Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in North, South Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading national provider with a strong local presence, known for high-efficiency solar panels and comprehensive service. They are a top-tier installer that handles everything from custom design and financing to installation and maintenance, focusing on a premium customer experience.
A highly respected, employee-owned company based in NC with a strong commitment to quality and customer education. They are known for their meticulous system design, energy efficiency expertise, and focus on both grid-tied and off-grid solutions. They are a certified B Corporation.
A local Carolina-based company that has built a strong reputation for personalized service and quality workmanship. They offer a full suite of services from design to maintenance and have extensive knowledge of local incentives and net metering policies.
** The home solar market in and around North, South Carolina, is competitive and robust, driven by the state's excellent solar resources and favorable net metering policies. The average quality of providers is high, with several nationally recognized and locally respected companies vying for business. Homeowners have a good selection of options ranging from premium, high-cost/high-efficiency systems to more value-oriented solutions. **Competition Level:** High. Numerous established providers operate regionally, leading to competitive pricing and strong customer service incentives. **Typical Pricing:** The average cost for a residential solar system in South Carolina before incentives is between **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt**. For a typical 6 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of **$15,000 to $21,000**. The federal solar tax credit (30% of the system cost) and potential local incentives can significantly reduce this net investment. Most companies offer various financing options, including loans and leases, to make systems more accessible. *** **Disclaimer:** While these companies are real, highly reputable, and serve the North, SC area, it is always recommended to contact them directly to confirm they are currently accepting projects in your specific location and to get a personalized quote. Always verify licensing and insurance for your specific project.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with North regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in North, South Carolina.
The average gross cost for a residential solar system in the Carolinas ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size and home energy needs. Crucially, you can significantly reduce this cost with the 30% federal solar tax credit and South Carolina's state tax credit of 25% (capped at $3,500) or North Carolina's state tax credit which has expired but was replaced by a sales tax exemption. Duke Energy and Dominion Energy customers may also access net metering programs, which provide bill credits for excess energy sent back to the grid.
The Carolinas' climate is excellent for solar, with ample sunshine averaging over 200 sunny days per year, leading to strong energy production. While summer heat can slightly reduce panel efficiency, the long daylight hours more than compensate. Seasonal considerations include potential pollen accumulation in spring, which requires occasional cleaning, and the benefit of net metering, which allows you to bank summer overproduction credits to offset higher winter usage when days are shorter.
Prioritize installers who are locally licensed, insured, and have extensive experience with the specific utility interconnection processes for Duke Energy or Dominion Energy. Look for companies with strong references from nearby projects, as they will be most familiar with local building codes, permitting requirements in your city or county, and the best equipment for withstanding occasional severe weather like high winds or hail. Always compare multiple detailed quotes and verify their certifications (like NABCEP).
From contract to activation, the process typically takes 3 to 6 months in the Carolinas. The timeline includes system design, securing permits from your local municipality, scheduling the installation (which usually takes 1-3 days), and most importantly, the utility interconnection approval and final inspection. The wait for Duke Energy or Dominion Energy to install a net meter and grant "Permission to Operate" can be the longest variable, so choosing an installer with a proven track record of navigating these utility procedures is key.
In both states, a state law provides a property tax exemption for the added value of a solar energy system, so your property taxes should not increase. Regarding insurance, you must notify your provider, as the system becomes part of your home. Most policies cover solar panels, but you may need a slight increase in dwelling coverage. It's essential to review your policy, especially considering local risks like wind or hail, and ensure your installer provides the necessary documentation for your insurer.