Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Clifton, South Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar provider with a strong presence in the Upstate SC area. They are known for comprehensive service from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance. Palmetto emphasizes making solar accessible through various financing options and has deep knowledge of South Carolina-specific incentives.
This provider combines the national reach and high-efficiency equipment of SunPower with a strong local operations team. They are particularly noted for their high-quality, proprietary solar panels and robust warranty offerings. Their consultants are experts in designing systems for maximum energy production.
As one of the largest privately-held solar companies on the East Coast, Trinity Solar brings significant experience and stability. They offer a full suite of services and are known for their professional installation crews and long-term customer service support, including maintenance and repair.
** The home solar market in and around Clifton, South Carolina, is moderately competitive and served primarily by established regional and national companies based in the larger hubs of Spartanburg and Greenville. The average quality of providers is high, as companies operating in this market must be properly licensed by the state of South Carolina and are subject to a discerning customer base. Competition helps ensure a range of financing options, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). Typical pricing for a residential system is in line with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit and any local utility incentives. The market is characterized by a strong focus on grid-tied systems with the optional addition of battery storage for backup power, a feature increasingly important to homeowners. Overall, Clifton residents have access to reputable, professional solar installation services from companies with proven track records in the Upstate region.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Clifton regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Clifton, South Carolina.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Clifton, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, South Carolina homeowners benefit from the 30% federal solar tax credit and the state's 25% tax credit (capped at $3,500 or 50% of tax liability), which together can reduce your net cost by over 50%. Additionally, you can sell excess power back to your utility through net metering, and Spartanburg County has no additional property tax on the increased home value from solar.
Clifton's climate is excellent for solar, with ample sunshine averaging over 210 clear days per year. While summer heat can slightly reduce panel efficiency, the long daylight hours lead to peak production. Seasonal variations mean you'll generate more in the sunny, long days of spring and summer than in shorter winter days, but modern systems are designed to provide significant annual savings even with this cyclical production.
Prioritize installers licensed in South Carolina with strong local experience, as they will understand Spartanburg County's specific permitting and interconnection processes with Duke Energy. Check for certifications like NABCEP, read local reviews, and ask for references from recent installations in the area. A reputable local provider will also handle all paperwork for state incentives and net metering on your behalf.
From contract to activation, the process typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes system design, securing permits from Spartanburg County, Duke Energy's interconnection agreement review, the physical installation (1-3 days), and the final inspection and utility approval. Working with an experienced local installer can help streamline this process and avoid delays.
Yes, local factors include older roof conditions, as many homes in the area have architectural shingles that should be in good shape before installation. Tree coverage is another common consideration; a site assessment will determine if shading from mature pines or hardwoods will significantly impact production. Furthermore, installers must adhere to local setback requirements from roof edges and ensure your electrical panel can handle the new system.