Plug-in solar in South Carolina
Bill failed or died Checked November 10, 2026
South Carolina House Bill 4579, "Balcony Solar Panels," would also have limited deed restrictions on balcony panels. It was referred to the Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee and had no action after January 13, 2026.
Bills
| Bill | Stage | Last action | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| H.4579 Balcony Solar Panels | Died when the session ended | Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry (January 13, 2026) | Session ended: May 14, 2026 (record) |
South Carolina House Journal, May 14, 2026: at 5:00 p.m. on the second Thursday in May the House adjourned sine die (the General Assembly may return under its sine die resolution only for limited matters).
The rules
South Carolina has no enacted plug-in solar law. There are no state rules to list; your utility's interconnection rules apply.
What's next
The 2025-2026 session has ended; a new bill would be needed in 2027.
What could it save?
For an 800 W panel kit at South Carolina's average residential price of 15.77¢/kWh (September 2025 – August 2026 (12 months)):
- Ideal tilt (20°, south)
- 1,163 kWh a year: about $127 typical (69% used at home), up to $183 best case (100%)
- Vertical railing (90°, south)
- 708 kWh a year: about $77 typical (69% used at home), up to $112 best case (100%)
"Typical" uses HTW Berlin's model for an 800 W system without a battery; exports are assumed to earn nothing. Solar data: NREL PVWatts for Columbia (capital). Try your own numbers · Is it worth it? · Railing vs tilted
Price source: EIA residential average, September 2025 – August 2026 (12 months).
Questions
Is plug-in solar legal in South Carolina?
South Carolina has no plug-in solar law. Without one, small plug-in systems fall under your utility's own interconnection rules. Ask your utility before you connect anything.
Neighbouring states
- Georgia: Bill failed or died
- North Carolina: Bill active
Related: is it worth it? · railing vs tilted panels · renters guide · all kits · Certification watch · how we verify
Sources
- South Carolina Legislature: H.4579 (2025-2026) Balcony Solar Panels (Legislature bill page; accessed November 10, 2026)
- South Carolina House Journal, May 14, 2026 (Official legislature record; accessed November 10, 2026)
This page is general information, not legal or electrical advice. Laws change and utilities differ. Check the linked official sources, your lease or HOA rules, and your utility before you buy or install anything. Full disclaimer.