Summary of South Carolina solar incentives 2020
Palmetto State lawmakers passed a monumental solar bill in 2019, which lifted the state’s net metering cap and protected the right of homeowners to generate and sell their own electricity! Read on to find out how much you can save with solar in 2020.
There are great incentives for going solar in South Carolina, including both state and federal tax credits, which combined can save you up to half the cost of installing solar panels.
On this page, you can:
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Learn what solar incentives are available to South Carolina homeowners
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See what South Carolina solar incentives you qualify for based on your utility company and city
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Find out how much these incentives and/or South Carolina solar tax credits will reduce your cost to go solar and add batteries
Federal solar investment tax credit
The federal solar investment tax credit will have the biggest impact on the cost you will face to go solar in South Carolina
This perk is commonly known as the ITC, short for “Investment Tax Credit”. If you install your photovoltaic system in 2020, the federal tax credit is 26% of the cost of your solar panel system. This is 26% off the entire cost of the system including equipment, labor and permitting.
Example: If your solar energy system costs $20,000, your federal solar tax credit would be $20,000 x 26% = $5,200.
The federal tax credit falls to 22% in 2021. Unless new legislation is introduced in Washington D.C., this program will be gone in 2022.
Net energy metering in South Carolina
With net metering in some states, you get full retail rate credit for the amount of electricity you send back into the grid with your solar panels.
Net Metering requires your utility to monitor how much energy your solar power system produces and how much energy you actually consume, and make sure you get credit for the surplus.
Full retail residential net metering is good for home solar systems up to 20 kW in capacity. In South Carolina, utilities must roll over your monthly excess generation to the next month and pay you for your annual excess at the end of the year.
There is no cap on net metering until June, 2021, so it’s a good idea to go solar until then to make sure you’re entitled to all your credits when you generate more solar than you use during the middle of the day with a home solar system here in South Carolina.
Utilities are in the process of reviewing and proposing a successor program to net metering. It’s most probably not going to be as favorable to homeowners as what’s in place now.
Duke Energy has also begun a fast track program for smaller solar systems like you’d install on your home to be connected to the grid. It has a $500 application fee, and requires an external disconnect (which is probably unnecessary).
South Carolina solar rebates
While South Carolina does not have a dedicated state rebate for solar panel installation, some manufacturers like LG offer their own solar rebates. These programs are usually time sensitive. For example, LG offers a $600 solar rebate on their equipment, which your installer can help you redeem over the next year.
If you’re lucky enough to be a Santee Cooper power customer, you can qualify for a generous solar energy rebate. You can get $600 per kilowatt (kW) up to a maximum of 6kW. So, for an average sized 6kW system, you can get $3,600 of your installation cost back right away.
Note: In the unlikely event there are less than 210 participants in this program for 2020, you can receive $1,200 per kW up to 6kW.
South carolina solar tax credit
The state legislature has scored a slam dunk with South Carolina’s Solar Energy Tax Credit. When you install a residential solar power system here, you’re entitled to claim a state tax credit of 25% of the purchase and installation costs. That’s a whole lot of taxes you won’t be paying in April.
The maximum credit that can be applied in a single tax year is $3,500 or 50% of your state tax liability, whichever is less. Unused credit may be carried forward for 10 years. Score for South Carolina!
Here's an example of how the South Carolina tax credit works: Say you're a married couple making $75,000/yr. Your income tax for 2020 will be $3,271, and half of that is $1,636. Your 5-kW solar system costs $16,250, meaning you're eligible for a state tax credit of $4,063 (25% of the cost). You take the max in year 1, $1,636, and assuming your income is roughly the same in year 2, another $1,636 in year 2. That leaves you with an unused tax credit of $791 that you can take in year 3.
Don't forget: All solar installations are eligible for a tax credit from the Feds as well. There's no cap on the federal tax credit and fortunately for South Carolina, having no state rebate to deduct means a larger tax credit coming your way. The two tax credits combined can wipe out 55% of the costs to install solar in just a few short years. Wow!
Cost of solar panels in your part of South Carolina after all applicable solar incentives
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Prices based on a 10.1kW system, after 26% federal tax credit
Solar prices near you
Payback period
7.4-9.1 years
Net profit (savings less system cost)
$40,419-$49,401
Average size system installed in SC in 2020
10.1kW
Solar panel cost calculator
Best 10 solar companies in South Carolina
35 solar companies in South Carolina provide pricing on SolarReviews. Here are the best rated companies near you.
4.96 284 Reviews
Latest review
Mary Steiner, 1 week ago
We were very impressed by the level of service that EHS has displayed throughout the course of our project. The install crew was professional, quick, and efficient. We highly recommend EHS for solar.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$17,000 ($3.40 per watt)
Latest review
Mary Steiner, 1 week ago
We were very impressed by the level of service that EHS has displayed throughout the course of our project. The install crew was professional, quick, and efficient. We highly recommend EHS for solar.
