Solar Incentives

What a great time to go solar!  Federal tax credits, utility rebates, city and state rebates are making it possible for you to install a system at less cost than ever before.  Forward looking leaders in this country have recognized the many reasons for using renewable energy sources.  City leaders want their cities to be clean and affordable.  Baby boomers want to cap their electric bills so that they when they retire they'll be able to live on limited incomes less supported by social security than we ever anticipated.  Americans want to catch up with our European allies in becoming less dependent on foreign oil.

Federal Tax Credits have been expanded. The Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit gives tax credit for 30% of the cost of an installed solar electric system. Renewable Energy Grants allow taxpayers elegible for the tax credit to receive a grant instead of taking this credit.  A Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit for commercial and industrial applications is based on kWh produced and is distributed as either tax credit or grant.

One of the best resources on the Internet for finding what solar incentives are offered to you is the DSIRE (Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency) website. You can find a wealth of information on the incentives offered to you by state, local, utility, and federal.  Click on the map below for incentives in your area.

Keep in mind that the incentive information on the DSIRE website is only an overview.  We advise you  to research and contact the offices that are offering these incentives before you make any large monetary decisions.

Solar incentives are based on a first come first served basis, so when the money runs out you could be left waiting until the next year. Also incentives offered often have fine print terms attached to them such as qualified equipment or qualified installers and all this varies depending on the incentive.  Check here for your state's specific requirements.