Best 5 Solar Companies in Goose Creek, SC

Goose Creek homeowners are committed to protecting the environment and practicing eco-friendly lifestyles. That's why many people are purchasing panels from the top solar companies for their homes. While switching to solar energy comes with upfront costs, local homeowners could ultimately save $1,200 per kilowatt on their electric bills. A professional installation team can help you choose the best panels to maximize your savings. On this page, we'll highlight Goose Creek's most reputable solar contractors and share valuable advice for your solar journey.

Ranking Methodology

Our team focuses on the following criteria to assess the best Goose Creek solar companies.

• Certifications and credentials: Each installer on our list meets state and city licensing requirements and stays up to date with industry best practices. Many of them have served the Goose Creek community for more than a decade.
• Panel brands and quality: The best solar companies keep up with new technology, providing equipment from innovative, dependable manufacturers.
• Educational programs and business model: Solar technicians must be knowledgeable. They should tap into their years of experience address your questions on how to look after your system and optimize its performance.
• Customer feedback and reviews: Most Goose Creek solar providers have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio demonstrates a company's trustworthiness and responsiveness to issues.
• Warranty and service offerings: Solar providers should stand behind their systems and services with warranties. We evaluated how each installer responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on promptness and customer satisfaction.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy has multiple advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

• Reduced energy costs: Sourcing some or all of your own power will spend less on electricity long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that make it possible for you to sell your unused energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
• Reduced carbon footprint: Embracing solar is a surefire way to reduce your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
• Better energy independence: Adding a battery storage system lets you have trustworthy energy during storms and grid outages.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Goose Creek Homeowners?

The state of South Carolina offers numerous solar incentives to help reduce your solar system costs. Here's a breakdown of eligible solar programs where you live.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Goose Creek

The purchase price and efficacy of solar panels often hinge on the solar company that mounted them. Make your choice based on the following vital factors.

Licensing and Training

South Carolina differentiates between mechanical and general contractors for solar energy work. Licensed mechanical contractors can install or repair any solar PV system rated for between 50 and 600 volts if they have an electrical Certificate of Authorization. If a company installs solar thermal systems, they need a Certificate of Authorization in plumbing and a supervising licensed plumber on their team. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private certifications. Two of the most recognized are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer certificates, granted by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.

Cost of Solar Panels in Goose Creek

The type of solar panels you choose dictates how much electricity you can produce. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't recommended for large residential installations, but they are ideal for small projects like converting RVs and sheds.

If you need to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in inclement weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By selecting the right components, you can make your system more productive and convenient to use. Not all solar contractors provide these optional components, so look for a company that sells them if it's essential for you.

You can expect to pay about $17,250 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Goose Creek. Check the table in this section to get an idea of the amount Goose Creek solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.

Financing Solar Energy in Goose Creek

Choosing the best financing plan will impact your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include leases, loans, cash payments, and power purchase agreements. Most solar experts recommend paying cash or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand a large up-front sum, but they help you avoid paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Similar to a home or car loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly fee to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in particular circumstances. We recommend working with an installer that offers multiple financing options. Talk to each consultant about what's available, and obtain more than one estimate for the best odds of staying within your spending limits.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Goose Creek.

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar power systems until the year 2032. Local and state governments and utility companies might also offer rebates, discounts, and dedicated financing plans that could save you more.

Sources

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
• U.S. Department of Energy