The average residential electricity rate in South Carolina (SC) is $0.1388 per kWh as of April 2026, according to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA). This is far below the national average of $0.1805/kWh, ranking South Carolina #19 out of 51 (all 50 states plus Washington DC), where #1 is the cheapest and #51 is the most expensive. The average South Carolina household consumes 1,160 kWh per month, resulting in a monthly electric bill of approximately $161 and annual electricity costs of about $1,932.
South Carolina gets over 50% from nuclear. The abandoned V.C. Summer expansion cost ratepayers billions.
This comprehensive guide covers South Carolina electricity rates, historical trends, utility providers, bill calculation, solar savings potential, and actionable tips to reduce your electric bill. All rate data is sourced from the US EIA and updated monthly. Use our electricity cost calculator for personalized estimates.
South Carolina residential electricity rates have increased 12% over the past six years. The table below shows the trajectory compared against the national average.
| Year | South Carolina ($/kWh) | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $0.1242 | $0.1322 | -6% |
| 2022 | $0.1310 | $0.1492 | -12% |
| 2024 | $0.1360 | $0.1680 | -19% |
| Apr 2026 | $0.1388 | $0.1805 | -23% |
South Carolina has a regulated electricity market. The primary providers are: Duke Energy Carolinas, Dominion Energy SC, Santee Cooper, Electric Cooperatives.
South Carolina generates electricity from: Nuclear 53%, Natural gas 26%, Coal 6%, Solar 8%, Hydroelectric 4%, Other 3%.
Your monthly electric bill = kWh Used × Rate per kWh. The average South Carolina household uses 1,160 kWh/month.
South Carolina generates over half its electricity from nuclear. The failed V.C. Summer nuclear expansion added billions to customer rates. Solar is growing rapidly.
Universal strategies: adjust thermostat 2-3 degrees (saves 5-10% on HVAC), switch to LEDs (see our LED savings calculator), unplug phantom loads (saves $100-200/year), and run major appliances during off-peak hours if your utility offers time-of-use pricing. For larger investments, consider a heat pump, better insulation, or a smart thermostat.
South Carolina receives 4.8 peak sun hours/day. A 6 kW system produces ~8,620 kWh/year, saving ~$1,196/year. With the 30% federal ITC, payback is typically 8-12 years. Use our solar panel calculator and solar ROI calculator for personalized estimates.
| State | Rate ($/kWh) | Avg Bill | Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina (SC) | $0.1388 | $161 | Regulated |
| Georgia (GA) | $0.1360 | $163 | Regulated |
| North Carolina (NC) | $0.1288 | $141 | Regulated |
Data source: US Energy Information Administration (EIA), Electric Power Monthly, April 2026. Rates shown are average residential rates and may differ from your specific utility tariff. Solar estimates assume a 6 kW system with 82% efficiency factor. Always verify current rates with your utility provider.