Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in USC, South Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading local and employee-owned company with a strong focus on custom solar energy system design, installation, and maintenance. They are known for their high-quality craftsmanship, excellent customer service, and deep knowledge of South Carolina-specific incentives. They handle the entire process from consultation to permitting and installation.
As a SunPower Master Dealer, this provider offers some of the industry's most efficient solar panels and robust warranties. They combine national buying power and top-tier equipment with a strong local installation team. They are particularly adept at explaining complex financing options to make solar accessible.
A strong regional provider with extensive experience across the Southeast, including South Carolina. They offer a comprehensive suite of services from initial energy assessment to ongoing monitoring and maintenance. Their platform-based approach simplifies the solar journey for homeowners.
** The home solar market in the Columbia, SC area is **robust and moderately competitive**. The quality of providers is generally high, with several established local and regional companies competing with national franchises. The presence of the University of South Carolina and a state government hub contributes to a population that is often knowledgeable about and interested in renewable energy. South Carolina offers favorable conditions for solar, including strong sun exposure and state-level incentives like a 25% state tax credit (capped) in addition to the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This has spurred significant market growth over the past decade. **Competition Level:** High. Homeowners have multiple reputable options, which helps keep pricing competitive and encourages high service standards. **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**. After applying the 30% federal tax credit, the net cost typically falls between **$10,500 and $14,700**. Financing options, including loans and leases, are widely available from all top providers, making $0-down installations common.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with USC regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in USC, South Carolina.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in the Columbia/USC area, the average gross cost ranges from $18,000 to $25,000 before incentives. South Carolina offers a significant state income tax credit of 25% of the system cost (capped at $3,500 or 50% of tax liability), which stacks with the 30% federal tax credit. Additionally, South Carolina has a favorable 1% property tax assessment ratio for solar, meaning your property taxes won't significantly increase after installation.
The abundant sunshine in the Midlands, including the USC area, is excellent for solar production, especially during long summer days. However, high summer temperatures can slightly reduce panel efficiency. This is offset by the fact that your energy needs for air conditioning are highest when production is also high. Systems are designed to account for this, and the net metering policy with Dominion Energy or SCE&G allows you to bank excess summer credits to use during shorter, cloudier winter days.
Prioritize installers who are licensed, insured, and have strong local experience. They should be intimately familiar with the permitting processes for the City of Columbia or Richland County and the interconnection requirements for your specific utility (e.g., Dominion Energy). Look for established companies with strong warranties and a portfolio of local installations. Check for certifications like NABCEP and read reviews from South Carolina homeowners to gauge reliability and service.
South Carolina has a "Solar Rights Act" (Code of Laws § 6-29-910) that prohibits HOAs from outright banning solar installations, but they can establish reasonable rules regarding placement and aesthetics. In the USC area, you must obtain a building permit from your local municipality (City of Columbia or Richland County). Your chosen installer will typically manage this process, ensuring the system meets all structural and electrical codes specific to our region.
In the USC area, your utility (likely Dominion Energy or SCE&G) offers net metering. Your solar system sends excess power to the grid, spinning your meter backward and earning you a credit. At night or on cloudy days, you draw power and use those credits. Importantly, a standard grid-tied system will shut off during a power outage for safety reasons unless you have a dedicated solar battery backup. Adding a battery, like a Tesla Powerwall or similar, is an increasingly popular option in South Carolina to provide backup power during storms.