Best 3 Solar Companies in Hilton Head Island, SC

With Hilton Head Island's clear skies and below-average rainfall, it's a great area for homeowners and businesses aiming to harness the additional sunlight by purchasing panels from one of the best solar companies. While switching to solar energy comes with upfront costs, local homeowners could ultimately save $1,100 per kilowatt on their electric bills. A professional company can help you select the best panels to maximize your savings. Discover Hilton Head Island's top-rated solar companies and learn key decision-making tips on this page.

Ranking Methodology

We analyzed a multitude of Hilton Head Island solar providers, using the following criteria to choose the best:

• Educational programs and business model: Solar technicians must be good teachers. They should utilize their years of experience answer your questions on how to care for your system and optimize its performance.
• Feedback and reviews from customers: Most Hilton Head Island solar contractors have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio demonstrates a company's trustworthiness and responsiveness to issues.
• Service offerings and warranties: Solar companies should stand behind their systems and services with warranties. We evaluated how each contractor responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on promptness and customer satisfaction.
• Panel quality and brand offerings: The best solar companies stay up-to-date with new technology, offering equipment from reliable, innovative manufacturers.
• Professional licensure and experience: Each contractor on our list complies with state and city licensing requirements and keeps current with industry best practices. Many of them have served the Hilton Head Island community for a decade or longer.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy comes with multiple perks. Let's look at a few of them.

• Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is one of the universe's most abundant clean energy sources, meaning you can minimize or conquer your home's dependence on "traditional" sources.
• Lowered energy bills: You can dodge the added cost of grid-tied power by creating some electricity right where you use it. Plus, many states provide net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back for credits on your bill.
• Better energy independence: Adding a solar battery storage system lets you have trustworthy energy during grid outages and storms.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Hilton Head Island Homeowners?

The state of South Carolina offers a variety of solar incentives to help lower your solar system costs. Check out a breakdown of available solar programs where you live.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Hilton Head Island

The purchase price and efficacy of solar panels often rely on which company installed them. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.

Licensing and Training

South Carolina regulations differentiate between mechanical and general contractors for solar energy work. Licensed mechanical contractors can install or repair any solar PV system rated for between 50 and 600 volts if they have an electrical Certificate of Authorization. Solar thermal installers need a Certificate of Authorization in plumbing and a supervising licensed plumber on their team. Solar installers can also earn certifications from trade groups and standards organizations. The top ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Hilton Head Island

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels provide a lower price point but produce less power. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.

If you'd like to charge an electric car or use your solar power in dark weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By choosing the right components, you can make your system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar companies include these add-ons, so look for a provider that installs them if it's important for you.

You can plan to spend about $17,250 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Hilton Head Island. Use the table in this section to get an idea of what amount Hilton Head Island solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.

Financing Solar Energy in Hilton Head Island

Solar providers use multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar leases, solar loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs) and cash payments. We advise paying with cash or using a solar loan for the highest return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also have full ownership of your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to cut your total costs. Solar loans are another good option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in installments while still enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) lets you pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. We generally don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the solar system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Ask each business you're evaluating about the financing options it offers. A representative can help you determine the optimal option for your pocketbook.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Hilton Head Island.

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy equipment until the year 2032. Local and state governments and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and dedicated financing plans that could save you more.

Sources

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
• U.S. Department of Energy