Energy freedom: The role of solar power in North Carolina’s future Image By Jack Morrissey North Carolina is a longstanding leader in energy innovation, but with growth comes the challenge of meeting our rising energy demands with affordable, abundant and clean sources. Back in 2007, North Carolina became the first state in the Southeast to adopt a Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard – a major step that encouraged a more diverse and competitive energy market. Since then, we’ve continued to lead the way, ranking fourth in the nation in solar generating capacity by 2023 with over 6,600 megawatts produced and fifth in total power generation. We all want affordable, reliable power, and as conservatives, we know the best way to achieve that is through competition and choice – not government mandates. That is why solar power, especially in residential areas, is a crucial component of North Carolina’s energy future. Empowering consumers At its core, an all-of-the-above energy strategy is about consumer freedom: Homeowners should have the power to choose where their energy comes from, whether that’s through traditional utilities, solar panels or a combination of both. When people have choices, competition increases, prices go down and innovation flourishes. North Carolina is already one of the top states for solar. It’s not because of government interference but because the free market works. Conservatives have always fought for property rights, and that applies here as well. When homeowners generate their own power, they reduce strain on the grid, making energy more reliable for everyone. If you own a home and want to install solar panels, you should be able to do so without excessive red tape or utility monopolies standing in the way. We should be encouraging private investment and modernization. A stronger, more diversified energy grid – one that is built on an all-of-the-above framework of solar, nuclear, natural gas and other sources – means we’re less vulnerable to blackouts during extreme weather or peak demand. For example, Hurricane Helene in late September 2024 caused catastrophic damage in western North Carolina, leading to widespread power outages. Expanding our energy portfolio can help protect the grid from disasters like Hurricane Helene. In the storm’s aftermath, volunteers deployed solar power generators to the affected areas, providing cleaner and more reliable energy sources during the long outages. Promoting economic opportunity Investing in a diverse energy portfolio doesn’t just make our power grid stronger – it also creates a greater economic opportunity for North Carolinians. Natron Energy, the first commercial sodium-ion battery producer in the United States, is building a 437-acre gigafactory in Edgecombe County, NC. It’s projected to add a $3.4 billion boost to North Carolina’s economy over the next twelve years. It’s a clear example that showcases why we should embrace more energy solutions that can be strong and reliable for communities across the state. Taking action In recent years, the North Carolina General Assembly has also joined the solar conversation. With bills to bolster the long-term future of, and public trust in, the burgeoning solar industry, the state legislature is ensuring that solar power is a part of our state’s energy portfolio moving forward. As conservatives, we should applaud efforts to empower North Carolinians to control where their power comes from, and residential solar is a key part of this puzzle. North Carolina’s state-level initiatives can be further supported with federal programs that incentivize and promote clean energy solutions. Clean energy incentives have helped bolster renewable energy in our state through billions of dollars in investments, and these incentives should continue to ensure American energy dominance not just here in North Carolina but on the world stage. A thriving solar sector doesn’t mean abandoning traditional energy sources; it means expanding our options, creating jobs and keeping North Carolina ahead in energy leadership and innovation. With smart policy choices – like the proposed residential solar tax credit and responsible regulations for large-scale solar projects – we can strike a balance between energy security, economic growth and environmental stewardship. Energy independence, consumer choice and market-based solutions are at the heart of conservative values. By embracing solar as part of our state’s energy future, we’re ensuring North Carolina stays economically strong, competitive and resilient. Jack Morrissey is the North Carolina State Director at the American Conservation Coalition (ACC). He’s based in Charlotte.
