Solar Panel Savings in Myrtle Beach, SC
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Based on 4.5 peak sun hours/day and 13.2¢/kWh average electricity rate.
4.5
Peak Sun Hours/Day
13.2¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
11 yr
Payback Period
$15k
25-Year Savings
Myrtle Beach Solar Overview
Calculate Your Myrtle Beach Solar Savings
Myrtle Beach average: $151/mo
South-facing roofs produce the most energy
Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup
Annual Production
kWh/year
Annual Savings
per year
Net System Cost
after 30% ITC
Payback Period
break-even time
25-Year Total Savings
$35,558
Monthly Savings
$87
Federal Tax Credit
$4,896
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Myrtle Beach | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $16,320 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$4,896 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $11,424 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $2.72/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Myrtle Beach
Sun Hours vs National Average
Myrtle Beach gets exactly the national average sun hours.
Climate Advantages
- 202 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 71.6°F — moderate climate with good solar conditions
- Average roof size: 1,597 sq ft — enough for a 88-panel system
Myrtle Beach Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $16,320 system, that's a $4,896 credit. Valid through 2032.
South Carolina State Incentives
South Carolina 25% state tax credit (up to $3,500); net metering.
Net Metering — Duke Energy Carolinas
Duke Energy Carolinas offers net metering in Myrtle Beach. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Myrtle Beach
3.3
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
54
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.7
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 7,884 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.
Solar Energy in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina receives an average of 4.5 peak sun hours per day, providing excellent conditions for residential solar installations. With electricity rates averaging 13.2¢ per kWh from Duke Energy Carolinas, below the national average, but with rates rising 2-3% annually, the long-term savings are still meaningful.
A typical 6kW solar system in Myrtle Beach produces approximately 7,884 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $1,041 annually. The system pays for itself in about 11.0 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 14+ years of the system's warranty life.
Myrtle Beach has a solar penetration rate of 4% — indicating early-stage solar adoption with tremendous growth potential as prices continue to fall. The cost of living index of 90 (national average: 100) reflects a lower cost of living, keeping installation costs competitive.
Other Cities in South Carolina
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Myrtle Beach, SC?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Myrtle Beach is approximately $16,320 before incentives ($2.72/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $11,424. South Carolina 25% state tax credit (up to $3,500); net metering.
How many peak sun hours does Myrtle Beach get?
Myrtle Beach, SC receives an average of 4.5 peak sun hours per day and approximately 202 sunny days per year. This is near the national average, providing good conditions for residential solar panels.
What is the solar payback period in Myrtle Beach?
The average solar payback period in Myrtle Beach is approximately 11 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $14,601.
Does Myrtle Beach have net metering?
Yes, Myrtle Beach has access to net metering through Duke Energy Carolinas. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.
Is solar worth it in Myrtle Beach, SC?
Yes, solar is a solid investment in Myrtle Beach. While the 11-year payback is moderate, you'll still save $14,601 over 25 years. The 30% federal tax credit and local incentives help make solar financially attractive.