CharlestonSolar Incentives 2026: Rebates, Tax Credits & Net Metering
Charleston homeowners stack the 30% federal tax credit with the 25% South Carolina state credit and Dominion Energy SC net metering. At 5.1 peak sun hours a day, a home with a $150/month bill (about 1,071 kWh) needs roughly a 8.8 kW system — 22 panels — and pays back in about 7.1 years.
Solar Incentives Available in Charleston
Solar incentives in Charleston come in three layers. First, every homeowner qualifies for the 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit on the full installed cost, claimed on IRS Form 5695. Second, South Carolina adds a 25% state income tax credit (up to $3,500) that stacks on top. Third, Dominion Energy SC sets the local rules for crediting the solar power you export.
Dominion Energy South Carolina offers net metering in Charleston, and South Carolina's 25% state tax credit is one of the largest in the country.
How Much Solar Charleston Homes Produce
Charleston gets 5.1 peak sun hours a day, so each 1 kW of panels produces about 1,489 kWh per year here. A 8.8 kW system — the size that fits a typical $150/month Dominion Energy SC bill — generates roughly 13,105 kWh annually, worth about $1,835 in avoided electricity in year one and more as rates rise.
Dominion Energy SC Net Metering in Charleston
Dominion Energy SC credits excess solar generation from Charleston homes under South Carolina's full retail-rate net metering (~100% of retail). A right-sized system can bring net annual electricity costs close to zero. See full South Carolina net metering rules →
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in Charleston?
At South Carolina's 2026 average of $2.85/watt, the 8.8 kW system most Charleston homes need runs about $25,080 before incentives. The 30% federal credit takes off $7,524, and the South Carolina state credit another $3,500 — landing the net cost near $14,056, with payback around 7.1 years.
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See your exact Charleston solar savings
Enter your Dominion Energy SC bill and we'll apply every South Carolina and federal incentive to your real numbers — system size, net cost, payback, and 25-year savings.