The Best Home Solar in Hanahan, SC

Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Hanahan, South Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.

#1

Palmetto Solar

4.7
(180 reviews)
Verified

A leading regional and national solar provider with a strong presence in South Carolina. They are known for comprehensive service from initial consultation and system design to installation, financing, and ongoing monitoring and maintenance. They offer a streamlined process and strong partnerships with major equipment manufacturers.

2137 Northwoods Blvd, Suite L, North Charleston, SC 29406 (This is their primary Lowcountry office serving Hanahan)

Specialties & Features

Solar financing and leasing options
Battery storage system installation
Professional licensing and certifications

Business Information

Years in Business:12 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Solar Source USA

4.8
(90 reviews)
Verified

A highly-rated, locally-owned and operated company based in the Charleston area. They emphasize personalized service and custom system design for the specific needs of Lowcountry homes, including considerations for hurricane resilience and high humidity. Their excellent customer reviews frequently mention their knowledgeable and professional team.

3349 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405

Specialties & Features

Residential solar panel installation
Energy efficiency assessments
Grid-tied and off-grid solar solutions

Business Information

Years in Business:8 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Elevation Solar and Roofing

4.6
(120 reviews)
Verified

A company that combines solar expertise with roofing services, which is a significant advantage for homeowners concerned about roof integrity or those looking to bundle a new roof with their solar installation. They serve the entire tri-county area and offer robust financing options and in-house installation crews.

1905 Belgrade Avenue, Suite D, Charleston, SC 29407

Specialties & Features

Solar panel maintenance and repair
Solar energy system design and consultation
Manufacturer partnerships and warranties

Business Information

Years in Business:7 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top Home Solar Contractors in Hanahan

** The home solar market in Hanahan, SC, is part of the robust and competitive Charleston metropolitan solar industry. The market is characterized by a mix of large regional/national providers and smaller, locally-owned companies, creating a healthy competitive environment that benefits consumers. * **Average Quality & Competition:** The overall quality of providers is high, with companies needing to maintain excellent reputations to compete. Key differentiators are often customer service, the quality of equipment (e.g., Panasonic, Qcells, Enphase), and the depth of local knowledge regarding South Carolina's net metering policies, coastal weather challenges, and available incentives. * **Typical Pricing:** The average cost for a residential solar panel system in South Carolina ranges from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For a typical 6 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of approximately **$15,000 to $21,000**. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows homeowners to deduct 30% of the system cost from their federal taxes, significantly reducing the net investment. Many companies offer $0-down loan and lease options, making solar more accessible. * **Local Factors:** Hanahan residents benefit from South Carolina's favorable solar policies, including a state net metering law and the absence of state-level solar restrictions. The high humidity and potential for severe weather mean that reputable installers will have expertise in proper flashing, racking, and system grounding to ensure long-term durability.

High Ratings

4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews

Fully Licensed

All contractors are properly licensed and insured

Proven Experience

10+ years average experience in the industry

Local Experts

Familiar with Hanahan regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Solar in Hanahan

Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Hanahan, South Carolina.

1What is the average cost of a home solar system in Hanahan, SC, and are there any local incentives?

For a typical 6-8 kW system in Hanahan, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can combine the 30% federal solar tax credit with South Carolina's state tax credit of 25% (capped at $3,500 or 50% of tax liability), significantly reducing your net investment. Additionally, Berkeley Electric Cooperative offers net metering, and South Carolina exempts solar equipment from property tax increases.

2How does Hanahan's climate and weather affect solar panel production and efficiency?

Hanahan's humid subtropical climate is excellent for solar, with ample sunshine averaging 215 clear days per year. While summer heat can slightly reduce panel efficiency, the long daylight hours lead to peak production. Coastal humidity requires occasional cleaning to prevent pollen and salt spray residue, but heavy snow is not a concern, ensuring consistent year-round generation.

3What should I look for when choosing a solar installer serving the Hanahan area?

Prioritize installers licensed in South Carolina with specific experience navigating Berkeley Electric Cooperative's interconnection process and local Hanahan building permit requirements. Look for established companies with strong local references, as they understand regional roof styles (common to withstand occasional severe weather) and can provide reliable, long-term service and maintenance support.

4How long does the entire process take from signing a contract to turning the system on in Hanahan?

The timeline typically spans 2 to 4 months. After design, you must obtain permits from the City of Hanahan and secure interconnection approval from Berkeley Electric Cooperative, which can take several weeks. Installation itself is often completed in 1-3 days, followed by a final inspection and the utility's installation of a net meter before your system can be activated.

5Will solar panels hold up during the severe thunderstorms and potential hurricanes we experience in the Lowcountry?

Yes, modern solar panels are rigorously tested to withstand severe weather, including hail and high winds. Installers in Hanahan must follow strict building codes designed for our coastal wind zone, often engineering systems to withstand winds well over 140 mph. Properly installed systems are durable assets, and your homeowner's insurance policy typically covers them.