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Best Solar Companies in South Carolina

We compared 99 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Freedom Solar Power
      4.6(283)
    • Project Solar
      4.8(77)
    • Sunrun
      4.2(3,062)
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    By: Kathryn Parkman
    +1 more
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    Edited by: Justin Martino

    Best Solar Companies in South Carolina

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Freedom Solar Power logo
    Project Solar logo
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      If you've been thinking about going solar in South Carolina but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone. ConsumerAffairs is here to help you compare your options and get the best deal.

      Our top solar company picks

      1. Our top pick overall: Freedom Solar Power
      2. Our pick for value: Project Solar
      3. Our pick for solar leases: Sunrun

      To select our top picks for this guide, we compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties, availability and other factors. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear. Read our full methodology for all the details.

      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,593,216 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
      • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
      • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
      • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

      The best solar companies, reviewed

      2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
      Freedom Solar Power
      Freedom Solar Power
      4.6
      283 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      22.8%
      Workmanship warranty
      25 years
      Year founded
      2007
      Get Started Read Reviews

      We’ve talked to more than 200 Freedom Solar Power customers. Over a recent two-year period, 92% were satisfied with the installation and setup, 94% were satisfied with the price and 85% were satisfied with the customer service.

      “If you're looking for top-of-the-line solar panels, Freedom Solar Power is your best choice. But don't write it off if you're looking for a less flashy installation that will get the job done. Freedom Solar Power might be a good option for you.” — Dorothy in Columbia

      The installation process is generally smooth and efficient, though a few customers seemed annoyed by supply chain delays (a common theme in many solar company reviews). It’s also not always the cheapest upfront.

      Freedom Solar Power specializes in rooftop solar panels and ground-mounted systems. Battery options include SunVault backup power systems and Tesla Powerwalls.

      Freedom Solar Power services

      • Residential and commercial solar panel installation
      • Deinstallation and reinstallation for roof repairs
      • Energy monitoring
      • Repair, maintenance and upgrades

      Freedom Solar Power has a 25-year lifetime warranty on equipment and installations. The company will replace equipment on behalf of the manufacturer and cover 100% of repair or replacement costs during this time. System performance is guaranteed between 84% and 92% of original production for 25 years.

      Systems are available for cash purchase. There are also financing options with low interest rates, no money down and 12 months payment plans.

      Pros

      • Long-term savings
      • Excellent customer service
      • 24/7 performance monitoring
      • Transferable warranty
      • In-house, NABCEP-certified installation crews

      Cons

      • Somewhat limited availability
      • No in-house financing
      2x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service and Best for Installation
      Our pick for value
      Project Solar
      Project Solar
      4.8
      77 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      20.9%
      Workmanship warranty
      10 years
      Year founded
      2016
      Read Reviews

      Instead of working on commissions, Project Solar reps focus on a simple, streamlined customer experience. This no-sales-gimmicks approach appeals to more budget-conscious solar clients who want either professional or do-it-yourself installation.

      We also appreciate the price transparency. As of publishing, full-service installations start at $1.61 per watt. DIY projects are cheaper, starting at $1.26 per watt. Anything over 13 kilowatts (kW) is a flat rate.

      “I bought the solar panel generator from Project Solar and the customer service was excellent. I love my product. They give you a portable cart that tows the product to make it easier to move around and the handle on mine broke. I asked if I could have it repaired or replaced and they sent me the whole carry container on wheels to replace it. It took a week which was quicker than I anticipated. The product gives me the security of knowing that I can go in the woods or go without electricity and be able to use my devices for an amount of time.” — Lisa on Hilton Head Island

      The focus on streamlining might mean fewer customization options or solutions for complex roof situations. There’s also always the possibility of delays. “The delivery time was a little long, but other than that, it was all right,” Terry in Taylors told us.

      Project Solar specializes in professional and DIY solar panel installations. Systems incorporate equipment from reputable brands like Qcells, Canadian Solar, Jinko and Enphase. As part of the full-service installation, it offers Enphase IQ 5P or Tesla Powerwall batteries. DIY projects only have the Enphase IQ 5P option.

      Project Solar services

      • System design
      • Equipment procurement
      • Pro and DIY installations
      • Financing solutions

      Project Solar provides a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 10-year workmanship warranty. The manufacturer’s warranty covers equipment defects, and the workmanship warranty covers issues like faulty wiring or improper mounting. There is also an 84% production level guarantee for 25 years.

      Project Solar partners with a few lenders to offer two main financing options for professional solar installations.

      Pros

      • Transparent pricing
      • Streamlined installations
      • Great for cost savings
      • Roof-leak warranty

      Cons

      • Subcontracted installers
      • No in-house financing
      Our pick for solar leases
      Sunrun
      Sunrun
      4.2
      3,062 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      22%
      Workmanship warranty
      10 years
      Year founded
      2007
      Get Started Read Reviews

      Sunrun’s leasing program is an excellent way to get solar panels without the huge upfront investment. You don't have to pay for the solar equipment, installation, permitting or financing costs. We also like that systems are customized based on your energy use history, roof space and design preferences.

      “Sunrun's installation crew were really good and knowledgeable. I'm really satisfied with my system so far. My bill went down from $560 and I got a bill that was $88. It's been going down ever since.” — Myron in Columbia

      Jim in Columbia said there was “a little hiccup” during the installation: “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.”

      Others felt misled by sales representatives, saying that promises of free removal of panels and lower bills were inaccurate or exaggerated. It might also be harder to sell your house with a solar lease, since the buyer will have to take over the agreement.

