South Carolina Electric Laws and Incentives

State Incentives

Alternative Fuel and Advanced Vehicle Tax Credit

A state income tax credit equal to 20% of the federal fuel cell, advanced lean burn, hybrid electric vehicle, and alternative fuel vehicle credits is available to South Carolina resident taxpayers who are eligible for, and claim, the federal credits. If the amount of the credit exceeds the taxpayer's liability for the applicable tax year, any unused portion of the credit may be carried forward and claimed for up to five years. The state tax credit is calculated without regard to the phase out period limits of Internal Revenue Code Section 30(B)(f). (Reference South Carolina Code of Laws 12-6-3377)

State Laws and Regulations

Low-Speed Vehicle Access to Roadways

A low-speed vehicle is defined as a four-wheeled motor vehicle, other than an all terrain vehicle, capable of reaching speeds of at least 20 miles per hour (mph) but not greater than 25 mph. A low-speed vehicle may operate only on secondary highways with a posted speed limit of up to 35 mph. A low-speed vehicle must be registered and licensed in the same manner as a passenger vehicle and is subject to the same insurance requirements applicable to other motor vehicles. Homemade low-speed vehicles, retrofitted golf carts, or any other similar vehicles do not qualify as low-speed vehicles. (Reference South Carolina Code of Laws 56-1-10, 56-2-100 to 56-2-130, and 56-5-820)

State Agency Alternative Fuel Use Requirement

Whenever practical and economically feasible, all state agencies operating alternative fuel vehicles are required to use alternative fuels in those vehicles. Private businesses are encouraged to increase the use of alternative fuels in the state. (Reference Executive Order 2001-35)