What is Solar?

Solar energy utilizes the light from the sun to produce power. Unlike fossil fuels, solar energy is available anywhere on earth. Solar energy is free, immune to rising energy prices, and can be used to provide heat, lighting, mechanical power and electricity.

The state’s independent, consumer-owned and not-for-profit electric cooperatives ― a trusted source for reliable, affordable and environmentally responsible electricity for more than 75 years ― developed MySCSolar to help you make informed decisions about investing in solar power, proper installation and safety.

Since 1941, York Electric has provided reliable and competitively priced electricity to our members. Your cooperative is your trusted source for energy so that you can truly weigh the cost and benefits of all forms of alternative energy.

Community Solar is an affordable, low-risk way for members to benefit from solar energy without any of the hassles of designing, permitting, installing, maintain and ensuring your own photovoltaic solar array. Research in South Carolina has shown that the cost per KW for community solar is roughly half that of rooftop solar; therefore, you will get a better return on your investment by investing in community solar.

While large investor-owned utilities may provide rebates for rooftop solar devices, the money used for these rebates is recouped in the rate and all customers share in the cost. While YEC is supportive of alternative forms of energy, as a member-owned cooperative, we need to make sure any new offerings are fair and not subsidized by those who are not interested in the program.

Solar energy has come down in price over the years; however, it is still approximately three times the cost of more traditional types of energy.