The 7 Best Solar Companies in South Carolina To Save You Money

Solar power is an increasingly attractive option for South Carolina homeowners looking to take control of their energy costs. With an average of 215 sunny days per year [1], there is tremendous solar potential across the Palmetto State. Fortunately, harnessing this free renewable source is now more affordable than ever thanks to decreasing solar installation costs and favorable net metering policies.

This guide will highlight the top seven solar companies in South Carolina based on affordability, product quality, warranties, expertise and more. We‘ll summarize what makes each company stand out, along with key considerations for deciding which is best for your home. With the right solar installer, you can maximize savings while reducing your environmental impact.

Why Go Solar in South Carolina?

Before highlighting the top solar providers, let‘s review the benefits of switching to solar in the first place:

Abundant Sunshine: South Carolina averages between 4.5 to 5.5 hours of peak sun per day, even in winter months [2]. This makes it well-suited for solar arrays to effectively capture sunlight.

Net Metering: South Carolina is one of 40 states with favorable net metering laws [3]. This enables solar customers to get credit for excess energy fed back to the grid, reducing monthly electric bills.

Federal Tax Credits: Homeowners can claim a 26% tax credit off total system costs in 2023, dropping incrementally to 22% for systems installed in 2024 [4].

Property Value Increase: Installing solar panels can increase a home‘s resale value. One study found they add an average of 4.1% to a property‘s overall value [5].

Utility Bill Savings: Electricity rates have increased by 5% in South Carolina year-over-year [6]. Solar allows homeowners to secure low, fixed energy rates for decades.

With the benefits clear, let‘s look at seven of the top solar companies in SC.

#1 Best Overall: South Coast Solar

For homeowners wanting superb efficiency and proven reliability, our top overall pick is South Coast Solar.

As a SunPower Master Dealer, South Coast exclusively installs the highest-efficiency solar panels available today [7]. Compared to conventional panels, SunPower offers:

Efficiency ratings of over 22% versus 16-18% from budget panels
40+ year expected lifetime with 0.25% degradation rate
One of the best product and power warranties: 25 years coverage

Greater efficiency means you can meet your energy needs with fewer panels. For homeowners with limited roof space, SunPower is an ideal solution. Their systems can eliminate electric bills with room to spare for future expansion.

South Coast also holds an A+ BBB rating and is a NABCEP-certified installer [8]. Customers routinely praise their professionalism and attention to detail.

The one downside is that higher-tier products come at a cost. SunPower panels demand a premium price, putting them out of reach for some budgets. However, with outstanding electric bill savings over decades of operation, the long-term ROI makes up for the initial price tag.

Key Features

Exclusive SunPower Dealer, the highest efficiency solar panels available
Superior efficiency ratings, warranties, degradation rates, and expected lifetime
Industry-best installation practices from NABCEP certified professionals
Eliminate electric bills with high performing, durable systems
Higher cost but excellent long-term return-on-investment

#2 Most Affordable: Blue Raven Solar

For budget-focused homeowners seeking relief from rising electricity costs, Blue Raven Solar is our recommendation. Their exclusive SunPower panels deliver premium quality at competitive pricing.

Homeowners short on cash need not be deterred thanks to Blue Raven‘s BluePower+ Financing. This offers approved applicants zero money down and 0% interest for the first 18 months [9]. Fixed low rates follow to keep costs predictable long-term.

Their focus makes the process simple for customers. You get a custom SunPower solar array and monitoring app allowing you to track production. However, their streamlined approach means fewer options for add-ons like battery storage or EV chargers.

Still, with SunPower‘s recognized quality and Blue Raven‘s financing plans, cost savings are likely. Some customers have reported electric bills dropping from $200+ per month to $12 after installing their new systems!

Key Features

Most affordable SunPower solar panels
Generous financing options: 0% interest for 18 months
Simple process from consultation to install
Limited customization options beyond solar array
Delivers premium quality hardware with budget friendly pricing

#3 Best Warranty: ADT Solar

ADT Solar installs tier-one solar modules matched with a 25-year comprehensive warranty, earning our pick for best coverage. Their Legacy Service Program includes:

➜ Labor Coverage: Protects against defects from installation or structural failures.

