South Carolina Solar Energy Tax Credit

SC Department of Revenue

Available Solar & Renewable

About This Program

State tax credit for residential solar energy systems equal to 25% of installation cost, capped at $3,500 per year with a maximum lifetime credit of $26,000. Can be combined with federal solar tax credit.

State tax credit can be claimed over multiple years if cost exceeds annual cap

Official program page checked live on 2026-06-17.

Data last verified 2026-06-09. How we verify our data.

Key Details

  • 25% state tax credit for solar installations
  • Up to $3,500 per year credit
  • Maximum lifetime credit of $26,000
  • Can combine with federal solar ITC (30%)
  • Available through December 31, 2025

How to Apply

Get free help applying Visit Official Program Page Track this program

(803) 898-5000

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Each program sets its own contractor rules. Check the official program page for exact requirements.

Your application paperwork

Form to file: SC Schedule TC-38 (Solar Energy or Small Hydropower System Credit), filed with SC1040TC

South Carolina gives a state income tax credit for installing a solar energy system on a home you own. The credit is the lesser of 3,500 dollars per facility or 50 percent of your tax liability, and any unused amount carries forward up to 10 years. You claim it on Schedule TC-38, filed with the SC1040TC and your state return.

Steps to apply

  1. Have a solar energy system installed on your South Carolina home (placed in service on or after January 1, 2016) and keep the invoice.
  2. Complete SC Schedule TC-38 for the solar energy credit.
  3. Carry the credit to the SC1040TC and file it with your South Carolina income tax return.
  4. If the credit is larger than this year's tax, carry the unused amount forward (up to 10 years).
Get the official formDownload the fillable PDF

Documents you will likely need

  • An itemized invoice for the installed solar energy system.
  • Proof of payment.
  • Your interconnection agreement with the utility (it certifies the system was reviewed).
  • Your South Carolina income tax return with Schedule TC-38 and the SC1040TC.
Download this checklist (PDF)

Requirements vary by program and locality. Confirm the exact rules on the official program page. We can help you prepare your paperwork, but you submit it yourself.

Deadline: Available through December 31, 2025

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