Solar Panels in South Carolina2026 Cost Guide & Incentives
Average cost, state incentives, payback estimates, and how to find certified installers in South Carolina.
$16,000–$27,000
Avg system cost
$11,200–$18,900
After 30% ITC
5 hrs/day
Peak sun hours
$0.138/kWh
Avg rate
Is Solar Worth It in South Carolina?
Based on a home with a $150/month electric bill in South Carolina
Est. system size
6.6 kW
Gross cost
$19,068
Federal tax credit
−$5,721
State credit
−$4,767
Year-1 savings
$1,800
20-year savings
$45,911
Estimated payback: 4.8 years — then 15 years of free electricity.
* Estimates assume $2.90/W installed, 92% solar offset, and 3% annual electricity rate inflation. Get an installer quote to confirm your actual savings.
South Carolina Solar Incentives & Policies
Federal
Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30%
of total system cost — off your federal tax bill
Available through 2032
South Carolina State
South Carolina Solar Tax Credit
25%
Up to $35,000 off your state income taxes
Additional South Carolina Solar Policies
Net Metering: Available — excess energy credited to your bill
Property Tax Exemption: Solar system value exempt from property taxes
Sales Tax Exemption: Sales tax applies to solar equipment purchase
Solar Installation Cost in South Carolina by System Size
| System size | Gross cost | After 30% ITC | Year-1 savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $12,272,800 | $8,555,960 | $1,158,510/yr |
| 7 kW | $17,181,920 | $11,992,344 | $1,621,914/yr |
| 9 kW | $22,091,040 | $15,428,728 | $2,085,318/yr |
| 12 kW | $29,454,720 | $20,583,304 | $2,780,424/yr |
* Costs based on $2.90/W national average. South Carolina installer pricing may vary ±15%.
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Frequently Asked Questions — Solar in South Carolina
How much do solar panels cost in South Carolina?
Solar installation in South Carolina typically costs $16,000–$27,000 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit and South Carolina's 25% state credit, most homeowners pay $11,200–$18,900 net.
Is solar worth it in South Carolina?
Yes — South Carolina homeowners benefit from 5 average peak sun hours per day. The 30% federal ITC combined with 25% state tax credit — one of the best in the southeast make the financial case strong for most homeowners.
What state incentives are available for solar in South Carolina?
25% state tax credit — one of the best in the Southeast. On top of state incentives, all South Carolina homeowners qualify for the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Your solar system is also exempt from property tax assessment.
How long is the payback period for solar in South Carolina?
Based on South Carolina's average electricity rate of $0.138/kWh and 5 peak sun hours, most homeowners see payback in 4.8–7 years. Systems then produce free electricity for 15–20+ more years.
Does South Carolina have net metering?
Yes — South Carolina has a net metering policy that credits your utility bill for excess electricity your system sends back to the grid. This significantly improves your ROI.