Solar Panel Guide for Upstate Roofs — SC Tax Credits & Net Metering
SC averages 213 sunny days/yr. Federal 26% tax credit + SC 25% credit (capped $3,500) = 40–50% offset. Duke Energy net metering lets you sell excess power back.
South Carolina is the 16th sunniest state in the country — 213 sunny days a year on average, most of them in the Upstate. A rooftop solar installation on a Spartanburg home pays back in 8-12 years with current tax credits, and 15-18 years without them. The tax credits are the whole game.
Federal tax credit
The federal Residential Clean Energy Credit covers 30% of total system cost (as of 2026). It’s a dollar-for-dollar reduction of federal income tax owed — not a deduction. Unused credit rolls forward.
South Carolina tax credit
SC offers a separate 25% state credit on qualifying solar installations, capped at $3,500 per household. Stacks with the federal credit. Typical Spartanburg installation of 6-8 kW runs $18,000-$24,000 gross; after both credits, net cost is closer to $9,000-$12,000.
Net metering
Duke Energy Carolinas runs a net metering program for SC residential customers. Excess generation during the day rolls forward as credit on the bill at the retail rate (as of current tariff). The meter spins backward in June; you draw from the credit in November.
Roof orientation
South-facing is ideal in the Upstate. West-facing is second best. East works. North-facing doesn’t pay back — don’t let an installer sell you panels on a north roof. Get two quotes from SC-licensed solar contractors before committing.