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Best Solar Companies in South Carolina

Sunrun, Freedom Solar Power and Blue Raven Solar are our top picks

    • Sunrun
      4.2(3,519)
    • Freedom Solar Power
      4.3(336)
    • Blue Raven Solar
      3.7(282)
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    By: Kathryn Parkman
    +2 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Justin Martino
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    Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

    Best Solar Companies in South Carolina

    Based on local customer satisfaction ratings, Sunrun is the best solar company in South Carolina. Freedom Solar Power stands out for long-term savings benefits, and Blue Raven Solar is our pick for customer service.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
    • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
    • 4,785,243 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
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    • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
    • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

    Our 3 picks for the best solar companies in South Carolina

    1. Best overall: Sunrun
    2. Best for long-term savings: Freedom Solar Power
    3. Best for customer service: Blue Raven Solar

    The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, warranties, availability and other factors to select the top picks for this guide. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us, but this does not affect our evaluations. Read the full methodology for all the details on how we make solar company recommendations.

    Our South Carolina solar company picks

    High electricity costs in South Carolina make going solar a smart choice for many residents.This guide highlights companies best equipped to meet the energy needs of most homeowners in the Palmetto State.

    Our top pick overall

    Sunrun

    Sunrun
    4.2
    3,519 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22%
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan and lease
    Year founded
    2007
    Get Started Read Reviews

    Sunrun designs customized solar systems in South Carolina. The process starts with an analysis of your past electricity bills to estimate your energy needs.

    Next, representatives assess your roof’s unique conditions — such as shading, pitch and sun exposure — to create the optimal system design for your home.

    We really like that Sunrun’s solar lease program lets you go solar without a huge upfront investment. There’s no initial charge for any solar equipment, installation or permit. Sunrun owns the system, and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use it.

    What to consider: Some customers have said they are not satisfied with the contract and terms.

    Happy Sunrun customers tell us about efficient installations and savings on electricity bills. Just make sure you read the fine print carefully. 

    “Transitioning to solar has been quite beneficial. One significant advantage has been the noticeable reduction in my electricity bills, which is a major plus.”
    Kayleb Columbia, SC
    “The installation was great. First, we determined that the shingles needed to be replaced. … And then, a few days later the panels themselves showed up with the electrician to wire them in. The whole process was great.”
    Michael Summerville, SC
    “There was a little hiccup during the installation of our solar system. I have a metal roof and they weren't hitting the purlins underneath. They were denting up the roof. They had to go back and reengineer things and got them trimmed out.”
    Jim Columbia, SC
    Pros
    • Reliable systems
    • Flexible payment options
    • Daily system monitoring
    • Roof leak warranty
    Cons
    • Occasional installation delays
    • Some customer service complaints
    • Occasional billing issues
    • Services: Sunrun is a full-service solar panel installer. Battery storage options and EV charging solutions are also available.
    • Equipment: Installers use monocrystalline panels from reputable manufacturers. Tesla, Lunar Energy and FranklinWH solar storage batteries are available.
    • Warranties: The standard warranty covers workmanship and equipment for 10 years. The 95% performance guarantee lasts 25 years. Leased systems typically come with free maintenance and repairs.
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service
    Our pick for long-term savings

    Freedom Solar Power

    Freedom Solar Power
    4.3
    336 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22.8%
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2007
    Get Started Read Reviews

    Freedom Solar Power installs American-designed solar panels built to last at least 25 years. It doesn’t subcontract work to local companies, like some big national solar brokers. As of publication, eligible customers can get started with $0 down and no payments for 18 months.

    What to consider: Freedom Solar Power isn’t necessarily the cheapest option. We think the quality makes it worth it, but you might want to shop around and compare a few quotes.

    Customers overall had positive experiences with Freedom Solar, praising the helpfulness of the staff, smooth installation process and high-quality solar panels. Some reviewers have mentioned issues with communication regarding incentives and city regulations, but were generally satisfied with the service provided.

    “If you're looking for top-of-the-line solar panels, Freedom Solar Power is your best choice.”
    Dorothy Columbia, SC
    Pros
    • Excellent customer service
    • 24/7 performance monitoring
    • Transferable warranty
    • In-house, NABCEP-certified installers
    Cons
    • Somewhat limited availability
    • No in-house financing
    • Services: Freedom Solar Power handles everything from site assessment and permitting to installation and activation. It offers various battery storage options, system maintenance and repairs to help homeowners optimize energy generation.
    • Equipment: Installers use Maxeon, Qcells and Mission Solar panels. These high-efficiency panels feature a low-profile mounting system, making them ideal for homeowners with a sleek aesthetic.
    • Warranties: There’s a 25-year lifetime warranty on all equipment and installations, meaning 100% of repair or replacement costs are covered during that time. System performance is also guaranteed between 84% and 92% of the original production for 25 years.
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Installation Experience
    Our pick for customer service

    Blue Raven Solar

    Blue Raven Solar
    3.7
    282 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2014
    Get Started Read Reviews

    Blue Raven Solar makes going solar simple and affordable. Its flexible financing options let you get started with no money down, so you don’t have to worry about steep upfront costs.

