if your system generates 2,500 kWh in a month and you use 2,500 kWh in that month you would have a $0 electric bill.

In most cases, if your system generates more energy than you use the credits will roll over to the next month.

Become energy independent

With the right solar system, you could potentially have a self-sufficient power system for your home. This means you don’t have to rely on the grid for energy. If the grid has an outage you could still power your home with your solar system. 

Those who are trying to become energy independent often pair their solar system with a battery. This allows you to store electricity and use it when you need it.

Solar panel incentives in Virginia

Find solar incentives in Virginia

Virginia Solar Incentives

In addition to the 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit, you may be eligible for solar incentives that could significantly reduce the cost of solar panel installation. Some incentives are statewide and others are more local. Your city, utility, or other local company could offer hundreds or thousands of dollars in incentives to install solar systems.

This table shows the available incentives in Virginia. But, just because you don't see it here doesn't mean it doesn't exist. Check with your local utility for other potential incentives.

Residential Property Tax Exemption: Virginia law allows localities to exempt or partially exempt solar from property taxes. Not all localities allow this exemption, but it can be a significant benefit where available.

Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs): With the Virginia Clean Economy Act, you can earn one SREC for each megawatt-hour (MWh) of clean electricity your panels produce. You can sell these SRECs to utilities and earn extra income.

Virginia Federal Solar Tax Credit

Like every other state, new solar panel systems in Virginia are eligible to receive the federal solar tax credit of 26%. This credit is applied on your annual income tax credit.

Buying vs Leasing Solar Panels in Virginia

There are many options when it comes time to purchase our solar panels. You can finance, lease, or pay the entire cost upfront. The right choice will depend on your financial situation and the costs of your system and other factors. Our solar calculator will help you weigh your options. You can find more information on leasing vs buying solar panels here.