VirginiaSolar Panel Costs & Savings
Virginia averages 4.3 hrs of peak sun per day with an average payback period of 10 years. Homeowners can save $31,200 over 20 years.
Peak Sun Hours
4.3 hrs
per day
6kW System Cost
$18,000
before incentives
Payback Period
10 yrs
average
20-Year Savings
$31,200
estimated
Solar Cost Breakdown in Virginia
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| 6kW System Cost ($3/W) | $18,000 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,400 |
| Net Cost | $12,600 |
Net Metering
Full Net Metering
Electricity Rate
14.64¢/kWh
Avg Monthly Bill
$151/mo
Solar Incentives in Virginia
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The federal ITC allows homeowners to deduct 30% of solar installation costs from federal taxes. Available for systems installed through 2032, stepping down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
Virginia Solar Property Tax Exemption
Virginia exempts solar installations from local property tax assessment.
Solar Potential by ZIP Code in Virginia
| ZIP | City | Sun Hours | Annual Savings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23219 | Richmond | 4.4 hrs | $1,160 | 10.9 yrs |
| 23451 | Virginia Beach | 4.4 hrs | $1,160 | 10.9 yrs |
| 23501 | Norfolk | 4.4 hrs | $1,160 | 10.9 yrs |
| 23601 | Newport News | 4.4 hrs | $1,160 | 10.9 yrs |
| 20101 | Chantilly | 4.3 hrs | $1,133 | 11.1 yrs |
| 22901 | Charlottesville | 4.3 hrs | $1,133 | 11.1 yrs |
| 23060 | Glen Allen | 4.3 hrs | $1,133 | 11.1 yrs |
| 24501 | Lynchburg | 4.3 hrs | $1,133 | 11.1 yrs |
| 22003 | Annandale | 4.2 hrs | $1,107 | 11.4 yrs |
| 22101 | McLean | 4.2 hrs | $1,107 | 11.4 yrs |
| 22301 | Alexandria | 4.2 hrs | $1,107 | 11.4 yrs |
| 22601 | Winchester | 4.2 hrs | $1,107 | 11.4 yrs |
| 22801 | Harrisonburg | 4.2 hrs | $1,107 | 11.4 yrs |
| 24001 | Roanoke | 4.2 hrs | $1,107 | 11.4 yrs |
| 24101 | Hardy | 4.2 hrs | $1,107 | 11.4 yrs |
| 24401 | Staunton | 4.2 hrs | $1,107 | 11.4 yrs |
| 24201 | Bristol | 4.1 hrs | $1,080 | 11.7 yrs |
Compare With Other States
More Data for Virginia
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Virginia?
A typical 6kW solar system in Virginia costs approximately $18,000 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit ($5,400), the net cost is approximately $12,600.
How long does solar take to pay for itself in Virginia?
The average solar payback period in Virginia is 10 years, slower than the national average of 9.4 years. After payback, homeowners enjoy free electricity for the remaining system life.
Does Virginia have net metering?
Virginia has full net metering. Homeowners receive full retail rate credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid.
How much sun does Virginia get for solar?
Virginia averages 4.3 peak sun hours per day, which is 0.2 hours below the national average. A 6kW system produces approximately 9,417 kWh per year.
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Data verified March 2026 · Source: NREL, DSIRE, EIA