Solar Panels in Virginia2026 Cost Guide & Incentives
Average cost, state incentives, payback estimates, and how to find certified installers in Virginia.
$17,000–$28,000
Avg system cost
$11,900–$19,600
After 30% ITC
4.7 hrs/day
Peak sun hours
$0.130/kWh
Avg rate
Is Solar Worth It in Virginia?
Based on a home with a $150/month electric bill in Virginia
Est. system size
7.4 kW
Gross cost
$21,534
Federal tax credit
−$6,460
Net cost
$15,074
Year-1 savings
$1,800
20-year savings
$45,911
Estimated payback: 8.4 years — then 11 years of free electricity.
* Estimates assume $2.90/W installed, 92% solar offset, and 3% annual electricity rate inflation. Get an installer quote to confirm your actual savings.
Virginia Solar Incentives & Policies
Federal
Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30%
of total system cost — off your federal tax bill
Available through 2032
Virginia State
State Incentive
Property tax exemption + VCEA expanding solar access
Additional Virginia Solar Policies
Net Metering: Available — excess energy credited to your bill
Property Tax Exemption: Solar system value exempt from property taxes
Sales Tax Exemption: Sales tax applies to solar equipment purchase
Solar Installation Cost in Virginia by System Size
| System size | Gross cost | After 30% ITC | Year-1 savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $12,272,800 | $8,590,960 | $1,025,869/yr |
| 7 kW | $17,181,920 | $12,027,344 | $1,436,217/yr |
| 9 kW | $22,091,040 | $15,463,728 | $1,846,564/yr |
| 12 kW | $29,454,720 | $20,618,304 | $2,462,086/yr |
* Costs based on $2.90/W national average. Virginia installer pricing may vary ±15%.
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Frequently Asked Questions — Solar in Virginia
How much do solar panels cost in Virginia?
Solar installation in Virginia typically costs $17,000–$28,000 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit, most homeowners pay $11,900–$19,600 net.
Is solar worth it in Virginia?
Yes — Virginia homeowners benefit from 4.7 average peak sun hours per day. The 30% federal ITC combined with property tax exemption + vcea expanding solar access make the financial case strong for most homeowners.
What state incentives are available for solar in Virginia?
Property tax exemption + VCEA expanding solar access. On top of state incentives, all Virginia homeowners qualify for the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Your solar system is also exempt from property tax assessment.
How long is the payback period for solar in Virginia?
Based on Virginia's average electricity rate of $0.130/kWh and 4.7 peak sun hours, most homeowners see payback in 8.4–11 years. Systems then produce free electricity for 15–20+ more years.
Does Virginia have net metering?
Yes — Virginia has a net metering policy that credits your utility bill for excess electricity your system sends back to the grid. This significantly improves your ROI.