Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Pickens, South Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar provider with a strong presence across the Southeast. They are known for a comprehensive, full-service approach from initial consultation and system design to installation, financing, and maintenance. They have extensive experience with the specific incentives and net metering policies relevant to South Carolina.
A locally-owned and operated company based in the Upstate, known for personalized service and deep community ties. They specialize in custom residential system designs for both grid-tied and off-grid solutions, often catering to more rural properties common in the Pickens area. Their customer reviews consistently praise their responsiveness and attention to detail.
A well-established, multi-state solar contractor with a significant operational base in South Carolina. They are recognized for their strong manufacturer partnerships (e.g., Tesla, Panasonic) and robust warranty offerings. Renu provides a wide array of services, including professional solar panel cleaning and maintenance plans, which is a key differentiator.
** The home solar market in Pickens, South Carolina, is part of the growing and competitive Upstate solar industry. The market is characterized by a mix of large regional players and smaller, specialized local installers. The average quality is high, as companies competing in this area must be well-versed in local building codes, Duke Energy's net metering program, and available state incentives like the South Carolina Solar Tax Credit. Competition is robust, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential system ranges from **$15,000 to $35,000+** before incentives, heavily dependent on system size, panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage. The region's high electricity costs and abundant sunshine make solar an increasingly attractive investment for Pickens homeowners.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Pickens regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Pickens, South Carolina.
For a typical 6kW to 8kW system in Pickens, 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. You should also check with Pickens County or your specific utility (like Duke Energy) for any additional local rebates or net metering programs.
Pickens' climate is excellent for solar, with ample sunshine averaging over 210 sunny days per year, which is above the U.S. average. While summer heat can slightly reduce panel efficiency, the long daylight hours lead to high overall production. Seasonal variations are normal, with peak production in spring and summer, but even winter days generate power thanks to South Carolina's relatively mild climate and clear, cold days that can boost panel voltage.
Prioritize installers who are licensed, insured, and have specific experience with local permitting in Pickens County and the interconnection requirements of utilities like Duke Energy or Blue Ridge Electric. Look for established companies with strong local references and a physical presence in the Upstate SC region, as they will be more accessible for maintenance and understand regional factors like roof pitches suitable for our latitude and potential for pollen/debris cleaning.
The entire process typically takes 2 to 4 months. After design, the timeline includes securing permits from Pickens County, which can vary, followed by the installation itself (1-3 days). The longest phase is often waiting for Duke Energy or your local utility to approve interconnection and install a net meter, which can take several weeks. A reputable local installer will manage this timeline and keep you informed.
No, South Carolina has a 100% property tax exemption for the added value of a residential solar energy system, so your property taxes will not increase. Regarding weather, modern solar panels are rigorously tested to withstand Upstate SC hail and high winds. Most are rated for 1-inch hail at 50+ mph and wind loads exceeding 140 mph, which meets or exceeds local building codes, and this durability should be backed by strong product and workmanship warranties.