Figure Out the Cost of Discount Solar Panels for Your South Carolina Home With This Purchase Guide
In recent years, South Carolina has passed legislation that’s favorable to renewable energy resources, including solar. This is great news for the environment, for the future and for you as a homeowner. These changes, as well as discount solar panels, make it easier and cheaper to take advantage of solar power for your home.
In 2019, the state passed the Energy Freedom Act that encourages solar photovoltaic (PV) and solar-plus battery storage. This adds to the advances made by the Distributed Energy Resources Program Act in 2014, which encourages renewable energy development in the state, mostly in the area of solar PV systems technology. This includes residential rooftop solar panels in addition to commercial solar panel systems. There’s no time like the present to go solar in South Carolina!
How Does Solar Energy Work in South Carolina?
Solar panels give a top form of renewable energy because they offer a reliable and effective method of turning sunlight into electricity. Solar panels are made up of rows of photovoltaic solar cells that each contain two layers of a semiconductive material, generally silicon.
The way it works is that the sun’s rays hit the semiconductive material, which causes the release of electrons. This release process creates electricity, which goes through wires to reach an inverter. Once there, it goes through a conversion from direct current (DC) electricity to alternating current (AC) electricity. Now it is in a form to power your residence. When you are part of a net metering program, your utility credits any surplus you may have. Otherwise, the surplus goes to the electric grid.
You have the option to connect solar panels to create more energy. The connection creates a solar array. The more you connect, the more electricity you can produce, which can be beneficial for a large house or extensive energy needs.
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in South Carolina?
You could expect to spend about $15,000 on the cost of a South Carolina solar energy system. In the state, the cost tends to range from about $13,000 to $18,000. The average cost per watt is $3.06, and the average size is 5 kW.
Nonetheless, homeowners can generally expect to save thousands of dollars from solar incentives like state and federal tax credits and solar rebates. Also, a solar array can end up paying for itself as soon as five to 10 years, so the cost of purchasing the system and installation can be well worth it.
Numerous factors can change the cost of solar panels in South Carolina. These include:
- The type of solar panel and the solar company it is purchased from
- Discount solar panels
- The contractor used for the installation
- Area labor costs
- Local peak sunlight hours
- Your home’s average energy usage
- The roof type, age and amount of space
- Financing costs
Why Do Solar Panels Make Sense for South Carolina Homeowners?
Adding solar panels to a residence makes good sense for South Carolina homeowners. Here are top reasons why:
Sunny days: This Southern state gets a good amount of sun, with an average of 216 sunny days per year. This is more than many states get and more than the national average of 205 days. This means you can expect plenty of sun to help your solar panels work effectively and give a great return on your investment.
Average electricity costs: South Carolina ranks third on the list of what U.S. states spend on their electricity bills. The amount of electric bills in the state is more than 20% higher than the national average! These numbers give good reason for homeowners to want to make the switch to solar and save money on their utility bills.
Boost your home’s value: An investment in solar energy is an investment in your home. Homes with solar installations generally sell faster and for more money. Energy.gov says that homeowners can make $15,000 more, although the actual amount can vary.
Affordability: Thankfully, the cost of solar has gone down in time. Incentives, new technology and competition in the field have significantly brought the price down, making this renewable energy more accessible for homeowners.
Are There Any South Carolina Solar Incentives?
To have a more comprehensive look at solar incentives in the state, check out our guide. South Carolina Solar Incentives: Tax Credits, Rebates, Grants, Programs.
Tax Credits
Homeowners have access to a South Carolina solar tax credit and the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). The state one lets you claim 25% of the purchase and installation, and the ITC allows 30%. You can claim both for extra savings.
Solar Rebates
The utility Santee Cooper offers a residential rebate of $1.05 per watt with a cap of $6,300. Also, you can check on rebates from your solar panel manufacturer.
Net Metering
The state has a net metering policy, which means your utility tracks your energy surplus and gives you credit for it. Your extra energy is saved in abundant times, and then you can use your credits when your solar power system is not making enough energy for your needs.
Homeowners can save by purchasing or leasing our Solar Energy World discount solar panels.
