Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Irmo, South Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading, locally-owned and operated solar installer in South Carolina with a strong focus on custom residential system design, premium equipment, and comprehensive post-installation support. They are known for their deep knowledge of state and local incentives.
As a SunPower Master Dealer, this provider offers some of the most efficient solar panels on the market. They have a strong national backing with a local franchise presence, providing robust warranty options and streamlined financing, including their popular BluePower+ financing product.
A highly respected, employee-owned B-Corp known for exceptional quality, rigorous engineering, and a strong commitment to customer education and energy efficiency. They often partner with high-end equipment manufacturers and attract customers looking for a premium, no-compromise installation.
** The home solar market in Irmo, and the greater Columbia area, is **moderately competitive and of high average quality**. Homeowners have access to several established, reputable installers rather than a saturated market of fly-by-night operations. Key drivers include South Carolina's strong net metering policy, the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC), and the state's abundant sunshine. **Competition Level:** Moderate. A handful of strong regional and national players dominate the market, ensuring competitive pricing and service options. **Average Quality:** High. The top providers hold advanced certifications (like NABCEP), partner with tier-1 equipment manufacturers (SunPower, Panasonic, LG), and offer comprehensive warranties. **Typical Pricing:** The average cost for a residential solar system in South Carolina is between **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For a typical 6 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of **$15,000 to $21,000**. After applying the 30% federal tax credit, the net investment typically falls between **$10,500 and $14,700**. Financing options, including loans and leases, are widely available from all top providers to make systems affordable with little or no money down.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Irmo regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Irmo, South Carolina.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Irmo, 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 a state tax credit of 25% of the system cost (capped at $3,500 or 50% of tax liability). Additionally, South Carolina offers a full property tax exemption for the added home value from solar, and net metering is available from local utilities like Dominion Energy.
Irmo's humid subtropical climate is generally favorable for solar, with ample sunshine averaging over 210 days per year. While summer heat can slightly reduce panel efficiency, the long daylight hours lead to high seasonal production. Energy output will be lower during shorter, cloudier winter days, but the system is designed to account for this seasonal variation, ensuring annual production targets are met.
Prioritize installers who are licensed, insured, and have strong local experience navigating permits with Lexington County and interconnection rules with Dominion Energy. Look for companies with NABCEP-certified technicians and a robust portfolio of installations in Irmo's neighborhoods, as they will understand local roof styles (common to Midlands SC) and optimal panel placement for our specific sun path and potential shading from tall pines.
From contract to activation, the process typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes system design, securing permits from Lexington County, scheduling installation (which itself takes 1-3 days), and finally the inspection and approval ("Permission to Operate") from Dominion Energy. Delays can occur during the utility interconnection review, so working with an experienced local installer who manages this process is key.
Most insurers in South Carolina treat solar panels as a permanent attachment to your home, often covered without a separate rider, though you should notify your provider. Panels are rigorously tested to withstand hail and high winds; modern systems are rated for winds up to 140 mph, which exceeds typical Midlands storm conditions. Proper installation by a qualified local contractor is critical for this durability.