Solar Panel Cost in South Carolina (2026)
In South Carolina, home solar installs for roughly $2.60/watt in 2026. A typical 8 kW system runs about $20,800, with an estimated payback near 11.6 years at the state's ~16¢/kWh electricity rate.
| System size | Est. cost | Est. annual savings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $15,600 | $1,300/yr | 11.6 yrs |
| 8 kW | $20,800 | $1,800/yr | 11.6 yrs |
| 11 kW | $28,600 | $2,500/yr | 11.6 yrs |
Estimates use ~$2.60/watt installed and South Carolina's ~16¢/kWh rate. Before any state/local incentives.
South Carolina solar notes
South Carolina adopted the Solar Choice net-metering tariff (time-of-use with export credits) after its prior 1:1 program hit caps, alongside a 25% state tax credit.
Heads up: the 30% federal tax credit for purchased home solar ended Dec 31, 2025. Leased/PPA systems may still qualify through 2027, and South Carolina may offer its own incentives — check locally.
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