    We also like that the company takes a tech-driven approach.

    You’ll get top-tier panels and microinverters designed to maximize energy production, plus a sleek, low-profile system built to withstand harsh weather conditions.

    What to consider: Blue Raven might not be the quickest installer. Solar installations are complicated projects, and there’s always a chance that projected timelines change due to weather or supply chain issues.

    Many Blue Raven customers tell us about helpful sales reps, efficient installations and quality solar equipment. However, we have heard some complaints about installation issues, including delays in turning on the system, from reviewers.

    “The Blue Raven crew … were personable, prompt and efficient. They were respectful, cheerful and informed us well about the next steps in the process.”
    Deborah Ladson, SC
    Pros
    • Efficient installation process
    • Zero-down financing
    • Production guarantee
    • Good monitoring app
    Cons
    • Occasional installation delays
    • Some complaints about miscommunication
    • Services: The company handles the entire installation process, from obtaining permits to connecting your system to the grid. Monitoring to track your system's performance and maintenance or repair services are available as needed.
    • Equipment: Panels are sourced from brands like SEG, Qcells, REC, Jinko Solar and Silfab Solar. For storage batteries, there are lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) batteries from Enphase, FranklinWH and Tesla.
    • Warranties: All systems have a 25-year panel and a two-year production guarantee. Storage battery warranties vary between 10 and 15 years. Workmanship is guaranteed for 10 years.
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Installation Experience

    Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in South Carolina

    We started with a list of popular solar companies and narrowed it down to those serving South Carolina. We then ranked them based on the factors that matter most to homeowners:

    Local customer satisfaction (65%)
    We analyzed reviews from verified customers in South Carolina. Companies with the most recent positive ratings were scored higher.

    Price satisfaction (7%)
    We evaluated customer feedback on overall cost and value.

    Installation satisfaction (7%)
    We looked at reviews of the installation process, including professionalism, timeliness and overall quality of the work.

    Customer service satisfaction (7%)
    We evaluated feedback on how responsive and helpful each company is before, during and after installation.

    Payment options (7%)
    We considered companies that make paying for solar easier by offering multiple financing and payment options.

    Warranties and guarantees (7%)
    A long warranty shows confidence in a company’s work. We compared both equipment and workmanship warranties. Our top picks provide 10 to 25 years of coverage.

    Solar Companies in South Carolina Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Sunrun logo
    Freedom Solar Power logo
    Blue Raven Solar logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      We’ve heard from more than 100,000 verified solar customers since 2018. A couple of things we know for sure: People like powering their homes with a reliable source of cheap, clean energy. They don’t like getting into solar contracts that don’t meet their expectations.

      Here’s what to expect and what to look out for when buying solar panels in South Carolina.

      Key insights

      A typical solar panel installation costs between $8,819 and $25,199, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for.

      Jump to insight

      Going solar isn’t just a green move in South Carolina. It’s also a smart money move.

      Jump to insight

      Look for companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in South Carolina. It makes it easier to navigate regulations, permits and available financial incentives.

      Jump to insight

      How to choose a solar company in South Carolina

      Solar panels are a long-term investment — most systems last 25 years or more. That means choosing the right installer is just as important as choosing the right equipment.

      Based on our research, the best solar energy companies share a few traits: strong customer reviews, high-quality equipment and reliable warranties. Here are the key steps to finding the right fit.

      See our picks for the best solar companies in Charleston and Columbia for more.

      1. Know what you want

      If you’re going solar to save on energy costs, you have to make sure your system is big enough to generate enough power.

      A typical South Carolina household needs a 7.6 kW system to offset energy costs enough to make going solar worth it. You might need a smaller or larger system depending on your household energy usage.

      How do I know what size system I need?

      On your electric bill, it should say how many kilowatt-hours (kWh) you used last year. Divide that number by 1,200 to estimate your system size in kilowatts (kW). For example, if you used 12,000 kWh last year, you need a 10-kW system.

      Pro tip

      If you have an electric car, ask about EV charger options. Homeowners in more rural parts of South Carolina should also consider critter guards to protect the panels.

      » RELATED: How many solar panels do you need for your house?

      What to know about solar batteries

      Solar panels only generate electricity when the sun is shining. A solar battery stores the extra energy your panels produce during the day so you can use it at night or during a power outage.

      Without a battery, that unused energy goes to the grid, and you’ll still depend on utility power after dark.

