Southeast
South Carolina energy rebate landscape
South Carolina is a Tier C state — limited state-level rebates, but the full federal stack (25C, 25D, HOMES, HEAR) and utility rebates are still available. The federal foundation alone delivers significant savings.
Federal foundation (available in South Carolina like every state)
- IRA 25C tax credit — up to $3,200/year on heat pumps, HVAC, envelope, audit
- IRA 25D tax credit — 30% uncapped on solar, geothermal, batteries through 2032
- DOE HOMES rebate — performance-based, up to $8,000/home, administered by SC Energy Office
- DOE HEAR rebate — income-capped (≤150% AMI), up to $14,000/home, administered by SC Energy Office
South Carolina state energy office / lead administrator
SC Energy Office is the entity administering the federal HOMES and HEAR programs in South Carolina. Visit their website for current program rollout status, contractor lists, and application portals.
Major utilities serving South Carolina
- Duke Energy Carolinas
- Dominion Energy SC
- Santee Cooper
Each utility runs its own efficiency rebate programs. Common rebates: smart thermostat ($25-$100), heat pump ($300-$3,000), insulation ($0.10-$0.50/sqft), HPWH ($300-$700). Rebate amounts vary by utility and current funding levels — always confirm before installing.
Climate-specific upgrade priorities for South Carolina
Coastal humidity drives AC + dehumidification priority. Inland areas similar to GA.
How to put together your South Carolina rebate stack
- Identify your utility from the list above and visit their efficiency-program page for current rebate offerings.
- Check SC Energy Office's site for HOMES and HEAR rollout status (whether the program is live in your county and what contractors are approved).
- Confirm equipment eligibility — federal 25C requires CEE Tier 2 or ENERGY STAR Most Efficient depending on category; utility programs often require ENERGY STAR.
- Get pre-approval if your utility or HOMES requires it (many do — skipping pre-approval voids the rebate).
- Install via a licensed contractor; collect AHRI certificate, manufacturer's certification statement, and itemized invoice.
- Submit utility rebate within the post-install window (typically 30-90 days). File federal credits via IRS Form 5695 with your tax return for the year equipment was placed in service.