      Sunrun sells and leases solar panel and battery systems in South Carolina and other states. The company uses an automated site modeling tool that profiles roof characteristics like shading, pitch and sun exposure.

      Sunrun services

      • Energy consultations
      • Daily system monitoring
      • Solar storage battery options
      • EV charging solutions

      For those who purchase a solar system, Sunrun's warranty covers equipment replacements and repairs, including parts and labor, for 25 years. The company provides free maintenance and repairs on leased solar systems.

      • Lease: Sunrun technically owns the system, and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use it. Lease agreements typically last 25 years.
      • Loan: As of publishing, available discounts include $0 down for some financing plans.
      • Cash: You can pay for everything upfront.

      Pros

      • Flexible payment options
      • Custom solar designs
      • Comprehensive warranty coverage
      • 15-plus years of experience

      Cons

      • Some communication issues
      • Some billing problems

      South Carolina solar panel buyers guide

      A typical solar panel installation costs between $8,995 to $25,700, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for. That’s a lot of money for most South Carolina homeowners. Let’s make sure that your installation is reliable, efficient and suitable for South Carolina’s climate.

      Key insights

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage. The average cost per watt in South Carolina is $2.57.

      Jump to insight

      The federal investment tax credit (ITC) is the best solar incentive for most homeowners in South Carolina.

      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

      What to look for in a solar company in South Carolina

      In our experience, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common: great reviews, transparent contracts, reliable equipment and comprehensive warranties. Watch out for door-to-door solar scams. Some solar reps might use pushy sales tactics, and you could end up with monthly bills higher than expected.

      • Check certifications: All residential solar installers need a residential builder’s specialty registration with an electrical classification, according to the South Carolina Energy Office. We also suggest hiring NABCEP-certified installers. This shows you the company takes its business seriously.
      • Read reviews: Research the company's track record and read reviews. Look out for red flags: Complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication are common themes in negative solar company reviews.
      • Get quotes: Get multiple solar quotes to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others (this may indicate lower quality).
      • Ask questions: Consider whether you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or a monitoring system to ensure optimal output. It’s also smart to ask about critter guards in most parts of South Carolina.
      • Read the fine print: Carefully review proposals and financials, understand legal considerations, and ask about maintenance before signing an agreement with any solar company. Make sure you understand everything about the payment terms, warranty and ongoing services.

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

      Average solar panel costs in South Carolina typically range between $8,995 and $25,700.

      The size of your solar system plays a big role in how much it costs overall. A typical South Carolina house needs a 10.33 kW (kilowatt) system to cover its energy needs. The price also varies depending on which installer you hire and if you need a solar storage battery. Solar storage battery costs are sometimes almost as high as the panels, but they’re a must if you want real energy independence and essential if you go off-grid.

      Average solar installation cost by system size in South Carolina

      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. Another option is using a home equity line of credit or loan.

      Alternatively, you can lease solar panels. There are pros and cons to leasing. It’s sometimes cheaper in the short term, but you’ll be disqualified from some of the best financial incentives, including the federal solar investment tax credit.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Solar incentives in South Carolina

      Residents can take advantage of federal and state tax credits. The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of the cost of your solar energy system. For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $15,000 in taxes, the ITC reduces what you owe to $12,000.

      The ITC drops to 26% in 2033 and then 22% in 2034.

      You can also claim a 25% personal tax credit on your state taxes. The maximum credit is $3,500, or 50% of your tax liability, whichever is less. Like the ITC, it rolls over to the next tax year if you don’t use the full amount.

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

      » GREENEST STATES: South Carolina ranked 15th in 2024

      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 $62,231 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.

      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.

      At the end of the day, going solar isn’t just a green move. It’s also a smart money move. 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.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      FAQ

      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?

      What’s the difference between a solar broker and a solar installer?

      A solar broker is a middleman or intermediary who helps connect homeowners with solar installation companies. A solar installer specializes in designing, procuring and installing solar panels and related components.

      Ultimately, deciding between a solar broker and a solar installer depends on how much you want to be involved in the process. A broker can be helpful if you value convenience. If you want more control and potentially lower costs, it’s best to work directly with a solar installer.

      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.

      Methodology

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. For this guide, we objectively weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%

      We analyzed solar company reviews by verified solar customers to gauge real-world satisfaction. Companies with generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect. Those with the most 4- and 5-star reviews by verified South Carolina customers were given preference.

      Warranties: 20%

      A long warranty is important — it shows that a company stands behind its products and services. We compared companies on both equipment and craftsmanship warranty terms. All of our top picks for professional installation have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      Equipment selection: 20%

      We evaluated each company’s selection of solar panels, storage batteries and inverters. Those with proprietary technology or a wide equipment selection from trusted brands ranked highest.

      Financing and payment options: 10%

      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      Reputation and local experience: 10%

      We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in South Carolina. Solar is a booming industry, and there are some sketchy installers out there. Company history, current reputation, mission and values were also considered.

      Our goal is to highlight solar companies that are best equipped to meet most South Carolinians’s needs. The team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      • Freedom Solar Power
      • Project Solar
      • Sunrun

      Not sure how to choose?

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        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 article include:

        1. DSIRE, "South Carolina Programs.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
        2. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in South Carolina." Accessed March 29, 20
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), "South Carolina Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in South Carolina, 2024?" Accessed March 29, 2024.
        5. Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed May 22, 2024.
        6. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics.” Accessed Feb. 8, 2024.

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