Federal ITC 30% (tax credit)
State tax credit: Yes ($3,500)
Net metering (by utility)
There can be solar tax credits and incentives available at the federal, state and local levels. The calculator above will show you the value of all incentives your home is eligible for.
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 2021.
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.
Learn what solar incentives are available to South Carolina homeowners
See what South Carolina solar incentives you qualify for based on your utility company and city
Find out how much these incentives and/or South Carolina solar tax credits will reduce your cost to go solar and add batteries
The federal solar investment tax credit will have the biggest impact on the cost you will face to go solar in South Carolina
If you install your photovoltaic system before the end of 2032, the federal tax credit is 30% of the cost of your solar panel system. This is 30% 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 30% = $6,000.
The federal tax credit falls to 26% starting in 2033.
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).
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 6 kW. 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 6 kW.
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 2021 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!
Showing data for:
Prices based on a 10.1kW system, after 30% federal tax credit
51 solar companies in South Carolina provide pricing on SolarReviews. Here are the best rated companies near you.
4.89 589 Reviews
Jorge G, 1 week ago
I had Solar Bear install new panels in two houses about three years ago. One set for myself and one for my in-laws. Since installation, it has been a growing regret. The biggest issue is the quality and reliability of their equipment (mostly the converter). In both houses, at least twice a year, the system goes down. As a result, it takes at least two weeks to get anyone out here to repair them, then to do the whole electric bill reimbursement from the weeks of being down, which is not even a guarantee as Solar Bear has been stingy even with this. This is a yearly routine, 2-3 times a year. I may have paid more into my electricity before the panels, but had a lot more reliability and consistency from the electric company. I have been noticing that the majority of these reviews in multiple sites are from recent installations which are less likely to have issues. Wait a couple of months and then the issues begin. I support green energy, but the solar industry needs more consistent equipment and an infrastructure that can reliably maintain existing installations.
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Jorge G, 1 week ago
I had Solar Bear install new panels in two houses about three years ago. One set for myself and one for my in-laws. Since installation, it has been a growing regret. The biggest issue is the quality and reliability of their equipment (mostly the converter). In both houses, at least twice a year, the system goes down. As a result, it takes at least two weeks to get anyone out here to repair them, then to do the whole electric bill reimbursement from the weeks of being down, which is not even a guarantee as Solar Bear has been stingy even with this. This is a yearly routine, 2-3 times a year. I may have paid more into my electricity before the panels, but had a lot more reliability and consistency from the electric company. I have been noticing that the majority of these reviews in multiple sites are from recent installations which are less likely to have issues. Wait a couple of months and then the issues begin. I support green energy, but the solar industry needs more consistent equipment and an infrastructure that can reliably maintain existing installations.
4.82 457 Reviews
Experienced Buyer, 3 days ago
EHS was contracted to do my roof as well as solar and main panel upgrade. All was done in a timely fashion on their end, it was a small delay with the county for inspection but that is out of their control. The inspection passed first time and my system is up and producing! I would definitely recommend them to all friends and family. Trusted with the BBB and backed by good reviews and it shows. Back office was very good at communicating throughout the process!!!
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Average cost (5kW system)
$17,000 ($3.40 per watt)
Experienced Buyer, 3 days ago
EHS was contracted to do my roof as well as solar and main panel upgrade. All was done in a timely fashion on their end, it was a small delay with the county for inspection but that is out of their control. The inspection passed first time and my system is up and producing! I would definitely recommend them to all friends and family. Trusted with the BBB and backed by good reviews and it shows. Back office was very good at communicating throughout the process!!!
4.80 150 Reviews
Alex, 3 days ago
Sunny Energy LLC is the absolute best solar company out there! From their sales team, Sean Turgeon, to the installation team, inspection team, design team, to the account management team, overseen by Michael McCaffrey, everyone is absolutely amazing and goes above and beyond to help ensure all questions are answered and that you're aware of every step taking place. I was totally against solar, and now am reaping the benefits of earning monthly APS credits. Please give this company a chance to provide a consult for you and I promise you won't regret it.
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Average cost (5kW system)
$13,750 ($2.75 per watt)
Alex, 3 days ago
Sunny Energy LLC is the absolute best solar company out there! From their sales team, Sean Turgeon, to the installation team, inspection team, design team, to the account management team, overseen by Michael McCaffrey, everyone is absolutely amazing and goes above and beyond to help ensure all questions are answered and that you're aware of every step taking place. I was totally against solar, and now am reaping the benefits of earning monthly APS credits. Please give this company a chance to provide a consult for you and I promise you won't regret it.
4.79 183 Reviews
Mike, over 1 month
Last month we completed the install of solar panels on our new house. We started the process of solar with a larger nationwide company, but after talking with the Renu sales rep, we canceled that contract and have had no regrets. Not only were they more affordable, but they were informative, educating us that not every solar panel and solar panel set-up is created equal. After a little online research, we were able to quickly verify that the panels, converters, etc that Renu was offering were top of the line. Whereas the other company... let's just say I had difficulty finding any information on the "off-brand" panels they said they'd be installing. Communication throughout the entire process was prompt, professional, and courteous. We just got our first billing statement after the install, and we produced more energy than we used! I can't tell you how good that feels.
