Delaware Solar Overview
Delaware is tiny—second smallest state—but do not let that fool you. The solar policies here are actually pretty reasonable. Net metering through Delmarva Power works the way it should (1:1 credits), and the Green Energy Program grants can help offset costs when funding is available. My honest take: Delaware is not the sunniest state, but the policy environment makes up for it. If you are in Delaware and the grants are available, it is worth looking into seriously.
Delaware offers a favorable environment for residential solar despite its small size. True net metering, state grants when available, and property tax exemptions create reasonable economics for homeowners going solar.
Why Delaware Works for Solar
- True net metering: 1:1 retail credits through Delmarva Power
- State grants: Green Energy Program when funded
- Property tax exemption: Solar value excluded from assessment
- No sales tax: Delaware has no sales tax on anything
- Compact state: Easy to find experienced installers
State Incentives
Delaware Programs
- Green Energy Program: Grants when funding available (check DESEU)
- Property tax exemption: Solar value excluded from taxes
- Net metering: Full retail credit for excess generation
- No sales tax: Delaware has no sales tax statewide
Federal Options
- Purchased systems: No federal credit (25D ended 2025)
- PPA/Lease: Still benefits from 30% credit through 2027
Delmarva Power
Current Policy
- Net metering: True 1:1 retail rate credits
- System limit: Up to 25 kW for residential
- Credit rollover: Monthly credits carry forward
- Annual settlement: Excess credits may expire annually
One thing I appreciate about Delaware: the net metering actually makes sense. You get full retail value for what you send to the grid. None of this reduced export rate nonsense like some other states have moved to. For a small state, Delaware has kept solar-friendly policies in place. Just make sure you size your system appropriately—you do not want massive overproduction if annual credits expire.
Maximizing Value
| Strategy | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Right-sizing | Match system to annual usage |
| Battery storage | Capture excess for self-use |
| Time your usage | Use heavy appliances during solar hours |
Solar Costs
| System Size | Gross Cost | $/Watt Range |
|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $16,200-$18,600 | $2.70-$3.10 |
| 8 kW | $21,600-$24,800 | $2.70-$3.10 |
| 10 kW | $27,000-$31,000 | $2.70-$3.10 |
Mid-Atlantic Climate
Production Factors
- Peak sun hours: ~4.5 hours daily average
- Seasonal variation: Summer peaks, winter dips
- Humidity: Summer humidity can slightly reduce output
- Snow: Occasional—slides off panels quickly
Production Estimates
- Annual production: 1,300-1,400 kWh per kW installed
- 8 kW system: ~10,400-11,200 kWh/year
- Wilmington area: ~4.5 peak sun hours
- Southern Delaware: Slightly higher production
The Bottom Line
Delaware has solid solar policies for such a small state. True net metering, grants when available, and property tax exemption make solar economics reasonable. Not the sunniest state, but policy makes up for it. Check grant availability before committing—timing matters.
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