Important Note: The Duke Energy PowerPair program has limited capacity and availability varies by area. Some regions have already reached capacity. Contact 8MSolar today to find out if you’re still eligible — spots go fast.
Overview of North Carolina’s PowerPair Solar and Battery Program
Duke Energy’s PowerPair Solar Plus Battery Incentive is one of the most significant solar incentive programs available to North Carolina homeowners. Approved in January 2024, PowerPair was designed to test how combined solar and battery storage systems can help stabilize North Carolina’s electric grid and reduce the need for additional power plants — while helping homeowners dramatically cut their energy costs.
PowerPair builds on the success of Duke Energy’s previous solar incentive program (2018–2023), which delivered $62 million in incentives under House Bill 589. The new program goes further by pairing solar with battery storage — making home energy more resilient, more affordable, and more independent from the grid.
How Does the PowerPair Incentive Work?
Duke Energy customers in North Carolina who install a new qualifying solar and battery system can receive up to $9,000 in upfront incentives. Combined with the 30% Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), eligible homeowners can save up to 56% on the combined cost of their solar and battery system.
- Solar incentive: $0.36 per watt installed, up to $3,600 for a maximum 10kW AC system
- Battery incentive: $400 per kWh of installed capacity, up to $5,400 for a maximum 13.5 kWh battery
- Total upfront incentive: Up to $9,000
- Additional monthly battery incentive: Some customers may qualify for an ongoing monthly payment of $25–$55+ for participating in Duke Energy’s demand response program
| Incentive Rate | Max System Size | Max Incentive Value | Average System Price | Savings | |
| PV Solar | $0.36 per watt | 10kW AC | $3,600 | $23,000 | 16% off |
| Battery Storage | $400 per kWh | 13.5 kWh | $5,400 | $11,000 | 49% off |
| PowerPair Total | $9,000 | $25,000 | 36% off | ||
| PowerPair + 30% Federal Tax Credit | $19,200 | $14,800 | 56% off |
How Long Will the Program Last?
The PowerPair program has a fixed capacity limit — it supports up to 60,000 kW of solar capacity, roughly equivalent to 6,000 homes at the maximum 10kW system size. Once that limit is reached, the program closes. Capacity is not unlimited and varies by service area — some regions within Duke Energy’s NC territory have already filled their allotment.
This is not a program you can wait on. The combination of limited spots, significant savings, and rising electricity rates means the homeowners who act soonest benefit the most. 8MSolar strongly recommends reaching out for a consultation as early as possible to confirm availability in your area.
Eligibility for the PowerPair Incentive
Any Duke Energy customer in North Carolina installing a new qualifying solar and battery system may be eligible. The program applies to both electric and gas homes. Key eligibility requirements include:
Battery Storage Requirements
- Maximum of 13.5 kWh battery capacity per installation
- $400 incentive per kWh of installed capacity, up to $5,400
- Battery must be installed alongside a new qualifying solar system
Solar Power Requirements
- Maximum of 10kW AC solar capacity
- $0.36 per watt incentive, up to $3,600
- Must be a new solar installation — existing solar systems do not qualify
- Installation must be completed by a Duke Energy approved solar installer
Why Solar + Battery Storage Makes Sense
The PowerPair program isn’t just about the incentive — it’s about building a smarter, more resilient home energy system. Here’s why pairing solar with battery storage is the right move for most NC homeowners:
- Energy independence: Store the power your panels produce during the day and use it at night or during cloudy periods — reducing your reliance on the grid year-round.
- Outage protection: When the grid goes down, your battery keeps your home powered. Critical appliances — lights, refrigerator, medical equipment — stay on when your neighbors go dark.
- Rate protection: As Duke Energy rates continue to rise, your stored solar energy shields you from peak-hour pricing and future rate increases.
- Monthly demand response payments: By allowing Duke Energy to briefly draw on your battery during high-demand grid events, qualifying customers can earn $25–$55+ per month in ongoing incentive payments on top of the upfront rebate.
What’s Next?
Program availability varies by area and remaining capacity is limited. The design, approval, and installation process takes time — and you can only lock in your spot once your application is accepted. The sooner you start, the better your chances of securing this incentive before it closes in your area.
Contact 8MSolar today for a free consultation. We’ll confirm whether PowerPair is still available in your area, walk you through the application process, and design a solar and battery system that maximizes your incentive and long-term savings. For additional program details, visit duke-energy.com/powerpair.