      Adding a battery can provide backup power and reduce electricity costs, but it comes with a higher upfront price. Solar battery costs are generally between $7,000 and $18,000.

      2. Read reviews

      Look at reviews on platforms like ConsumerAffairs and other forums to see real customer experiences. Watch out for these red flags:

      • Equipment failures that aren’t resolved quickly
      • Misleading sales tactics about costs or savings
      • Billing and contract issues

      Local experience matters too. Companies with a history in South Carolina understand state-specific incentive programs, utility rules, permitting requirements and how to design systems that perform well in the Blue Ridge Mountains or coastal climates.

      3. Check credentials

      All residential solar installers need a residential builder’s specialty registration with an electrical classification, according to the South Carolina Energy Office. Confirm your installer also has:

      • Insurance coverage to protect your home during installation
      • NABCEP certification (the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners is a respected national credential for solar installers)

      4. Compare quotes

      Get quotes from at least three or four different solar installers in South Carolina. This lets you compare different proposed equipment, pricing, financing terms and estimated energy production.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In South Carolina, the average cost per watt is $2.52.

      Make sure the quoted price includes installation, permits and grid hookup, and watch for hidden fees like monitoring or service charges.

      Pro tip

      Upgrade old appliances before going solar. A more eco-friendly water heater, refrigerator or clothes dryer reduces how much electricity your household needs. That means you can get a smaller system, which will be cheaper overall.

      5. Read the fine print

      The contract should be easy to understand. Focus on warranties for panels, inverters and installation workmanship, as well as any performance guarantees.

      If anything about payment schedules, warranties, monitoring services or system maintenance doesn’t make sense — ask for clarification.

      How much does it cost to install solar panels in South Carolina?

      Average solar panel costs in South Carolina typically range between $8,819 and $25,199.

      The size of your solar system plays a big role in how much it costs overall. Another major factor is what incentives you’re eligible for.

      Average solar installation cost by system size in South Carolina

      Are solar panels worth it in South Carolina?

      Based on feedback from dozens of solar customers in Palmetto State, the general consensus is that solar panels are worth it in South Carolina. On average, residents with solar panels can avoid $51,366 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      One resident, Johnny in Williamston, is satisfied with his decision to go solar. “My carbon footprint has been reduced. My monthly electric bill has been reduced,” he said. Similarly, Jana in Donalds said her power bill went from $200 to $36 after she switched to solar.

      Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 over 25 years.

      However, not everyone benefits from solar panels in the same way. South Carolina averages 4 to 4.5 peak sun hours each day. If you have a lot of shading around your house, though, the panels might not get enough sun to power your home.

      If you like the idea of helping the environment, lowering your monthly utility bills and gaining more energy independence, it’s at least worth considering.

      We suggest using NREL’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house — just type in your address. Project Sunroof is a free solar savings estimator powered by Google Earth imagery.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      Solar incentives in South Carolina

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is now set to expire at the end of the year, much earlier than previously scheduled. The credit was expected to drop gradually, then fully expire in 2035 — but those future step-downs have been eliminated as of July 2025.

      This means you have until Dec. 31, 2025, to install and pay for a system to qualify for the 30% credit.

      On the bright side, you might be eligible for additional solar incentives in South Carolina, like the Santee Cooper rebate and loan programs.

      FAQ

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      You can pay the full cost upfront, but many finance their system through a solar loan. It works like most other types of loans — there is an application process, and you pay the loan back over time with interest.

      Alternatively, you can lease solar panels. Another option is using a home equity line of credit or loan.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Can I get free solar panels in South Carolina?

      We are not aware of any legitimate programs for free solar panels in South Carolina. However, you can lease a solar energy system with little to no upfront costs. Just look out for scams that promise free solar panels — they can end up costing you quite a bit of money.

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      Should I replace my roof before going solar?

      As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This will cost around $5,000 for a 19-panel setup.

      How does net metering work in South Carolina?

      Net metering lets homeowners get credits for extra electricity their solar panels generate. In South Carolina, how much each credit is worth varies depending on the time of year and your current electric rate. The credit goes toward your next month’s utility bill. At the end of the year, your utility company will pay you for any leftover credits.

      Guide sources

      ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this guide include:

      1. DSIRE, “South Carolina Programs.” Accessed Sept. 26, 2025. 
      2. Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), “South Carolina Solar.” Accessed Sept. 26, 2025.
      3. Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed Sept. 26, 2025. 
      4. Federal Trade Commission, “Solar Power for Your Home.” Accessed Sept. 26, 2025. 
      5. U.S. Department of Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to Going Solar.” Accessed Sept. 26, 2025. 
      6. Solar Energy Industries Association, “Residential Consumer Guide to Solar Energy.” Accessed Sept. 26, 2025. 

      Not sure how to choose?

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