Best 5 Solar Companies in North Charleston, SC

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in North Charleston

The cost and efficiency of solar panels often rely on which company mounted them. Here are some important factors to keep in mind while shopping for a solar specialist.

Licensing and Training

South Carolina law draws a difference 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. Solar providers can also earn accreditations from standards organizations and trade groups. The top ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in North Charleston

Your solar panels' style will impact how much power you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels offer you a budget panel with a traditional design, but at the cost of less power generation. Thin-film panels are excellent for non-traditional roof shapes and cost the least, but don't work well for large residential installations.

Additional system add-ons, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will increase your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar company includes these additional features, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's crucial for you.

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

Financing Solar Energy in North Charleston

Choosing the right financing solution will influence your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include leases, power purchase agreements, loans, and cash payments. 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. Like a home or car loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $0 down. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) lets you pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the solar system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Look for companies that offer several payment plans to find the right fit for your budget.

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

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy equipment until the year 2032. Municipal and state governments and utility companies might also offer rebates, discounts, and unique financing solutions that could save you more.