South CarolinaSolar Panel Costs & Savings
South Carolina averages 4.8 hrs of peak sun per day with an average payback period of 9 years. Homeowners can save $33,200 over 20 years.
Peak Sun Hours
4.8 hrs
per day
6kW System Cost
$17,100
before incentives
Payback Period
9 yrs
average
20-Year Savings
$33,200
estimated
Solar Cost Breakdown in South Carolina
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| 6kW System Cost ($2.85/W) | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,130 |
| State Tax Credit (25%) | -$4,275 |
| Net Cost | $7,695 |
Net Metering
Full Net Metering
Electricity Rate
14.43¢/kWh
Avg Monthly Bill
$155/mo
Solar Incentives in South Carolina
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The federal ITC allows homeowners to deduct 30% of solar installation costs from federal taxes. Available for systems installed through 2032, stepping down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
South Carolina Solar Tax Credit
South Carolina offers a 25% state tax credit for solar energy systems, one of the highest in the nation.
Solar Potential by ZIP Code in South Carolina
| ZIP | City | Sun Hours | Annual Savings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 29401 | Charleston | 5.0 hrs | $1,298 | 9.2 yrs |
| 29901 | Beaufort | 5.0 hrs | $1,298 | 9.2 yrs |
| 29201 | Columbia | 4.9 hrs | $1,273 | 9.4 yrs |
| 29801 | Aiken | 4.9 hrs | $1,273 | 9.4 yrs |
| 29501 | Florence | 4.9 hrs | $1,273 | 9.4 yrs |
| 29001 | Alcolu | 4.8 hrs | $1,247 | 9.6 yrs |
| 29101 | McBee | 4.8 hrs | $1,247 | 9.6 yrs |
| 29601 | Greenville | 4.7 hrs | $1,221 | 9.8 yrs |
| 29301 | Spartanburg | 4.7 hrs | $1,221 | 9.8 yrs |
| 29701 | Clover | 4.7 hrs | $1,221 | 9.8 yrs |
Compare With Other States
More Data for South Carolina
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in South Carolina?
A typical 6kW solar system in South Carolina costs approximately $17,100 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit ($5,130) and state incentives, the net cost is approximately $7,695.
How long does solar take to pay for itself in South Carolina?
The average solar payback period in South Carolina is 9 years, faster than the national average of 9.4 years. After payback, homeowners enjoy free electricity for the remaining system life.
Does South Carolina have net metering?
South Carolina has full net metering. Homeowners receive full retail rate credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid.
How much sun does South Carolina get for solar?
South Carolina averages 4.8 peak sun hours per day, which is 0.3 hours above the national average. A 6kW system produces approximately 10,512 kWh per year.
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Data verified March 2026 · Source: NREL, DSIRE, EIA