Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in North Charleston, South Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar provider with a strong focus on the Southeast. Palmetto is known for its comprehensive service offerings, from initial design and financing to ongoing maintenance and monitoring. They have strong partnerships with major equipment manufacturers and offer flexible purchasing, loan, and leasing options.
One of the largest privately-held solar providers on the East Coast, Trinity Solar has a significant operation in South Carolina. They are recognized for their in-house installation teams, customer-centric approach, and extensive experience with both grid-tied and battery backup systems. They provide a strong warranty and focus on energy efficiency.
A highly-rated, locally-owned and operated company based in the nearby Summerville area. Solar Source SC has built an excellent reputation for personalized service, high-quality craftsmanship, and deep knowledge of local permitting and incentives. They specialize in custom-designed systems for residential properties.
** The home solar market in North Charleston is **robust and competitive**, characterized by a mix of large national/regional players and respected local installers. The high number of sunny days and favorable state net metering policies (though subject to change) make it an attractive market. The average quality of providers is high, with most holding necessary NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certifications and partnerships with tier-1 manufacturers like Tesla, SunPower, and Qcells. **Competition Level:** High. Homeowners have multiple reputable options, which drives competitive pricing and better customer service. **Typical Pricing:** As a general guide, the average cost for a residential solar panel system in South Carolina before incentives ranges from **$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 final net cost is significantly reduced by the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and any local utility rebates. Most companies offer $0-down loan options, making solar more accessible. It is crucial for homeowners to obtain multiple quotes to ensure they are receiving a competitive price for their specific energy needs.
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 Charleston regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in North Charleston, South Carolina.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in North Charleston, homeowners can expect an average gross cost between $18,000 and $28,000 before incentives. Crucially, South Carolina offers a 25% state income tax credit (capped at $3,500 or 50% of tax liability) on top of the 30% federal tax credit, significantly reducing the net cost. Additionally, you retain the property tax exemption for the added home value from solar, and SCE&G (Dominion Energy) offers a favorable net metering program.
North Charleston's abundant sunshine, with over 200 clear days annually, is excellent for solar energy production. The humid, coastal climate and potential for severe weather mean it's critical to install panels rated for high wind speeds (common for hurricanes) and to choose corrosion-resistant equipment. While summer heat can slightly reduce panel efficiency, the long, sunny days more than compensate, making annual production very strong.
Prioritize installers who are locally licensed, insured, and have extensive experience with the specific permitting processes of the City of North Charleston and Berkeley County. Look for providers familiar with SCE&G's (Dominion Energy) interconnection requirements and who offer robust warranties that cover both equipment and workmanship against coastal weather. Always check for South Carolina-licensed electricians on staff and review local references.
From contract to activation typically takes 2 to 4 months. The timeline includes system design, securing permits from the city/county, SCE&G (Dominion Energy) interconnection approval, the physical installation (1-3 days), and the final city inspection and utility meter swap. Seasonal factors like the busy spring period or hurricane season preparations can sometimes cause slight delays, so planning ahead is beneficial.
Standard grid-tied systems automatically shut off during a power outage for safety, unless paired with a dedicated battery backup like a Tesla Powerwall. Given North Charleston's hurricane risk, discussing battery storage with your installer is a wise preparedness step. For hurricane threats, panels are designed to withstand high winds, but you should follow your installer's guidance, which may include having a professional inspect the mounting post-storm.