Solar Panel Cost Guide in North Charleston, SC (2024 Update)
- North Charleston Solar Installation Cost: $18,301
- 25-Year Savings: $32,150
- Payback Period: 9.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in North Charleston
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in North Charleston.
In North Charleston, solar panels cost about 3 per watt on average.Using this figure, a typical 7.6-kW system would cost about $18,301 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average North Charleston homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $25,000 over 20 years on power bills.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in North Charleston
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,560 |
| 3 years | $-13,080 |
| 5 years | $-9,599 |
| 7 years | $-6,118 |
| 9 years | $-2,637 |
| 11 years | $844 |
| 13 years | $4,324 |
| 15 years | $7,805 |
| 17 years | $11,286 |
| 19 years | $14,767 |
| 21 years | $18,248 |
| 23 years | $21,728 |
| 25 years | $25,209 |
Top Solar Installers in North Charleston
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra energy and knowledge. That's why almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Another great thing about using a top solar installer is that it'll likely provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your investment.
Working with a licensed solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Outstanding Regional Installer
Renu Energy Solutions
- Excellent reputation
- Many financing options
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in North Charleston
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in North Charleston
Although the average cost of a solar system in North Charleston is $18,301, your actual cost may differ. There are quite a few factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power generation need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,450.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you’re looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many North Charleston homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar system can affect your pricing. North Charleston’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It’s best to do some research and go with the company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also fits within your budget.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.59 | $15,070 | $21,809 | 10.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.52 | $19,706 | $29,465 | 10.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.45 | $24,150 | $37,314 | 9.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.38 | $28,400 | $45,357 | 9.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.31 | $32,458 | $53,593 | 9.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.24 | $36,322 | $62,022 | 9.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.17 | $39,992 | $70,644 | 9.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.11 | $43,470 | $79,459 | 8.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you should know with your solar company, such as what permits you should acquire and how long the project will take.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Review the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the overall cost, project timeline rebates and warranties.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Outstanding Regional Installer
Renu Energy Solutions
- Excellent reputation
- Many financing options
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's North Charleston, SC Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in North Charleston?
The average cost of solar panels in North Charleston is about $17,250 for a 5-kW system and $34,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in North Charleston?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you don’t have access to many solar incentives. Also your home value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.
Do solar panels increase the value of your home?
Solar panels can increase your property’s value remarkably as long as you buy or finance your panels and don’t opt for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% after installing solar panels."
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.