South Carolina Solar Contractors

Solar Rebates: South Carolina

As in so many other states, South Carolina has been busy working on renewable energy policy. Apparently 2007 was the year the solar movement began for many state legislatures. South Carolina is no exception. It was 2007 when they instituted solar tax credits and a grant program for solar demonstration projects. South Carolina has made some strides in solar's direction, but could more be done? Let's find out. Here is what South Carolinians are offered for their solar electricity systems:

TAX CREDITS & EXEMPTIONS

Solar Energy Tax Credit (Personal)

• Solar hot water systems, solar space heating and cooling, and photovoltaic systems are all eligible for this state tax credit.
• 25% of the cost is eligible, equal to $3,500 or 50% of a person's tax liability; whichever is less.

LOANS & GRANTS

Renewable Energy Revolving Loan Program

• Homeowners that wish to install a PV or solar hot water system may be eligible for a state loan of up to $250,000 (up to 50% of total project costs).
• Loans must be approved by the South Carolina Renewable Energy Oversight Committee and the program is administered by the SC Dept. of Agriculture.
• Interest rates must not exceed the Wall Street Journal prime interest rate.

REBATES & INCENTIVES

Residential Solar Initiative for EarthCraft Homes Rebate

• In an effort to promote solar hot water systems, the SC legislature offers homebuilders a $1,000 rebate for each EarthCraft-approved home built with a new solar water heating system.
• The budget for the program, however, is only $20,000.

NET METERING

• As of now, South Carolina has no state net metering rules. Two utilities, Duke Energy and Progress Energy, offer their own net metering programs for customers.
• The state does have set interconnection standards for net-metered systems.

Among South Carolina's larger steps to promote solar energy is the solar tax credits. These, however, are just a step. There are still some holes in the overall plan; some tax exemptions would be a nice supplement to the tax credits. A uniform net metering policy is essential (perhaps even a feed-in tariff). South Carolina and all U.S. states have an excellent opportunity to thrust solar power into the spotlight, since the extension and revision of federal tax credits. Perhaps the 2009 legislative session will be as productive as 2007...let's hope so.

USEFUL LINKS

• South Carolina Energy Office
• Public Service Commission
• DSIRE: South Carolina
• South Carolina Solar Contractors