Solar Incentives in Columbia, SC
Complete guide to solar tax credits, rebates, and incentive programs available to Columbia homeowners in 2026.
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost
Columbia homeowners can deduct 30% of the cost of installing a solar energy system from their federal taxes. This applies to all qualified solar installations in Columbia, SC.
South Carolina State Solar Incentives for Columbia Homeowners
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 in Columbia, SC
South Carolina requires investor-owned utilities to offer net metering at the full retail rate for residential solar systems up to 20 kW.
Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) in Columbia
South Carolina does not have a traditional SREC market, but the generous state tax credit provides strong financial incentives for solar adoption.
Tax Exemptions in Columbia
How to Claim Solar Incentives in Columbia
- Install your solar system: Work with a qualified Columbia solar installer to design and install your system.
- Claim the federal ITC: File IRS Form 5695 with your federal tax return to claim the 30% tax credit.
- Apply for state programs: Contact your South Carolina energy office or local Columbia utility to apply for available incentives.
- Set up net metering: Contact your utility in Columbia to set up net metering and start earning credits.
- Keep records: Save all receipts, contracts, and permits for tax filing and warranty purposes.
Solar Incentives FAQ - Columbia, SC
Columbia homeowners can take advantage of the 30% federal solar tax credit, plus 2 state-level incentive programs, net metering. These incentives can reduce your total solar cost by 30-50%.
The 30% federal tax credit alone can save Columbia homeowners approximately $5.0k on a typical system. Combined with South Carolina state programs, total savings over 25 years can reach $32k or more.
South Carolina requires investor-owned utilities to offer net metering at the full retail rate for residential solar systems up to 20 kW.
To claim the 30% federal ITC, Columbia homeowners need to file IRS Form 5695 with their annual tax return. The credit applies to the full cost of your solar system including equipment and installation. You must own the system (not lease it) to claim the credit.
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