South Carolina

EV Charging in South Carolina -

Solar Power in South Carolina -

 North Carolina in 2026 continues to actively support commercial EV charging station projects as part of a broader strategic push to modernize transportation infrastructure, reduce emissions, and prepare for rapidly growing electric vehicle adoption. A centerpiece of this effort is the state’s implementation of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program, funded by the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. North Carolina has been allocated approximately $109 million through NEVI to build out a statewide EV charging network over several years, with reimbursements covering up to 80 % of the costs for private companies to design, install, operate, and maintain EV charging stations, primarily along federally designated alternative fuel corridors such as I‑40, I‑85, and I‑95. To date, the N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has issued multiple requests for proposals (RFPs) and awarded contracts (e.g., nearly $6 million for nine stations in key locations) as part of Phase 1 of the build‑out, focusing on DC fast chargers capable of 20‑minute charges to fill coverage gaps along major highways. The program anticipates further RFPs into 2026 to expand both corridor and community‑focused infrastructure.

 North Carolina’s stance also includes targeted funding and grant opportunities to expand access beyond interstates and into local communities and rural areas. The state’s Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has leveraged other funding sources, like the Volkswagen Settlement, to award grants (nearly $2 million in 2025 alone) supporting 25 new DC fast charging ports at diverse public sites including parks, town centers, and shopping centers, with a focus on emissions reduction and equitable access. These investments are aimed at addressing underserved areas and contributing measurable environmental benefits by preventing hundreds of tons of greenhouse gases and nitrogen oxides from entering the atmosphere. The state has also seen federal grant awards—such as $5 million to deploy EV chargers at community colleges and underserved neighborhoods—which complement NEVI funding and signal ongoing support for commercial and public charging infrastructure development.

 Beyond direct funding initiatives, partnerships with utilities and the private sector reflect North Carolina’s supportive policy climate for EV charging investment. For example, major energy provider **Duke Energy has proposed a $76 million electric transportation program before the North Carolina Utilities Commission aimed at significantly expanding public and commercial charging networks across the state, including more than 800 public charging stations and incentives for business and fleet electrification—pending regulatory approval. At the federal level, tax incentives such as the 30C tax credit (up to $100,000 per port) remain available to commercial developers until mid‑2026, offering further financial support for private investment in charging infrastructure. Collectively, these programs illustrate a multi‑layered approach where state policy, federal funding, and utility proposals converge to reduce barriers for commercial EV charging projects and accelerate deployment throughout North Carolina in 2026.

 North Carolina in 2026 continues to be a major player in commercial solar development. The state ranks among the top five in total installed solar capacity, with nearly 6,846 MW across more than 40,000 acres. Many large projects are located on agricultural land, often incorporating agrivoltaics or pollinator-friendly designs to balance energy production with farming. The state also requires decommissioning plans and financial assurances for utility-scale projects larger than 2 MW, reflecting growing attention to environmental and land-use impacts.

 Legislative changes have introduced uncertainty for developers. The 2025 proposal of House Bill 729, known as the “Farmland Protection Act,” aims to reduce tax incentives and impose stricter siting rules. Large projects could face lower property tax abatements and restrictions on farmland use. Supporters of these measures cite farmland preservation, while solar advocates warn it could slow deployment and weaken North Carolina’s leadership in clean energy.

 On the financial side, federal and state incentives still support commercial solar. The 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC) remains available for qualifying projects, and federal MACRS depreciation can improve economics. North Carolina’s Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard (CEPS) continues to push utilities toward clean energy, supporting demand for commercial installations. Net metering rules also allow businesses to offset energy costs, making solar more attractive despite regulatory changes.