Solar Programs and Classes

Home Energy Savings, the Environment, & You!

October 8 | Virtual

Interested in reducing your carbon footprint, saving energy, and creating a cozier home this winter?  Let Cary help you prepare for cooler temperatures with this free online lunch-and-learn session! Enjoy tips for creating a more energy efficient home, info on home energy usage and it’s environmental impact, and Q&A with local experts. Registration required.

Solar Sustainability Tour

November 1 | South Cary Water Reclamation Facility

Tour Cary’s solar farm at the South Cary Water Reclamation Facility (SCWRF) and learn more about how we are using innovations in sustainability to help build a more resilient future. Registration required.

Residential Solar

December 3 | Virtual

Solar energy is an important part of reducing carbon emissions and building a sustainable and resilient community. Join us to discover if solar is the right choice for you and enjoy Q&A with local experts. This program is virtual. Registration required.

Solar, Cary, and You!

Solar energy is an important part of reducing carbon emissions and building a sustainable and resilient community. Cary has been designated as a Gold Level Community by the Department of Energy's SolSmart program due to our streamlined processes that make it faster, easier, and more affordable for residents to access solar installation. 

For more information about the basics of solar energy, your solar options, and questions to ask solar professionals, read the Residential Consumer Guide to Solar Power and visit the Department of Energy’s Homeowner’s Guide to Going Solar.

Installing Solar in Cary

Cary is committed to exceptional service in all things, including solar installation. According to Cary's Land Development Ordinance home solar installations, including photovoltaic cells and solar water heaters, are allowed everywhere in Cary. The installation of these solar systems is regulated by Cary’s building permit process and reviewed for compliance with the LDO and North Carolina Building and Electrical Code.

Cary has created resources specific to Cary residents seeking to install solar on their homes. Question 19 of Cary's FAQ page has a great overview of solar permitting in Cary. Cary's solar installation and permitting checklist goes step by step through the permitting process. Here is the official letter saying solar is permitted in Cary. Processing time for online permit applications is 3 business days from the submittal date of a complete and accurate application. As always, you can contact 311 if you have any additional questions about the permitting process as you go.

Solar for Your Home

Solar energy uses a renewable energy source – the sun – and provides many benefits for individuals and the community. It improves environmental quality, reduces carbon emissions and air pollution, saves money on energy costs, and improves electric grid resilience. To support you in installing solar on your home, Cary has compiled a list of information and FAQ for you to use below.

What is the process of installing solar equipment?

While installing solar equipment may seem complicated, don't worry! This is a process that many of your neighbors have successfully completed and you can do as well. In addition to reviewing Cary's solar permitting check list, consider looking at resources that walk you through the process from start to finish. The Solar Energy Industries Association's Residential Consumer Guide to Solar Power and the Interstate Renewable Energy Council's Solar Smart Checklist are both helpful guides.

How do I assess my home's solar potential?

It is important to understand the potential solar production of your home. While a certified solar professional can give you the best information, it may be helpful to do some initial investigating on your own. Investigate your property’s solar potential and estimated energy savings using Google's Project Sunroof or the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s PVWatts Calculator.

How do I pick a solar company? 

The Solar Energy Industries Association has an excellent Solar Consumer Resource Portal, which can walk your through some general things to think about, as well as a North Carolina Solar Information Sheet, which includes reviews of NC solar companies, costs and more. Certified solar practitioners can be found through the Board Certified Professionals Directory, provided by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. 

What about solar financing?

While solar installations often pay for themselves over time through energy savings, they still require an upfront investment by the homeowners. To help offset this cost, consider taking advantage of North Carolina tax credits by asking your contractor what incentive programs may be available for you. The Clean Energy States Alliance also has a Homeowner's Guide to Solar Financing which may provide you with additional financial information.