Solar Panel Cost in Columbia, SC
Updated 2026 guide to solar panel prices, savings, and payback period in Columbia.
Estimated Solar Savings
Solar Panel System Costs in Columbia, SC
Below are estimated costs for different solar panel system sizes in Columbia, including the 30% federal solar tax credit.
| System Size | Cost Before Incentives | Federal Tax Credit (30%) | Net Cost | Est. Annual Production |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 kW | $11,000 | -$3,300 | $7,700 | 7,008 kWh |
| 6 kWMost Popular | $16,500 | -$4,950 | $11,550 | 10,512 kWh |
| 8 kW | $22,000 | -$6,600 | $15,400 | 14,016 kWh |
| 10 kW | $27,500 | -$8,250 | $19,250 | 17,520 kWh |
| 12 kW | $33,000 | -$9,900 | $23,100 | 21,024 kWh |
What Affects Solar Panel Cost in Columbia?
The average cost of solar panels in Columbia, SC is approximately $275/watt before incentives. For a typical 6kW residential system, that means a total cost of about $16,500 before the federal tax credit.
After applying the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), your net cost drops to approximately $11,550.Columbia homeowners typically see a payback period of 8 years and save an estimated $32,000 over 25 years.
Factors that affect your cost in Columbia:
- System size: Larger systems cost more but have a lower cost per watt
- Equipment quality: Premium panels and inverters cost more but offer better efficiency
- Roof complexity: Steep roofs, multiple levels, or shading can increase installation costs
- Local labor rates: Installation costs vary within the Columbia metro area
- Local permits: Permitting costs and requirements vary by municipality in Columbia
- Incentives: State and local programs can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost
Solar Incentives Available in Columbia
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit
30% Federal Tax Credit (ITC)
South Carolina homeowners can stack the 30% federal ITC with the state solar tax credit for combined savings of up to 55%.
State & Local Incentives
South Carolina Solar Tax Credit
Tax CreditSouth Carolina offers a state income tax credit of 25% for solar installations, one of the most generous state credits in the nation.
Net Metering
Net MeteringSouth Carolina requires utilities to offer net metering for residential solar customers.
Net Metering
South Carolina requires investor-owned utilities to offer net metering at the full retail rate for residential solar systems up to 20 kW.
AvailableSRECs
South Carolina does not have a traditional SREC market, but the generous state tax credit provides strong financial incentives for solar adoption.
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Top Solar Companies in Columbia, SC
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Solar Panel Cost FAQ - Columbia, SC
The average cost of solar panels in Columbia is approximately $2.75 per watt before incentives. A typical 6kW residential system costs about $16,500 before the 30% federal tax credit, bringing the net cost to around $11,550.
The typical payback period for solar panels in Columbia is approximately 8 years. After that, you'll enjoy free electricity for the remaining 15-20+ years of your system's life, saving an estimated $32,000 over 25 years.
Columbia homeowners can take advantage of the 30% federal solar tax credit, which reduces your system cost by 30%. South Carolina also offers net metering, and various state-level incentive programs. Check our incentives page for the complete list.
Columbia homeowners can save an estimated $32,000 over 25 years by going solar. Actual savings depend on your electricity usage, system size, roof orientation, and available incentives. With electricity rates averaging $0.13/kWh in South Carolina, solar provides significant long-term savings.
Solar Costs in Other South Carolina Cities
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