What are solar rebates & incentives?

Rebates and incentives are a crucial way to encourage broader adoption of solar energy and full home electrification across the country. These incentives will typically come from your utility, state government, or the federal government in the form of tax credits, property tax abatements, one-time rebates, or performance-based rebates.

Where can I get a solar energy rebate?

Utility rebates are offered by electric utility companies to encourage homeowners to install solar panels or other solar energy technologies on their properties. Homeowners can receive these rebates directly from their utility provider.

What is a solar tax credit and a rebate?

A tax credit is claimed through your tax returns, while a rebate is a partial refund you get after the solar panels are purchased. Solar incentives are subject to change — check with your local authorities for the most up-to-date information. Tax credits for solar installations have historically benefited higher-income homeowners.

Does Philadelphia have a solar rebate program?

The city of Philadelphia created a solar rebate program in 2019 that offered rebates of $0.20 per watt for residential projects. However, this program was suspended due to budget cuts related to COVID-19 PBIs are incentives based on the energy production of a solar system.

How do solar rebates work?

Unlike tax credits, rebates are typically received as a direct payment or a discount on the purchase price. For example, if there is a $1,000 rebate on a $10,000 solar panel system, you pay $9,000, or if you pay the full amount upfront, you might receive $1,000 back after the purchase. Can I use more than one solar incentive?

Is a solar rebate a tax refund?

It is not a rebate or a refund, but it reduces what you owe on income taxes. Depending on where you live, you may be eligible for additional solar incentives, such as tax breaks and rebates. Overall, New York and Oregon have the most state-funded solar incentive programs.