West VirginiaSolar Panel Costs & Savings
West Virginia averages 3.8 hrs of peak sun per day with an average payback period of 12 years. Homeowners can save $24,200 over 20 years.
Peak Sun Hours
3.8 hrs
per day
6kW System Cost
$18,900
before incentives
Payback Period
12 yrs
average
20-Year Savings
$24,200
estimated
Solar Cost Breakdown in West Virginia
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| 6kW System Cost ($3.15/W) | $18,900 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,670 |
| Net Cost | $13,230 |
Net Metering
No Net Metering
Electricity Rate
13.44¢/kWh
Avg Monthly Bill
$137/mo
Solar Incentives in West 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.
Solar Potential by ZIP Code in West Virginia
| ZIP | City | Sun Hours | Annual Savings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25401 | Martinsburg | 3.9 hrs | $944 | 14 yrs |
| 25301 | Charleston | 3.8 hrs | $919 | 14.4 yrs |
| 25701 | Huntington | 3.8 hrs | $919 | 14.4 yrs |
| 24701 | Bluefield | 3.8 hrs | $919 | 14.4 yrs |
| 25001 | Advent | 3.8 hrs | $919 | 14.4 yrs |
| 25801 | Beckley | 3.8 hrs | $919 | 14.4 yrs |
| 26101 | Parkersburg | 3.8 hrs | $919 | 14.4 yrs |
| 26003 | Wheeling | 3.7 hrs | $895 | 14.8 yrs |
| 26501 | Morgantown | 3.7 hrs | $895 | 14.8 yrs |
| 26201 | Buckhannon | 3.7 hrs | $895 | 14.8 yrs |
Compare With Other States
More Data for West Virginia
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in West Virginia?
A typical 6kW solar system in West Virginia costs approximately $18,900 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit ($5,670), the net cost is approximately $13,230.
How long does solar take to pay for itself in West Virginia?
The average solar payback period in West Virginia is 12 years, slower than the national average of 9.4 years. After payback, homeowners enjoy free electricity for the remaining system life.
Does West Virginia have net metering?
West Virginia has no net metering. Net metering is not currently available statewide, which may affect solar savings calculations.
How much sun does West Virginia get for solar?
West Virginia averages 3.8 peak sun hours per day, which is 0.7 hours below the national average. A 6kW system produces approximately 8,322 kWh per year.
Was this data helpful?
Data verified March 2026 · Source: NREL, DSIRE, EIA