4.77 33 Reviews
Latest review
Tayco Electric & Solar - Excelle, over 1 month
We recently chose to go with SunPower for their superior workmanship in their panels over all of their competitors. TayCo Electric & Solar did the installation. They were efficient, professional, and did a remarkable job. Even the inspector was impressed on the neatness of the installation. And Whitney was awesome to work with, keeping us apprised of where we were during the process at all times. I would highly recommend these 2 partners together for your solar needs!
Read more
Latest review
Tayco Electric & Solar - Excelle, over 1 month
We recently chose to go with SunPower for their superior workmanship in their panels over all of their competitors. TayCo Electric & Solar did the installation. They were efficient, professional, and did a remarkable job. Even the inspector was impressed on the neatness of the installation. And Whitney was awesome to work with, keeping us apprised of where we were during the process at all times. I would highly recommend these 2 partners together for your solar needs!
4.75 115 Reviews
Latest review
Steve Southwick, 6 days ago
Fantastic group to work with! From start to finish, they delivered everything they promised. No pushy sales techniques, knowledgeable on site staff, incredibly friendly and professional install crew (who are employees of Renu and not contracted out), and they guided me through the whole process in a very clear and up front manner. All around couldn't be happier with the service I received!
Read more
Latest review
Steve Southwick, 6 days ago
Fantastic group to work with! From start to finish, they delivered everything they promised. No pushy sales techniques, knowledgeable on site staff, incredibly friendly and professional install crew (who are employees of Renu and not contracted out), and they guided me through the whole process in a very clear and up front manner. All around couldn't be happier with the service I received!
4.75 102 Reviews
Latest review
Lancaster, over 1 month
Detailed explanation of types of inverters.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$15,500 ($3.10 per watt)
Latest review
Lancaster, over 1 month
Detailed explanation of types of inverters.
4.71 35 Reviews
Latest review
Paul, over 1 month
From my first contact with Tom Ferraro through flipping the switch to solar, I can't imagine a better experience. Tom and my project manager made sure that I was kept informed of the schedule and progress every step of the way. They answered all my questions and responded promptly to any concern. I highly recommend Carolina Energy Conservation for anyone who is considering going solar.
Read more
Latest review
Paul, over 1 month
From my first contact with Tom Ferraro through flipping the switch to solar, I can't imagine a better experience. Tom and my project manager made sure that I was kept informed of the schedule and progress every step of the way. They answered all my questions and responded promptly to any concern. I highly recommend Carolina Energy Conservation for anyone who is considering going solar.
4.68 83 Reviews
Latest review
Anonymous, over 1 month
What a FANTASTIC company!<br />When we decided to go with Sunstore Solar (out of 5) we were hoping we would not be let down once they had a signed contract and deposit. Sunstore has more than exceeded our expectations. We did not have to worry about any paper work dealing with Blue Ridge Electric Co-op, tax forms or county regulations. Sunstore did not pressure us into more wattage than we were looking for (50% offset) or a ground mounted system. Sunstore LISTENED to what we wanted and why. They were always able to answer our questions and continue to do so. <br /><br />Ashley Edwards (our sales rep) is extremely knowledgeable. He heard our concerns/wants assuring our energy needs were met with no problems or delays. He took the time to talk instead of just trying to make a sale. Ashley gave us several options, explained what was required for each and let us decide, not right then but a couple of weeks later.<br /><br />The installation crew were outstanding and very professional. They showed us during the install on site, what they were planning to do and why. Pre-Pictures are great but before someone does work on your roof it was nice to have that "wait a moment" minute and have it shown again. <br /> <br />We have very, very good looking aesthetic system (pictures online), no gaps from vent pipes and no electrical piping running all over the roof.<br /><br />Sunstore made the entire process exciting and enjoyable.<br />Use Sunstore for your solar needs, you will not regret it.
Read more
Latest review
Anonymous, over 1 month
What a FANTASTIC company!<br />When we decided to go with Sunstore Solar (out of 5) we were hoping we would not be let down once they had a signed contract and deposit. Sunstore has more than exceeded our expectations. We did not have to worry about any paper work dealing with Blue Ridge Electric Co-op, tax forms or county regulations. Sunstore did not pressure us into more wattage than we were looking for (50% offset) or a ground mounted system. Sunstore LISTENED to what we wanted and why. They were always able to answer our questions and continue to do so. <br /><br />Ashley Edwards (our sales rep) is extremely knowledgeable. He heard our concerns/wants assuring our energy needs were met with no problems or delays. He took the time to talk instead of just trying to make a sale. Ashley gave us several options, explained what was required for each and let us decide, not right then but a couple of weeks later.<br /><br />The installation crew were outstanding and very professional. They showed us during the install on site, what they were planning to do and why. Pre-Pictures are great but before someone does work on your roof it was nice to have that "wait a moment" minute and have it shown again. <br /> <br />We have very, very good looking aesthetic system (pictures online), no gaps from vent pipes and no electrical piping running all over the roof.<br /><br />Sunstore made the entire process exciting and enjoyable.<br />Use Sunstore for your solar needs, you will not regret it.
