Advanced energy investment programs in South Carolina
South Carolina supports the growth of next-generation energy industries through a portfolio of incentives designed to support investment, accelerate innovation and strengthen critical supply chains.
From battery production and grid technologies to solar component manufacturing and energy storage systems, these programs help qualifying companies establish, scale and invest for long-term growth.
Through performance-based incentives, tax credits and coordinated state support, South Carolina helps advanced energy companies move forward with confidence.
Program description
South Carolina’s advanced energy incentives support companies involved in clean energy production, renewable manufacturing, battery technology, electric mobility infrastructure and other emerging energy sectors.
Available incentives may include:
- The Advanced Energy Facility Credit for qualifying investments in advanced energy operations
- Targeted incentives supporting solar, battery and grid-related manufacturing
- Tax credits aligned with capital investment and job creation
- Sales and property tax incentives for qualifying production equipment
- Discretionary incentives for transformative energy projects
In particular, the solar manufacturing tax credit supports investment in facilities that produce solar components and related clean energy technologies within the state.
South Carolina’s approach ensures that advanced energy investment incentives align with broader economic development goals, workforce growth and supply chain resilience.
Eligibility requirements
Eligibility depends on project type and scale. Qualifying businesses may include:
- Manufacturers of solar panels, battery systems or energy storage technologies
- Producers of electric vehicle components or grid infrastructure systems
- Facilities engaged in renewable energy technology production
- Companies investing in advanced energy research, development or commercialization
Applicants typically must meet requirements related to:
- Minimum capital investment thresholds
- Full-time job creation commitments
- Wage standards aligned with state guidelines
- Placement of qualifying property into service in South Carolina
- Compliance with applicable statutory definitions for advanced energy operations
Projects with significant economic impact may qualify for additional review and performance-based incentive structuring.
Companies are encouraged to engage SC Commerce early to confirm eligibility and inform investment planning.
How incentives support investment
Advanced energy incentives are generally structured as tax credits, exemptions and performance-based benefits rather than direct grants.
Depending on project scope, companies may qualify for:
- The Advanced Energy Facility Credit, applied against corporate income tax
- Credits tied to qualifying capital expenditures
- Incentives supporting job development and workforce expansion
- Sales and use tax exemptions for manufacturing equipment
- Property tax incentives coordinated with local governments
Together, these incentives can help reduce project costs, support long-term investment and strengthen advanced energy growth in South Carolina.
The South Carolina solar manufacturing tax credit and related incentives also help strengthen domestic clean energy production and supply chains.
How to apply
The application process is collaborative and designed to align incentives with project goals and performance expectations.
Step 1: Initial consultation
Contact the South Carolina Department of Commerce to discuss your advanced energy project, investment timeline and job creation projections.
Step 2: Incentive structuring
SC Commerce specialists evaluate the project to identify qualifying advanced energy investment incentives and applicable credits.
Step 3: Documentation submission
Applicants provide required materials, including:
- Capital expenditure projections
- Employment estimates
- Operational descriptions
- Project timelines
Step 4: Approval and compliance
Approved projects must meet performance benchmarks related to investment and employment to maintain eligibility.
Companies are encouraged to begin discussions before construction or equipment placement to preserve potential incentive eligibility.
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Advanced energy investment in action
South Carolina has supported advanced energy projects that contribute to innovation, supply chain strength and workforce development.
Recent examples include:
- Expansion of battery and energy storage manufacturing facilities
- Solar component manufacturing investments supported by the SC solar manufacturing tax credit
- Electric vehicle infrastructure and technology manufacturing projects
- Research-driven energy technology development initiatives
These projects demonstrate how advanced energy incentives can help catalyze private investment while supporting long-term economic growth.
Additional project examples are available through the SC Commerce team.
Frequently asked questions
Contacts and resources
For guidance on advanced energy incentives, eligibility or application support, contact the South Carolina Department of Commerce Incentives Team.
Downloadable forms and guides: These are all missing
- Advanced Energy Investment Overview
- Application Guide
- Required Documentation Checklist
- Incentive Structuring Referenceon process with the South Carolina Coordinating Council for Economic Development (Coordinating Council);
- Demonstrate that the project will have a significant beneficial effect on the region; and
- Demonstrate that the public benefits of the project exceed costs.
If approved, the company must enter into a contract with the South Carolina Department of Revenue.
Find incentives for your business
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