➜ Performance Guarantee: Compensates homeowners if actual power output falls below guaranteed production levels.

➜ Equipment Warranty: Covers against faulty components or manufacturing defects in panels and parts.

With bank-level financing, most out-of-pocket expenses can be eliminated. Instead, your new solar array pays for itself over time through direct energy savings. Custom battery storage solutions are also available for increased independence.

Note that while its national scale delivers good pricing, some customers report communication issues during installations. Overall though, ADT earns strong reviews and makes solar adoption worry-free thanks to robust warranty protection.

Key Features

25-year comprehensive coverage including labor, performance guarantees, equipment
Flexible financing programs to eliminate most out-of-pocket expenses
Battery storage add-ons available for increased energy independence
National company offers good rates but some localized service issues

#4 Most Trustworthy: Renu Energy Solutions

Trusted by major universities, corporations and non-profits across the Carolinas, Renu Energy Solutions delivers large-scale solar projects with boutique-level service.

For homeowners seeking custom packages backed by solar experts, Renu is a great fit. Their tailor-made systems can include SunPower panels for efficiency, integrated batteries by leading brands like Tesla and Generac, and even electric vehicle charging.

Renu holds an A+ BBB rating and is a certified B Corp, meeting rigorous standards for social and environmental performance [10]. Customers routinely recognize their exceptional service and expertise.

With experience across sectors and project sizes, homeowners can trust Renu has the demonstrated capability to fulfill their solar wishes. The only downside is that custom solutions come at a cost. Expect to pay a premium over basic installations. However, you get what you pay for with their highly-customizable solar and backup power options.

Key Features

Custom solar systems tailored to your specific home needs
Panels, batteries, EV charging – whatever you need
A+ BBB rating and B Corp certified for environmental dedication
Specializes in residential but proven experience on major commercial projects
Premium pricing but delivers a bespoke, high-quality end product

#5 Most Comprehensive: Elevation Solar

Choosing Elevation Solar means getting a whole-home energy upgrade, not just solar panels.

Their comprehensive Home Performance Assessment examines all aspects of your home‘s energy efficiency first. This includes an insulation inspection, door/window caulking analysis, roof evaluation and custom energy bill analysis.

By sealing drafty leaks and addressing efficiency issues first, Elevation ensures your new solar array is properly sized – no more, no less. The average home requires 2-5 fewer solar panels after efficiency measures are addressed.

Elevation‘s Curb home energy monitoring also gives you 24/7 insight into solar production and home energy use. This combination of efficiency plus solar means you get the maximum bang for your buck.

Our one qualm: the warranty duration is 20 years, lower than some competitors. However, the bundled energy efficiency services make Elevation Solar a great comprehensive choice.

Key Features

Whole-home energy assessment identifies savings opportunities
Custom solar system sized after efficiency upgrades
Curb energy monitoring tracks solar production and usage
Bundled approach provides very thorough energy optimization
Lower 20-year warranty but higher overall home performance

#6 Best Leasing: Sunrun

Instead of purchasing solar panels, Sunrun offers monthly leasing. This reaches homeowners unable to finance or take on ownership responsibilities.

Sunrun handles everything when you lease:

➜ Initial design and installation

➜ Maintenance, repairs and monitoring

➜ Roof or property alterations if needed in the future

Rates are fixed, so even as utilities increase costs you‘ll pay the same predictable amount. Rate hike protection gives peace of mind against rising electricity prices.

For renters or homeowners uncertain about staying long-term but seeking energy savings now, Sunrun presents an outstanding solution.

Just note: leased equipment must stay with the property. So if moving in less than six years, buying may still be preferable for taking panels with you.

