Solar energy uses the light from the sun to produce power. Solar energy technologies include solar heating, solar photovoltaics, solar thermal electricity, and others.

SOLAR.SC.GOV

The Energy Office maintains the SOLAR.SC.GOV website, sharing solar information with South Carolina stakeholders, consumers, and businesses. Funding for this website was partially provided through a SunShot National Laboratory Multiyear Partnership (SuNLaMP) grant.

For more information on solar in South Carolina, visit SOLAR.SC.GOV.

Public Entities and Solar Energy

Public entities are challenged by not being able to take advantage of federal and state tax incentives. Because of this situation, many public entities engage in solar leasing and additional third-party options. Additionally, public entities are encouraged to partner with other public entities and businesses in a solar project. Larger projects cost less per watt than smaller installations. This can be a more economical way to add renewables to the generation mix. Use the Energy Saver Tool to find additional funding resources and utility programs.

Data

The Energy Office collects and shares data on renewable energy in South Carolina. Visit the Energy Data Dashboard to see the latest energy data.

SC Solar Council

The South Carolina Solar Council (SCSC) provides a platform for solar energy growth in South Carolina accomplished through education and dialogue with all stakeholders including citizens, advocates, utilities, and policy makers. The Energy Office is active in working with and sharing information with members of SCSC.

South Carolina Energy Freedom Act

The South Carolina Energy Freedom Act (Act 62) of 2019 instituted changes to solar regulation in South Carolina, including lifting the caps on net metering and solar leasing. The Energy Office works with other ORS staff and stakeholders to share information and meet the requirements of Act 62. More information on the South Carolina Energy Freedom Act can be found on the ORS website.

Solar Leasing

In South Carolina, leasing companies must be certified before entering business. The ORS certifies and maintains a list of certified leasing companies. More information on solar leasing can be found on the Solar Leasing Information page of the ORS website.

SC Solar Siting Tool

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources' (SCDNR) solar siting tool compares the sensitivity of lands to impacts from large-scale solar projects and their suitability for solar development.