Residential Solar

  The operation of a solar system is quite simple. Solar panels convert sunlight into usable energy for your home or business. An inverter changes DC electricity to AC and sends it to your main breaker panel to power loads directly. Battery Storage is optional for Off-Grid applications or Emergency Power during outages. Excess power passes through a Bi-Directional Meter and is sold to your utility provider for a credit on your account. 

You can save up to 90% off your electric bills. Facility fees will still apply, which include things like meter reading, line maintenance, and account administration. By installing solar you also protect yourself from rising energy cost due to inflation 

The cost of solar has declined substantially in the recent years. Total project cost vary depending on the quality of products used in the installation, overall size of the system, roof mounted or ground mounted, and if there are batteries for energy storage. Basic Grid-Tied Systems start around $3.00 per watt using conventional Tier 1 products. A renewable energy consultant will be able to design a customized system based around your goals, objectives and budget. 

Utilities have adopted individual policies pertaining to solar. Some aspects to consider are:  Rate schedules may vary due to time of use or demand, the size system that can installed may be restricted by usage,   The best way to get specific details about what you may be eligible for is to contact your utility or visit their website. There you will be able to find specific information about eligibility   

The Federal Tax Credit for solar is 26% of the total cost if installation. This is a dollar per dollar credit you can take against the amount you owe. There is no cap and it can be taken all at once. South Carolina offers a 25% Tax Credit that caps at $35,000 per project and can only be taken up to $3,500 per year for up to 10 years. Depreciation is also available to commercial consumers, which can save another 15-25% depending on the tax bracket.   

There are several different module manufactures including name brands like LG and Panasonic. Products generally described as “Conventional” or “High Efficiency” and are graded on a Tier structure, Tier 1 being the highest quality. High Efficiency products have a greater power density 

Solar makes sense if you own your own home, want to save money on your energy bills, and take advantage of financial incentives that may be available to you such as tax credits, depreciation, rebates, production based incentives, or even grants.