Duke Energy maintains a list of approved contractors for their incentive programs. These contractors are called Trade Allies.
For PowerPair (solar and battery storage), Trade Ally status is required. The installation must be performed by a Duke Energy-approved Trade Ally or the application will be rejected, regardless of whether the equipment qualifies. That still does not guarantee an incentive: as of June 2026, Duke Energy Progress capacity is exhausted and Duke Energy Carolinas is at or near its cap.
For the Charger Prep Credit (EV charger electrical prep), Trade Ally status is not required. Residential customers can use any licensed, insured electrician and submit the paperwork themselves for a bill credit. Duke Energy also offers a contractor-credit option where a registered contractor can apply on your behalf, but it isn’t mandatory.
Trade Ally status means the contractor has registered with Duke Energy and agreed to the program’s terms. It doesn’t mean Duke Energy endorses the quality of their work.
How to verify your installer is a Duke Energy Trade Ally
Before booking any installer for a job where you plan to claim a Duke Energy incentive, confirm they’re a Trade Ally for that specific program. Ask directly: “Are you a Duke Energy Trade Ally for PowerPair?” or “Are you registered for the Charger Prep Credit?” For PowerPair, also ask whether Duke has confirmed a reservation or remaining application path for your address. A contractor who does this work regularly will know immediately. If they have to check, that’s reasonable. If they’re not familiar with the question, find a different contractor.
Common questions
- How do I find a Duke Energy Trade Ally installer in North Carolina?
- Duke Energy maintains a searchable Trade Ally directory on their website. You can filter by program (PowerPair, EV charger, etc.) and by location. For Raleigh, you're in Duke Energy Progress territory. For Charlotte, you're in Duke Energy Carolinas. The programs and Trade Ally lists are separate, so confirm your installer is registered for the specific program you're claiming.
- Is a Trade Ally required for the Duke Energy PowerPair program in NC?
- Yes. PowerPair requires a Duke Energy-approved Trade Ally for the qualifying solar-plus-battery installation. But Trade Ally status is not enough by itself: PowerPair capacity is effectively full in 2026, with Duke Energy Progress exhausted and Duke Energy Carolinas at or near its cap. Do not assume the project can receive the incentive unless Duke confirms a reservation or remaining application path.
- Does Trade Ally status mean Duke Energy endorses the contractor's work quality?
- No. Trade Ally status means the contractor has registered with Duke Energy and agreed to the program's terms. It doesn't represent an endorsement of their work quality or customer service. Check reviews, verify their NC electrical or contractor license, and ask for references from local jobs before hiring.