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⚡ Best Electric Companies to Offset Energy Use with Solar Panels in South Carolina

As utility rates rise and sustainability becomes a higher priority, homeowners and businesses across South Carolina are turning to solar energy to reduce their utility bills and carbon footprint. But not all utility companies offer the same benefits when it comes to net metering—the policy that allows you to earn credit for the excess energy your solar panels produce and send back to the grid.

At AP Sun Energy, we help you navigate your solar journey by identifying which electric providers offer the most value for solar customers. Here’s a breakdown of the best electric companies in South Carolina based on their net metering policies, credit rates, and solar friendliness.

🌞 What Is Net Metering and Why Does It Matter?

Net metering allows solar system owners to earn bill credits for the excess electricity their system generates. These credits can be used to offset future energy use when the sun isn’t shining (like at night or during storms). The value of those credits depends on your utility’s net metering program—and that’s where it really matters who your provider is.

🔝 Top Electric Companies for Solar Net Metering in South Carolina

1. Dominion Energy South Carolina

Net Metering Type: Retail Rate (1:1) for solar customers under the legacy program.
Credit Value: Full retail rate per kWh (approx. 12–13¢/kWh).
Annual True-Up: Unused credits are paid at the lower “avoided cost” rate at year-end.
Best For: Homeowners and small businesses who use most of their power during the day.
Pros: High credit value, solid savings potential.
Cons: Changes to policies could affect new solar customers—check eligibility.

2. Duke Energy Carolinas / Duke Energy Progress

Net Metering Type: Time-of-Use (TOU) with solar incentives (Solar Choice Metering).
Credit Value: Varies by time and season. Peak hours = higher savings (up to ~15¢/kWh).
Annual Payout: Excess credits rolled over and cashed out in March at retail value.
Best For: Homes or businesses that can time energy usage around peak TOU hours.
Pros: Very competitive rates, extra credits for exporting during peak times.
Cons: TOU can be confusing; includes a minimum bill (~$30).

3. Electric Cooperatives (Blue Ridge, Horry, Berkeley, etc.)

Net Metering Type: Value-of-solar or avoided-cost model.
Credit Value: Around 4.8–6.0¢/kWh—well below retail rate.
Best For: Homeowners in rural areas with limited options.
Pros: Still provides solar credits, some community solar support.
Cons: Lower payout means longer ROI period.

🧮 Example: Savings for a Typical SC Home

A home using 1,000 kWh/month with a 6 kW solar system can:

Generate $80–$140/month in bill credits with Dominion or Duke
Only earn $40–$60/month in credits with most co-ops

🌱 Solar for Business: Added Advantages

Tax Incentives: Commercial solar systems qualify for federal tax credits, MACRS depreciation, and local rebates.
Demand Charge Reduction: Many TOU rates help reduce costly demand spikes.
Marketing Benefit: Going solar boosts green credibility for your brand.

💡 Key Takeaways for SC Homeowners & Businesses

Provider	Net Metering Rate	Credit Value	Ideal For
Dominion Energy	Full retail (legacy)	★★★★☆	Traditional solar setups
Duke Energy (DEC/DEP)	Time-of-Use + incentives	★★★★★	Savvy energy users
Electric Cooperatives	Avoided cost	★★☆☆☆	Rural homes & farms

🛠 Ready to Offset Your Bill and Go Green?

At AP Sun Energy, we custom-design solar systems that match your energy goals and utility provider. Whether you’re in Columbia, Greenville, Charleston, or a rural town, we’ll help you maximize your solar return and navigate net metering policies seamlessly.