Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Gaffney, South Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional provider based in nearby Charlotte, NC, with a strong reputation across the Carolinas. They offer a comprehensive, turnkey approach to residential solar, from initial consultation and custom design to installation, financing, and maintenance. They are known for their expertise in local incentive programs and high-quality craftsmanship.
This provider combines the premium product line of SunPower with strong local installation expertise. They are a top choice for homeowners seeking high-efficiency panels and robust warranty coverage. They offer flexible financing, including their own proprietary plans, and have a dedicated team for energy efficiency assessments.
A highly respected, employee-owned B Corp certified company known for its exceptional customer service and technical expertise. While based in North Carolina, they have a significant presence and project portfolio in South Carolina, including the Gaffney area. They specialize in complex system designs and are experts in both grid-tied and battery-backed solutions.
** The home solar market in Gaffney, South Carolina, is part of the growing renewable energy landscape in the Upstate region. The market is characterized by strong competition from reputable regional installers based in Greenville, Spartanburg, and Charlotte, rather than a high density of local, Gaffney-exclusive companies. The average quality of service is high, as these established companies bring extensive experience and professional certifications (like NABCEP) to the area. Competition is robust, which is beneficial for consumers, leading to competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in Gaffney aligns with national averages, generally ranging from **$15,000 to $30,000+** before the 30% federal tax credit, depending heavily on system size, panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage. Homeowners in South Carolina can also benefit from the state's 5% property tax abatement for solar installations and the lack of sales tax on solar equipment, further improving the return on investment. Net metering policies from local utilities like Duke Energy also help to make solar a financially viable option.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Gaffney regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Gaffney, South Carolina.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Gaffney, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can claim the 30% federal solar tax credit, and South Carolina offers a state tax credit of 25% of the system cost (capped at $3,500 or 50% of your tax liability). Additionally, South Carolina has a strong 1-to-1 net metering policy, and Duke Energy (Gaffney's primary utility) must credit you at the full retail rate for excess power sent to the grid, significantly improving payback time.
Gaffney's climate is excellent for solar, with ample sunshine (about 213 sunny days per year, above the U.S. average) and mild winters that allow for consistent year-round production. The humid summers can cause some efficiency loss on extremely hot days, but modern panels handle this well. The best time to install is typically in spring or fall to avoid summer heat and winter holidays, but installation can proceed year-round as long as your roof is accessible.
Installing solar in Gaffney requires a building permit from the Cherokee County Building Codes Department. Your installer will typically handle this process. Critically, your system must be inspected and approved by both the county and Duke Energy before it can be interconnected to the grid. South Carolina state law (Act 62) also prohibits homeowners associations (HOAs) from banning solar installations, though they can have reasonable rules on placement.
Prioritize providers licensed in South Carolina with strong local experience and knowledge of Duke Energy's interconnection process. Check for certifications like NABCEP and read verified local reviews. Get multiple detailed quotes and ask for references from recent installations in Cherokee County. A trustworthy local installer will understand specific factors like optimal panel angles for our latitude and how to navigate local permitting efficiently.
Standard grid-tied systems automatically shut off during a Duke Energy outage for safety, unless paired with a dedicated battery backup. For storm resilience, panels are rated to withstand hail and high winds (typically up to 140+ mph), and your installer will ensure they are properly secured for our region's weather. It's wise to discuss adding a critical-load battery system with your installer if backup power is a primary concern for you.