ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — As energy costs rise and natural disasters like Helene cause damage and power outages, Western North Carolina homeowners, businesses, and nonprofits are turning to solar energy to take control of their power. But going solar isn’t just about saving money—it’s about strengthening local communities, increasing energy independence, and protecting the region’s natural beauty.

Doug Ager, CEO and founder of Sugar Hollow Solar — one of the largest solar providers in WNC for the past 15 years — notes that the region’s shift toward solar is gaining momentum as more people recognize its long-term benefits.

“We’ve seen incredible momentum in solar adoption across Western North Carolina,” Ager says. “People are realizing that solar isn’t just an environmental choice –it’s a smart financial investment and a way to create resilience in the face of power outages and rising energy costs.”

Here are the top five reasons more Western North Carolinians are making the switch to solar.

1. Saving money on energy bills

Electricity rates in North Carolina have steadily increased, making solar a cost-effective solution for homeowners and businesses. By generating their own electricity, solar customers significantly reduce or even eliminate their monthly utility bills.

“With utility rates going up year after year, solar is a way to lock in low energy costs for the next 25+ years,” says Ager. “And with the 30% federal solar tax credit, it’s more affordable than ever.”

In addition to tax credits, North Carolina offers property tax exemptions for solar installations, and businesses and nonprofits may qualify for grants and low-interest loans to help finance their systems.

2. Energy independence & power outage protection

Western North Carolina’s mountainous terrain and frequent storms make power outages a common occurrence. For homeowners and businesses, a solar system with battery storage provides peace of mind by keeping critical appliances running when the grid goes down.

“Hurricane Helene and other recent storms showed us just how vulnerable our grid is,” says Ager. “That’s why we’re not only installing battery backup systems for homeowners — we’re also working to expand access to solar-powered backup solutions for community organizations through our Repower WNC Fund.”

As the region rebuilds, there is a strong commitment to a more sustainable future for both residents and the broader community. In response, Sugar Hollow Solar has introduced the Repower WNC Fund in partnership with the nonprofit Earthshine Nature Community Assistance Program (ENCAP). This initiative focuses on directing funds toward renewable energy projects that will support long-term recovery and resilience in Western North Carolina.

The goal is not only to restore what was lost but to build back greener and stronger, ensuring the community is better prepared for future challenges. Through this effort, clean energy solutions will be provided to individuals, businesses, and community spaces impacted by the hurricane, helping to create a brighter, more sustainable future for all.

3. Increasing home & business property value

Studies show that homes with solar panels sell faster and at higher prices than those without. With more buyers looking for energy-efficient homes, solar can be a major selling point.

For businesses, solar installations provide a competitive edge by reducing operating costs and demonstrating a commitment to sustainability. Dynamite Roasting Co. in Black Mountain is a prime example. In an effort to reduce energy costs and align with their environmentally conscious values, owners Josh Gibbs and Andy Gibbon made the decision to power their coffee roasting facility and café with solar energy.

“As a company, we’ve always looked for ways to reduce our environmental impact,” says Andy Gibbon. “Powering our business with renewable energy is just one more step we can take to do our part to ensure a sustainable future.”

The switch to solar has not only strengthened Dynamite Roasting’s commitment to sustainability but also resulted in real financial benefits. Before installing solar, their café’s monthly utility bill averaged around $200—a cost that has since dropped to $120, thanks to their solar system providing about 40% of their power needs.

Doug Ager, CEO of Sugar Hollow Solar, emphasizes that more small businesses across Western North Carolina are recognizing the advantages of going solar. “Small businesses and nonprofits in WNC are taking advantage of solar to lower expenses and reinvest those savings into their operations,” says Ager. “We’ve worked with coffee shops, breweries, schools, and community centers that see solar as a way to not only cut costs but also show leadership in sustainability.”

By investing in solar, businesses like Dynamite Roasting Co. are not only reducing their operational costs but also inspiring other local businesses to embrace renewable energy, proving that sustainability and financial savings can go hand in hand.

4. Supporting Local Nonprofits & Renewable Energy Initiatives

Choosing solar with local businesses like Sugar Hollow Solar means you will directly be supporting community-focused initiatives. “Our mission goes beyond installing solar panels,” says Ager. “We strive to make renewable energy accessible to everyone—especially nonprofits and families who might not otherwise afford it.”

Through partnerships with MountainTrue, Earthshine Nature Program, and other local organizations, Sugar Hollow Solar donates a portion of every referral to nonprofits, sponsors community events, and raises funds for their Repower WNC Fund.

5. Protecting Western North Carolina’s Environment

From the Blue Ridge Parkway to the Great Smoky Mountains, Western North Carolina is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. But climate change, deforestation, and pollution threaten these natural wonders.

By switching to solar, homeowners and businesses reduce their carbon footprint and help fight climate change. A standard 5-kilowatt solar system offsets about 7,000 pounds of CO₂ each year—equivalent to planting 120 trees annually.

“We live in one of the most beautiful regions in the world,” says Ager. “If we want to keep it that way for future generations, we need to embrace clean energy solutions that reduce our impact on the planet.”

The Future of Solar in WNC

With solar costs dropping and incentives at an all-time high, more Western North Carolinians are making the switch to clean energy. Sugar Hollow Solar, a certified B Corporation and member of the Amicus Solar Cooperative, is leading the charge with a commitment to sustainability, community partnerships, and long-term energy solutions.

“Solar isn’t just about technology—it’s about people, community, and resilience,” Ager says. “Whether it’s a homeowner wanting to lower their bills, a nonprofit needing backup power, or a business looking to invest in sustainability, we’re here to help make that transition easy and meaningful.”

Interested in Going Solar?

Contact Sugar Hollow Solar today for a free custom quote and see how solar can work for you.