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Mike, over 1 month
Last month we completed the install of solar panels on our new house. We started the process of solar with a larger nationwide company, but after talking with the Renu sales rep, we canceled that contract and have had no regrets. Not only were they more affordable, but they were informative, educating us that not every solar panel and solar panel set-up is created equal. After a little online research, we were able to quickly verify that the panels, converters, etc that Renu was offering were top of the line. Whereas the other company... let's just say I had difficulty finding any information on the "off-brand" panels they said they'd be installing. Communication throughout the entire process was prompt, professional, and courteous. We just got our first billing statement after the install, and we produced more energy than we used! I can't tell you how good that feels.
4.68 83 Reviews
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.
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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.
4.62 103 Reviews
paul johann, over 1 month
First time ever leaving a bad review. Purchase and set up was painless. Having problems in May. Took them several months to respond and come out and when they did come out they acknowledged the problem and would fix it. May of last year and still not fixed. They will not return my calls. Service and response is more important then just selling a product. Customer service and living up to obligations is what makes a product and company outstanding. So if you buy from them and have an issue you are on your own. Forget the 10 year warranty they promise
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Average cost (5kW system)
$15,500 ($3.10 per watt)
paul johann, over 1 month
First time ever leaving a bad review. Purchase and set up was painless. Having problems in May. Took them several months to respond and come out and when they did come out they acknowledged the problem and would fix it. May of last year and still not fixed. They will not return my calls. Service and response is more important then just selling a product. Customer service and living up to obligations is what makes a product and company outstanding. So if you buy from them and have an issue you are on your own. Forget the 10 year warranty they promise
4.61 16 Reviews
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!!!
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Average cost (5kW system)
$16,750 ($3.35 per watt)
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!!!
4.60 32 Reviews
Nit, 2 weeks ago
I was skeptical about buying into Solar for residential and Nick was very patient and helpful with answering all the questions I had and was transparent about the whole process. For people getting into Solar, I recommend you do your own research and dont shy asking questions and good companies like SCSP Solar would answer all your questions without reservations. Its been 2 months since I had Solar and so far I am satisfied with the production. Given i had my solar installed towards end of summer, I am surely expecting an increase in production in the summers. No customer is obliged to purchase solar from any given company. but do get an appointment with SCSP solar and get insight on what Solar grid can offer you. Cheers!
Read more
Nit, 2 weeks ago
I was skeptical about buying into Solar for residential and Nick was very patient and helpful with answering all the questions I had and was transparent about the whole process. For people getting into Solar, I recommend you do your own research and dont shy asking questions and good companies like SCSP Solar would answer all your questions without reservations. Its been 2 months since I had Solar and so far I am satisfied with the production. Given i had my solar installed towards end of summer, I am surely expecting an increase in production in the summers. No customer is obliged to purchase solar from any given company. but do get an appointment with SCSP solar and get insight on what Solar grid can offer you. Cheers!
4.56 20 Reviews
Anonymous, over 1 month
I got a small residential rooftop solar system installed by Alder and they were great. In the sales process, they were very professional and attentive to any questions I had. Communication was good while the system was getting permitted and while we scheduled our installation. The installation went smoothly and the crew was friendly. I got the system turned on quickly after installation and I am now producing my own power and it feels great.
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Anonymous, over 1 month
I got a small residential rooftop solar system installed by Alder and they were great. In the sales process, they were very professional and attentive to any questions I had. Communication was good while the system was getting permitted and while we scheduled our installation. The installation went smoothly and the crew was friendly. I got the system turned on quickly after installation and I am now producing my own power and it feels great.
4.49 55 Reviews
Solar45224, over 1 month
I had a 19 panel system installed last week. I’m overall very satisfied with SIF on pricing, quality of equipment, and quality of install. The only area that I wish was a little better is their communication. During my 3 month install process, I called the office 3 times. I never had anyone answer the phone when I called, but they did call me or text me back within 24 hours. Ultimately, no major issue, but hope they improve this going forward. If/when I move, I would be happy to have SIF install a system on my next home.
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Solar45224, over 1 month
I had a 19 panel system installed last week. I’m overall very satisfied with SIF on pricing, quality of equipment, and quality of install. The only area that I wish was a little better is their communication. During my 3 month install process, I called the office 3 times. I never had anyone answer the phone when I called, but they did call me or text me back within 24 hours. Ultimately, no major issue, but hope they improve this going forward. If/when I move, I would be happy to have SIF install a system on my next home.
For more information about going solar near where you live, check out the following resources:
Santee Cooper Renewable Energy Resource Loans - Current terms:1.25% interest, maximum loan amount $40,000, max term 10 years.