Building Energy

State & Federal Solar Incentives

To facilitate the adoption of renewable energy systems on a broad scale, many states are offering attractive incentive programs to homeowners and businesses.

Vermont:

In addition to the incentives listed below, all renewable energy systems are exempt from Vermont sales tax.

Solar electric PV systems for homeowners qualify for a rebate of $0.65 per Watt up to 10 kilowatts (kW) and a credit for up to $350 towards a professional energy audit. Commercial projects can receive $0.60 per Watt for systems up to 60kW and a credit for up to $450 towards a professional energy audit. Special customers (schools, municipalities, and low income housing) qualify for $2.25/Watt up to 10kW and additional $1.50/Watt from 10kW up to 60kW. Special Customers also qualify for a credit of up to $450 towards a professional energy audit.

Solar hot water systems for homeowners qualify for a rebate of $1.50 per 100 BTU/day, up to $3,000 and up to $350 towards a professional energy audit. Commercial clients qualify for a rebate of $1.50 per 100 BTU/day, up to $16,500 and a credit for up to $450 towards a professional energy audit. Special customers (schools, municipalities, and low income housing) qualify for a rebate of $3.00 per 100 BTU/day up to $45,000 and a credit for up to $450 towards a professional energy audit.

Efficiency Vermont Website for Residential Incentives and Information. 

Federal Incentives:

Residential solar hot water and solar electric PV systems qualify for a personal tax credit of 30% of the system cost. An individual can take both a 30% credit for a PV system and a 30% credit for a solar water heating system.

Commercial solar hot water and solar electric PV systems qualify for an investment tax credit 30% of the system cost.

Solar hot water, PV and wind power systems are classified as “5-year property” under the Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS). Businesses can recover investments in solar systems through depreciation deductions. 

More details are available at www.dsireusa.org

Contact us today to for more information about incentives in your area.