Key Features

Solar leasing keeps costs low and predictable
Sunrun handles maintenance, repairs, etc…
Rate hike protection locks in affordable pricing
Perfect for renters or short-term owners
Leased equipment remains on-property if moving

#7 Best For Off-Grid: Broker Solar

A solar grid tie feeds excess electricity back to the main utility lines. For total independence, Broker Solar specializes in off-grid, hybrid systems instead.

Their solar arrays combine robust battery banks, high-capacity inverters and charge controllers. This keeps your home powered 24/7, free from the main grid.

Off-grid living needs ample storage to supply electricity around the clock, including overnight and stormy stretches. Broker‘s hybrid system expertise makes self-reliance achievable.

Home automation upgrades can further bolster savings. Broker Solar’s smart home tech seamlessly limits household usage during peak solar generation times. For grid defectors seeking true self-sufficiency, Broker Solar delivers.

Key Features

Specialized in DIY and off-grid solar systems
Creates hybrid arrays: solar panels + battery banks
Home automation to optimize self-consumption
Delivers full home energy independence
Helps navigate legal/permitting process for off-grid projects

How To Save Money On Solar In South Carolina

With any major home improvement, it‘s smart to explore savings opportunities. Here are money-saving tips for your solar installation:

Federal Tax Credits

Don‘t miss out on claiming the 26% federal solar tax credit before it expires in 2034. This deduction delivers major savings for solar owners. South Carolina also offers additional solar incentives.

Shop Around For Quotes

Like any major purchase, compare proposals from multiple installers. Given the 25+ year lifespan of solar equipment, priority #1 is getting quality gear. But with the range of products meeting tier-one standards, pricing can vary.

Go Solar With Your Neighbors

See if your neighborhood can organize a group discount. Solar installers may offer better rates if they can do multiple nearby homes at once.

Prepay Or Purchase Outright

Avoid financing costs by buying equipment outright or prepaying a portion upfront. This cuts into lifetime interest costs. Compare the breakeven point to decide.

Consider Panel Efficiency

More efficient solar panels require less roof space for the same output. Though premium products like SunPower cost more initially, the reduced number of panels ultimately needed saves money long-run.

Key Considerations For Choosing A Solar Company

With South Carolina’s solar market expanding, new installation companies are emerging. To identify the most qualified partners, look for:

NABCEP Certification

The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) [11] remains the gold standard for solar credentials. NABCEP certification verifies installers have met rigorously tested competency standards. Steer clear of any company lacking certified technicians.

BBB Rating

Check reviews on the Better Business Bureau when researching installers [12]. Positive ratings confirm their business ethics and customer satisfaction track record.

Warranty Coverage

A 25-year system warranty is ideal for protecting your investment. Be sure performance and labor issues are addressed too, not only hardware defects.

Flexible Financing

Find an installer offering financing plans tailored to your budget. From low rates to zero money down, creative payment structures make adoption affordable.

Prioritizing these factors helps single out the most reputable, experienced solar installers for your project.

Is Solar Worth It In South Carolina?

The solar energy potential in South Carolina is tremendous thanks to plentiful sun exposure across the state along with favorable net metering policies from utilities. As electricity rates rise approximately 5% annually and solar panel costs decrease, the case for switching to solar strengthens.

Based on average solar installation figures for South Carolina, break-even periods are extremely competitive:

5-7 Years for Premium Systems
7-10 Years For Budget Systems

These periods are well within the 25+ year working life of equipment. And with incentives like the 26% federal tax credit available through 2034, payback times shorten further. Forward-looking homeowners positioning themselves today for decades of consistent electricity savings.

Let The Solar Savings Begin

Abundant sun makes solar power an obvious solution for South Carolina energy consumers seeking relief from rising electricity costs. As panel and battery efficiencies continue improving while prices drop, adoption becomes more economically enticing each year.

We hope this review of the top solar energy companies in South Carolina gives you a starting point to explore options applicable to your property. By selecting one of the certified, reputable organizations profiled above, you are sure to benefit from significant utility savings while also taking charge of your energy future. Here‘s to many sunny days ahead going solar!

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