Are you interested in going solar but don’t know about the related Oregon solar incentives? It can be helpful to use rebates, tax credits, and other incentives to lower the cost of going green. This way, you’ll be able to make the transition to solar power without breaking the bank.
However, it’s also essential to compare solar energy providers to find the best overall value. You may be tempted to simply sign a contract with the first supplier you’re willing to work with. However, you’ll be better off if you shop around, comparing various offers.
This article will help you better understand what you have to look out for when you’re considering a home solar installation. Read further to learn more.
Table of Contents
1. Net Metering Explained
Net metering is a system that credits solar energy system owners for the electricity they add to the grid. For every kilowatt-hour (kWh) that a home or business produces, the owner receives equal credit for a kWh of electricity used.
The credits on net meter customers’ bills will generally net zero with each other as the amount of electricity produced and used evens out over the term of the annual billing cycle.
On top of local incentives, Oregon also offers state tax credits for homeowners and business that install solar. Homeowners can use a filing system to get state tax credits, while business tax credits can be used against the cost of solar projects.
Furthermore, for solar projects bigger than 25 kW there are acceleration funds available to developers. Lastly, an SREC (Solar Renewable Energy Credit) trading system in Oregon allows businesses to offset the costs associated with going solar.
2. Breakdown of Subsidy Programs
There are a variety of programs available that offer financial assistance to maximize savings. The largest subsidy program is the Business Energy Tax Credit (BETC), which provides a 35% investment tax credit for businesses that install solar energy systems.
Residential Energy Tax Credit (RETC) offers a 25% individual tax credit for homeowners.
The Oregon Department of Energy also provides cash incentives for systems that generate renewable electricity and offer additional incentives for systems installed in the following:
- National Parks
- Tribal Lands
- Historic Locations
Oregon State University Solar Test Center also provides free resources and educational webinars that are meant to further help people learn more about solar energy subsidies.
Additionally, Solarize Oregon program provides free or reduced-cost system parts and installation services. Many local municipalities also offer grants, discounted loans, and rebates to reduce the cost of solar installations.
3. Navigating Tax Exemptions
Oregon offers multiple solar incentives to individuals and businesses that install solar energy systems. These incentives include tax exemptions, rebates, credits, and other financial incentives.
Navigating the tax exempted incentives offered in Oregon can be overwhelming. It’s important to understand each incentive, the requirements, and the cost savings associated with them.
For businesses, property tax exemptions are offered, while homeowners may be eligible for various property tax exemptions and other incentives.
Oregon also offers a solar production incentive to those who install solar energy systems with a minimum of 1-kW AC output. Depending on the chosen system, a solar investment tax credit may be available as well.
Understanding the guidelines and criteria for each incentive, as well as any applicable restrictions, is essential to navigating the tax exempted incentives available in Oregon.
4. Opportunities for Community Solar
Oregon solar incentives provide many amazing opportunities for community solar. Thanks to the Oregon Solar Incentives program that began in 2007, consumers can now earn incentives for their solar energy installations.
Through this program, consumers can receive up to $1,500 for solar installations that are used to generate power. In addition, this incentive helps in the creation of additional job opportunities for workers in the solar sector.
Furthermore, the Oregon Solar Incentive program also incentivizes developers to invest in the solar market by providing them with a tax credit of up to 35%. This tax credit covers up to 75% of a solar project’s total costs.
5. Qualifying Residential Property Requirements
To qualify, residential properties must be owner-occupied, located in the state of Oregon, constructed on a permanent foundation, and less than 10 acres.
The property must not be tax exempt, and the solar system size must not exceed the electrical load of the property.
Incentives for solar installations vary based on the property size, the system size, and the amount of energy produced during the term of the contract.
Eligible residents will receive cash rebates that can be used to partially cover the cost of the solar installation. You may check this page to learn more about solar.
6. Timeline for Claiming Rebates and Tax Credits
The following timeline outlines the solar incentives in Oregon and when they must be claimed. Homeowners interested in solar energy should begin the process of applying for the incentives as soon as their system is ready.
Homeowners must submit their applications before their tax filing date to ensure they can receive the solar credits before they submit their taxes. Homeowners must apply to the SEF for a rebate before the rebate deadline of December 31st of the year in which their system is installed.
Business entities must submit their applications by December 31st to be eligible for the Business Energy Tax Credit (BETC). The tax credits and rebates must be claimed in the tax year that the system is put into service and must be claimed no later than the last day of the following December.
Know All About Oregon Solar Incentives
Oregon Solar Incentives make going solar a more attractive investment. By taking advantage of Oregon’s Solar Energy Incentives, you can save money and help the environment.
With experienced professionals and a variety of incentives available, now is the time to start looking into going solar. Embrace the future and speak to the professionals today and start your journey to going solar.
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