Solar Panel FAQs

  • Does the City of High Point allow electric customers to install solar panels?

Yes. The City of High Point allows all electric customers to install solar panels.

  • Is there a limit on how many Solar Panels I am allowed to install?

Yes. The City of High Point allows Residential electric customers to install up to 10 kWdc of solar panels which is about 25 to 30 depending on the solar panel electrical output; and Industrial and Commercial customers to install up to 20 kWdc of solar panels which is about 50 to 60 depending on the solar panel electrical output.

NOTE: Larger systems may be considered for Industrial and Commercial customers.

  • Is it worth it to install Solar Panels?

It depends on how much the Solar Panels cost.

If the cost per watt to install the Solar Panels is $1, the payback is about 16 years.

If the cost per watt to install the Solar Panels is $2, the payback is about 32 years.

Ask your solar installer what the cost per watt to install the Solar Panels is to determine if it is worth it to you.

  • Will I still have an electric bill?

Yes, there are fixed fees required for providing electrical service that will remain as long as you are connected to the grid. Also, you will rely on the grid for power when the sun is not shining. If the system is large enough to absorb these costs, there may be billing periods that result in a credit with zero amount due.

  • Is my home a good candidate for Solar?

The angle and direction the roof is facing plays a critical role in this and needs to be determined by a qualified installer. Make sure to get at least three quotes and ask each installer about the angle. Unfortunately, some homeowners have received systems that are at undesirable directions and angles, which result in a reduction of solar output. Also, the age of the roof needs to be considered when installing roof top solar. Finally, trees that shade the roof during solar production hours are not recommended.

  • What is the current federal tax credit for Solar Panels?

There is a 30% federal tax credit for systems installed by the end of 2032.

  • What should I do before I consider installing Solar Panels?

Home improvements such as insulation upgrades, air sealing, and HVAC upgrades are great ways to help lower your energy usage as well as the required size of the solar array that will be required. Also, you can call us to request your electrical usage summary for the last year or so to help determine the size solar needed.

  • What is the typical lifetime warranty for Solar Panels?

The typical lifetime of solar panels is 25 years.

  • Who is responsible for my Solar Panel Installation?

You, the homeowner, have total responsibility and liability for the residential solar panel installation.

  •  Can I do prepaid billing with Solar Panels?

No, solar accounts must be standard billed accounts and cannot be prepaid. Before interconnection can take place, these changes must occur and any required deposits paid.

 

  • Does the City of High Point offer a solar energy program for electric customers?

The City of High Point offers Buy-All Sell-All as the connection method. 

 

  • Why does the City of High Point not offer Net Metering? 

The City of High Point does not offer net metering since net metering does not properly allocate costs among our electric customers.  Net metering unfairly shifts the cost of maintaining the grid and transmitting electricity onto their non-solar customers. As solar panels proliferate, the fixed costs of the power grid must be shared over a smaller amount of electricity sold.



Contact Brad Wright at 336.883.3054 or bradley.wright@highpointnc.gov for any questions