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8 best solar companies in Sumter, South Carolina
Josephine NesbitHome improvement writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Jun 22, 2024
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We've ranked the top 8 solar companies that operate within 50 miles of Sumter. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
High-quality solar panel installation in Sumter, South Carolina, requires hiring a solar installer that is certified, qualified and experienced. To help you find the right team, we’ve compiled a list of the best solar companies in Sumter.
Before selecting an installer, ask others for suggestions, review the installers you're considering and obtain quotes from multiple companies to find the one that is the best fit for your needs. You can go with a local solar company in Sumter or choose a well-known national brand.
- Extends a 25-year system warranty
- Includes upkeep services for leases
- Provides additional insurance coverage
- Extends 25-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Provides solar panel and battery installation
- Offers comprehensive financing
While installing solar panels requires a large initial investment, it can reduce your energy bills over time. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that transitioning to solar energy enables Sumter homeowners to save an average of $1,600 annually.
Solar companies do not all offer the same services and products. You should assess different companies and ask for quotes before booking your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Sumter
Look for Sumter solar companies that have a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars in customer ratings on Google Reviews and other review websites. The company should also have a high rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Reviewing previous customer testimonials can give insight into other homeowners' experiences dealing with the solar company. Frequent poor reviews are worth making a note of as a possible warning sign.
Renu Energy Solutions
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Sunpro Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Broker Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
South Coast Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Poly Energy
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
BroCo Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
SOLZA POWER - Solar + Roofing
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Southern Coker Power
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Sumter?
Homeowners in Sumter can benefit from solar energy since the area gets plenty of sunshine. The main reasons to consider solar panels include these:
- Save on energy bills: Going with solar energy enables you to lower your electricity bills. The power generated by solar panels replaces electricity that would otherwise be bought from utility providers.
- Reduce environmental impact: Adopting solar reduces your carbon footprint by conserving fossil fuels otherwise used to power your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), electricity production is one of the main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Charge an electric vehicle: You have the ability to power electric vehicles at home using solar panels. This provides the best assurance that your electric car is powered by clean, renewable energy.
Facts about Sumter
Monthly Energy Spending Per Capita
Clear Sky Days Per Year
Annual Solar Savings Per kW
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Sumter?
Based on a survey we carried out in October 2023, the median cost of upgrading to solar panels across the country is $11,743.
What you'll pay to install solar panels depends on factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof positioning, shading, system size and labor. The cost goes up if you choose any add-ons like solar trackers, animal guards or batteries.
In Sumter, solar panel installation costs around $19,119, based on data from the EIA, NASA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
How much can you save by going solar in Sumter?
Solar panel installation is a major initial investment, but you can expect to see considerable savings reflected in your energy bills after some time.
Money savings in Sumter from going solar
After fully switching to solar power, Sumter homeowners usually see cost savings. However, recouping the initial investment requires time, and elements like rain and tree shade affect the timeline for seeing returns on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The average payback period is the time it takes for a solar energy system to recover its initial cost. The payback period in Sumter is around 11 years, according to our calculations, which are based on data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), NASA and the EIA.
- Annual solar savings in Sumter: Sumter homeowners can expect to save about $1,631 annually on average by adopting solar power, according to our analysis of data from NASA, the Department of Energy and the EIA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Based on our data from the EIA and NASA, if you make the full switch to solar energy, you can expect to save around $25,704 over a 25-year period.
Energy savings in Sumter from going solar
Beyond cost savings, transitioning to solar power also decreases your carbon footprint and lowers your environmental impact. Provided below are the projected CO2 emission reductions you can expect from solar energy, as determined by our analysis of data from NASA and the EPA.
Best solar installation for you
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What solar incentives are available in Sumter?
There are several solar incentives available to homeowners in Sumter. Various programs extend to all South Carolina residents, while others are based on your city, utility company and municipality.
Per the DSIRE, here are the solar incentives available for South Carolina residents:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Rebate Program Duke Energy Progress - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Central A/C or Heat Pump: $300 - $400 + 50 with smart thermostat Geothermal Heat Pumps: $400 + 50 with smart thermostat Heat Pump Water Heater: $350 Attic Insulation & Air Sealing: $250 Duct Sealing: $100 Pool Pump: $300 |
Property Tax Incentive Renewable Energy and Energy Storage Property Tax Exemption | 100% exemption |
Rebate Program Santee Cooper - Rooftop Solar Rebate Program | Residential and Commercial: $1.05/W Non-Profit: $1.30/W |
Corporate Tax Credit Solar Energy, Small Hydropower, and Geothermal Tax Credit (Corporate) | 25% of eligible costs |
Personal Tax Credit Solar Energy, Small Hydropower, and Geothermal Tax Credit (Personal) | 25% of eligible costs |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels. |
What are common factors to consider before hiring a Sumter solar installer?
When selecting a professional solar panel installation company, first review these key considerations.
What size system do you need?
The size of your system relies on your household’s energy consumption and the solar panel system's production ratio. Larger households generally use more energy and may require a larger system. If the system isn’t big enough, it may lack enough energy to power your entire house.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Required permits and local or state codes could impact your solar project. Be sure to secure necessary permits through your local building department and plan an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all homes receive the same amount of sunlight. Nearby trees, precipitation and severe weather can affect sunlight access. If your property doesn’t get sufficient sunlight, then you may need extra panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
A solar battery allows the storage of extra power in solar panel systems. This becomes incredibly helpful when you're trying to prevent power loss in overcast weather conditions. Incorporating battery storage might bump up the cost of installation.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
Several solar panel varieties are available, each varying in design, life expectancy and efficiency. These factors affect pricing, the rate of panel replacement and the amount of roof space you'll need.
Our methodology for selecting solar companies
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
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