Cost of Solar Panels In South Carolina
Updated October 17, 2023

Fortunately for SC homeowners, the cost of solar panels in South Carolina has decreased more than 54% in the past decade. Blessed with consistent sunshine and numerous financial incentives, over 300,000+ homes and businesses in South Carolina have made the switch to solar energy.
But how much do solar panels cost in South Carolina? Read our detailed cost breakdown below, or quickly request a personalized solar estimate for your residence!
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How Much Do Solar Panels Cost In South Carolina?
The latest solar industry data shows that the average cost of solar panels in South Carolina ranges from $9,000 to $14,000, depending on the size of your home and your energy needs. Given that the average home size in South Carolina is approximately 2,100 sq ft., the average cost of solar panels in South Carolina is around $13,789 prior to taking advantage of South Carolina solar incentives.
Here’s a more complete breakdown of the cost of solar panels in SC, by home size.
Home Size (sq ft) |
System Size |
Average Costs |
---|---|---|
1,500 - 1,750 | 3 kW | $9,304 |
1,750 - 2,000 | 4 kW | $11,655 |
2,000 - 2,300 | 5 kW | $13,789 |
2,300 - 2,500 | 6 kW | $16,449 |
2,500 - 2,800 | 7 kW | $19,108 |
2,800 - 3,000 | 8 kW | $21,412 |
** It's important to note that these costs DO NOT include the thousands you can save by utilizing your South Carolina Solar Incentives. See which solar financial incentives you qualify for by entering your zip code below!
Find out if you qualify for solar savings programs!
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Factors That Influence The Costs of Solar in South Carolina
Choosing to go solar in South Carolina is an intelligent decision for many homeowners, both for the monthly energy bill savings and the environmental advantages. The expenses associated with solar panel installation in South Carolina hinge on several variables. These encompass your home's energy consumption, the solar panel model you select, and any supplementary choices like solar batteries or extra panels.
While the initial prices might fluctuate, homeowners in South Carolina can anticipate substantial savings. Many solar users report reductions of 40% to 60% on their electricity bills. Additionally, in South Carolina, it's common for solar panels to recoup their costs in less than 10 years!
Installation & Labor Costs
The financial commitments for solar installation in South Carolina aren't limited to just the panels. It's vital to factor in expenses related to the installation procedure, necessary permits, and inspections to guarantee a proper setup. Typically, these charges represent 10% to 20% of the total solar investment.
Great news for South Carolinians! There are strategies to decrease the upfront solar costs. Explore our guide on obtaining free solar panel installations in South Carolina!
Equipment Costs
Let's delve into the specifics of South Carolina's solar equipment costs. An estimated 60-70% of your entire expenditure is dedicated to primary equipment: the solar panels themselves, inverters, and mounting structures. These components are crucial for converting sunlight into renewable energy for your home's prolonged use.
Solar Taxes in South Carolina
When transitioning to solar in South Carolina, it's important to consider taxes, encompassing sales taxes and potential property tax adjustments due to the increased home valuation. However, South Carolina offers property tax exemption for solar panels. Input your zip code below to discover which solar incentives are available in your area!
Find out if you qualify for solar savings programs!
Do I Qualify?
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How to Reduce The Costs of Solar Panels in South Carolina
South Carolina has many opportunities for those considering a shift to solar energy. With South Carolina's dedication to expanding renewable sources, numerous avenues are open to residents looking for savings on their solar transition.
Wondering about the solar incentives available in South Carolina? Get in touch with local solar specialists for a comprehensive overview. They can enlighten you about current solar rebates, guide you through application protocols, and offer a personalized solar panel estimate that fits your home's specifications.
ROI on Solar | Solar Payback Period
Wondering how long it takes for solar panels to pay for themselves in South Carolina? Considering our electricity prices and available solar perks, many homeowners find their solar investments paying off within just 7-9 years! After this break-even point, the cost savings continue, underscoring the value of solar energy in the Palmetto State.
Solar Financing Options in South Carolina
Anxious about the upfront solar expenses? There's no need for concern. With financial avenues like power purchase agreements (PPAs) and solar loans available in South Carolina, transitioning to solar has become more affordable without a substantial initial outlay. Leveraging a PPA or solar loan lets you start enjoying the benefit of solar, without straining your wallet.
Interested in exploring zero upfront cost opportunities for solar? Discover the pathways to free solar panel installation in South Carolina!
South Carolina Solar Incentives
Our state is recognized for its enticing solar incentives. Residents here can tap into federal solar tax credits as well as unique state-based rebates and incentives. These offerings significantly reduce the overall cost of adopting solar, marking solar energy as a prudent decision in South Carolina.
See the complete list of South Carolina Solar Incentives here!
Joining the solar revolution in South Carolina is more advantageous now than ever. Harnessing South Carolina's solar incentives and diverse financing options, you can immerse yourself in the sustainable energy movement, leverage our abundant sunshine, and enjoy substantial savings!
Find out if you qualify for solar savings programs!
Do I Qualify?
Please enter a zip code
Are Solar Panels Worth it in South Carolina?
Absolutely! For numerous homeowners in South Carolina, adopting solar energy means noticeable savings on electric bills and a step towards a greener future. With South Carolina's proactive approach to solar, complemented by enticing incentives and tax benefits, many residents find that their investment in solar panels pays off in just a few short years. The best part? Those solar panels don't stop there – they can potentially provide nearly free electricity for as long as 20-30 years or even more. Picture this: continuous savings on your electricity expenses while harnessing clean, renewable energy for decades!
Read Also: The Pros & Cons of Solar Panels in South Carolina.
Embarking on a solar journey in South Carolina can be both straightforward and rewarding, especially when guided correctly. You can quickly obtain a free, no-obligation quote tailored for your home. This includes a detailed digital assessment of your property, insights into the available solar incentives in South Carolina, and a projection of your potential savings. So, why hold back? Explore the spectrum of solar possibilities today and join the expanding community of South Carolinians who are enjoying the myriad benefits of solar energy!
How We Gather Our Cost Data
We take a data-driven approach to the collection and analysis of solar costs to provide our readers with the most accurate information. Our methodology incorporates data from a variety of trustworthy sources including:
- Primary Sources: Every year we survey over 100 South Carolina homeowners with solar panels to analyze pricing data based on direct consumer experience.
- Trusted Resources: We leverage verified datasets and industry reports from authoritative sources including:
- U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
- U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)
- Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA)
- Expert Insights: We regularly consult with dozens of experienced solar professionals across the nation who are familiar with the latest trends, equipment and solar energy pricing in local markets.
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