North Carolina vs South Carolina Solar Incentives: Which State Gets the Better Deal?
Side-by-side comparison of North Carolina and South Carolina solar incentive programs in 2026: state tax credits, net metering rules, exemptions, payback period, and projected 25-year savings.
| Metric | NC · North Carolina | SC · South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Monthly Bill | $165 | $170 |
| Peak Sun Hours / Day | 5 | 5 |
| Avg $/Watt Installed | $2.85 | $2.85 |
| State Tax Credit | None | 25% / $3500 ◆ |
| Net Metering | retail | retail |
| SREC Market | No | No |
| Property Tax Exempt | Yes | No |
| Sales Tax Exempt | No | No |
| Avg Payback (yrs) | 8.1 | 7.9 ◆ |
| Avg 25-Year Savings | $38,900 | $40,200 ◆ |
State Tax Credit Comparison
North Carolina offers no state income tax credit. South Carolina offers a 25% credit (capped at $3,500).
Net Metering Policies
North Carolina: retail rate net metering active. South Carolina: retail rate net metering active.
Net metering is often the most economically significant solar policy because it determines how excess production is valued. Retail-rate states (where you receive full retail price for exported energy) have substantially better solar economics than avoided-cost or no-net-metering states.
Average 25-Year Savings
North Carolina: $38,900 over 25 years (avg payback 8.1 yrs). South Carolina: $40,200 over 25 years (avg payback 7.9 yrs).
Verdict: Which State Wins on Solar?
South Carolina delivers stronger lifetime solar economics than North Carolina due to a larger state tax credit.
Note: state averages mask significant within-state variation. Your specific utility, roof orientation, and household electricity profile drive your actual numbers — use the calculator to model your home directly.