4.63 948 Reviews
Latest review
Brett Huebner, 4 hours ago
From the very first encounter, Blue Raven is professional and diligent. They answered all my questions and quickly came up with a solution that covers all my power usage. They worked with my HOA for rapid approval. The installation team was fantastic, arrived exactly when they said and all work and electrical was done in 1 day. The team worked efficiently and complete professionals all day even walking me through the new functionality and steps at the end. This is the kind of service we should always get out of companies and not be surprised but it is. I highly recommend this team.
Read more
Latest review
Brett Huebner, 4 hours ago
From the very first encounter, Blue Raven is professional and diligent. They answered all my questions and quickly came up with a solution that covers all my power usage. They worked with my HOA for rapid approval. The installation team was fantastic, arrived exactly when they said and all work and electrical was done in 1 day. The team worked efficiently and complete professionals all day even walking me through the new functionality and steps at the end. This is the kind of service we should always get out of companies and not be surprised but it is. I highly recommend this team.
4.58 15 Reviews
Latest review
Mark H, over 1 month
Bill and Daniel are amazing! Bill helped us design a solar unit for our home and he made it so easy for us to understand the entire process from solar production, costs, and installation. He was very transparent through all aspects of the project and had immediate answers to our questions. His team communicated with my HOA and Dominion Energy so we didn’t have to lift a finger through the entire process. The installation team was respectful to our home and were efficient with their time. Right now, we have $0 electric bills and we couldn’t be happier with our system! Thank you Bill and Daniel for providing such a high level of service and following through with all that you offer. I would defiantly recommend reaching out to Super Green Solutions if you are interested in getting solar…Now is the time!!!
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$16,750 ($3.35 per watt)
Latest review
Mark H, over 1 month
Bill and Daniel are amazing! Bill helped us design a solar unit for our home and he made it so easy for us to understand the entire process from solar production, costs, and installation. He was very transparent through all aspects of the project and had immediate answers to our questions. His team communicated with my HOA and Dominion Energy so we didn’t have to lift a finger through the entire process. The installation team was respectful to our home and were efficient with their time. Right now, we have $0 electric bills and we couldn’t be happier with our system! Thank you Bill and Daniel for providing such a high level of service and following through with all that you offer. I would defiantly recommend reaching out to Super Green Solutions if you are interested in getting solar…Now is the time!!!
4.58 16 Reviews
Latest review
Randy S, over 1 month
I have never been so pleased from the service I received. They walked us through each step and what date it would happen. They made promises that I didn't think they would be able to keep, but they did!!! They system has performed just as they said it would. My electric bill went from $300 a month to $20 a month. I can't wait till we start getting sunny days. I could probably go on more about how pleased I am with South Carolina Solar. If your thinking about solar... Go with South Carolina Solar!!!
Read more
Latest review
Randy S, over 1 month
I have never been so pleased from the service I received. They walked us through each step and what date it would happen. They made promises that I didn't think they would be able to keep, but they did!!! They system has performed just as they said it would. My electric bill went from $300 a month to $20 a month. I can't wait till we start getting sunny days. I could probably go on more about how pleased I am with South Carolina Solar. If your thinking about solar... Go with South Carolina Solar!!!
4.58 14 Reviews
Latest review
Brian H, over 1 month
I started my solar search with an AWFUL experience through a company my electric provider introduced me to. After having a discussion with the sales team at RSRV power it was a complete 180. Our sales rep Nick was incredibly professional and no pressure. He spent the lion share of his time boiling down the complex topic into something we could digest to make an educated decision. While it is nice to have a great sales experience, it is rare that this translate to the service and install. This was NOT the case with RSRV, from the support staff on the permitting to the team performing the install RSRV was professional, punctual, and a pleasure to work with. Would recommend them to anyone and wish more local companies had the post sale service experience RSRV offers.
Read more
Latest review
Brian H, over 1 month
I started my solar search with an AWFUL experience through a company my electric provider introduced me to. After having a discussion with the sales team at RSRV power it was a complete 180. Our sales rep Nick was incredibly professional and no pressure. He spent the lion share of his time boiling down the complex topic into something we could digest to make an educated decision. While it is nice to have a great sales experience, it is rare that this translate to the service and install. This was NOT the case with RSRV, from the support staff on the permitting to the team performing the install RSRV was professional, punctual, and a pleasure to work with. Would recommend them to anyone and wish more local companies had the post sale service experience RSRV offers.
Solar guides for your South Carolina city
For more information about going solar near where you live, check out the following resources:
Useful links
Santee Cooper Renewable Energy Resource Loans - Current terms:1.25% interest, maximum loan amount $40,000, max term 10 years.
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