Federal Tax Credit

You'll need your receipt for purchase and installation, a Manufacturer's certification (see below), and IRS Form 5695. On this form, in line 1: Qualified solar electric property costs, you'll enter the cost of the product and installation.

Existing homes and new construction qualify; as well as primary residences and secondary residences, such as vacation homes. Rental properties do not qualify.

In December 2015, legislation was signed into law that extended the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which provides for a 30% federal income tax credit for residential photovoltaic systems. The 30% federal tax credit is in effect until December 31, 2032.

No, there is no cap for residential photovoltaic systems placed into service after December 31, 2008 and before December 31, 2032.

A tax deduction is subtracted from income before total tax liability is computed. On the other hand, a tax credit is subtracted directly from the total tax due or added to the expected tax refund. For example, if your paid $665 for a Solatube^® 160 DS with installation, you would earn a $200, or 30%, tax credit, which you would add to your federal tax refund or subtract from the amount you owe.

Tax credits for residential solar installations were initially created under the Energy Policy Act of 2005, and have been extended several times under other additional acts. In 2015, the credits were extended once again. The 30% tax credit for residential installations extends until the end 2032, and then begins a step down.

Builders and contractors can receive tax credit up to $2,000 for new and renovated energy efficient dwellings. The bill also changes the energy efficiency requirements. Previously, dwellings had to be 50% more energy efficient than homes constructed according to the 2003 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). The new bill references the 2006 IECC edition as the standard.

Click here to download the 2024 Solatube^® Manufacturer Certification Statement.
Click here to download the 2023 Solatube^® Manufacturer Certification Statement.
Click here to download the 2022 Solatube^® Manufacturer Certification Statement.
Click here to download the 2021 Solatube^® Manufacturer Certification Statement.
Click here to download the 2020 Solatube^® Manufacturer Certification Statement.
Click here to download the 2019 Solatube^® Manufacturer Certification Statement.
Click here to download the 2018 Solatube^® Manufacturer Certification Statement.
Click here to download the 2017 Solatube^® Manufacturer Certification Statement.
Click here to downloadthe 2016 Solatube^® Manufacturer Certification Statement.
Click here to download the 2015 Solatube^® Manufacturer Certification Statement.
Click here to download the 2014 Solatube^® Manufacturer Certification Statement.
Click here to download the 2013 Solatube^® Manufacturer Certification Statement.
Click here to download the 2012 Solatube^® Manufacturer Certification Statement.

Many local utilities provide financial incentives for energy-efficient products. To find out if rebates or incentives are available in your area, visit the ENERGY STAR rebate finder at www.energystar.gov.

For additional information please visit your state energy office website for specific state tax information or go to www.dsireusa.org the database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency.

*Disclaimer: Solatube^® International and The Solar Guys are not tax advisors. Taxpayers claiming a tax credit should consult a tax professional with any questions. Solatube^® International and The Solar Guys are not responsible or liable for the taxpayer’s ability to receive tax credits. This document is not intended to constitute legal or tax advice. More comprehensive information will be made available by the IRS.

The user maintains the full and complete responsibility to comply with all codes, laws and regulations applicable to the safe and proper use, handling and installation of the product and should consult with a professional for all construction and design-related questions. The information contained herein is believed to be accurate as of the time of preparation. However, Solatube^® International and The Solar Guys make no warranty concerning the accuracy of this information.