2024 Solar Incentives Guide for Gadsden, AL - Tax Credits & Rebates

In this guide, we'll cover the latest solar incentives and rebates available in Gadsden.

You'll learn about:

  • Local & State Solar Incentives
  • Federal Tax Credits (Updated for 2024 and beyond)
  • Ways to optimize your solar investment

Solar installers are experts in maximizing your solar tax credits and rebates.
Get a free quote from one of our trusted Gadsden solar installers to see how much you can save.

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

What Solar Tax Credits, Incentives, and Rebates are Available in Gadsden?

Wood-Burning Heating System Deduction

Incentive Type:
Personal Tax Deduction

Local Option- Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Faclities

Incentive Type:
Property Tax Incentive

Alabama Power - Residential Heat Pump Loan Program

Incentive Type:
Loan Program
Varies, up to 100% of project cost for qualifying customers

Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit

Incentive Type:
Personal Tax Credit
30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.

Source: https://www.dsireusa.org/


The term "solar incentives" refers broadly to financial incentives put in place by solar companies and the government to encourage the use of renewable energy by making solar panels more affordable. Various kinds of incentives, such as discounts, cash back or credit towards your monthly utility bill, might be available to you. Some incentives may be provided via the Alabama government, by your utility company or by county or municipality, while others are federal. Types of solar incentives might include:

  • Tax Exemptions: Tax exemptions may come in one of two forms. The first is sales tax exemption, applied at the time you purchase your solar panels. The second is property tax exemption, which allows you to exclude the value added by your solar system when paying property tax on your home.
  • Rebates: A rebate is a partial refund given after you've purchased your solar system. These may be offered by your local utility company, your state or your county. The rebates are usually applied before tax credits are calculated.
  • Tax Credits: Tax credits are dollar-for-dollar reductions in the amount of income tax that you owe the government. (This is different from a tax deduction.)
  • Net Metering: You can sign a net metering contract with your Gadsden utility company, that may apply to all or a percentage of the excess electricity your solar panels generate. Your utility company will then subtract this value from your monthly utility bill.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • Price-match guarantee
  • Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Best solar battery on the market
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Federal Solar Incentives

Federal solar incentives are probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think about solar incentives. An incentive many people are likely familiar with is the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This is a tax credit for a given percentage of your solar system's cost.

The ITC applies to the total cost of solar panel installation, including the panels themselves as well as accessories, equipment and labor. This credit can be claimed for panels installed after January 1, 2006, on a primary or secondary residence located in the United States that you own. From its original value of 30% of the total cost, the credit has fluctuated slightly between 26-30%, and you may qualify for varying percentages depending on when your project was completed. There is no maximum amount you can claim.

Your local Gadsden solar panel installation expert can provide you with more information about the ITC and how it applies to your situation.

In August 2022, the ITC (now titled the Clean Energy Credit) was expanded and extended by the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act. For solar system installations that begin after January 1, 2022, and are completed by the end of 2032, homeowners can receive a credit for 30% of the total cost. After 2033, the percentage will decrease annually until the Clean Energy Credit expires in 2035. The expansion also makes claiming credit for energy storage systems easier than ever before, starting in 2023.

More information about the new Inflation Reduction Act can be found here. Your local Gadsden solar panel installation expert is the best person to answer your questions regarding the new Clean Energy Credit and how it may apply to you.

State & Local Solar Incentives

Federal solar incentives are not your only option; rebates, tax credits and more might also be offered at the local or state level. Certain incentives are ongoing, while others may only be available for a limited time. Solar incentives might be offered by your county or municipality, or by the Alabama government.

Next Steps for Installing Solar in Gadsden

Solar incentives may come from your local utility company, the federal government or the Alabama government. The growing number of solar incentives available has facilitated the nationwide growth of solar energy use in the last 15 years. Contact your local solar panel installation expert today to find out more information and to save the most money possible on a solar system for your Gadsden home.

EcoWatch's Gadsden, AL Solar Incentives FAQs

If I already have a solar system installed on my house, can I still claim incentives?

If your solar system was installed after January 1, 2022, you may qualify for the newly increased 30% tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act. If you had your system installed between 2006 and 2021, you might qualify for a tax credit between 26% and 30%, depending on the exact installation date. Talking to the company that installed your system, or any local Gadsden solar installer, can help you learn what incentives you might want to apply for.

How much can I save on my electric bill annually if I add solar panels to my house in Gadsden?

On average, Gadsden homeowners who install solar panels save about $1,098.74 per year, or around $20,876.06 over 20 years after they make the switch.

Can I use both solar and another type of renewable energy to power my home?

Yes, you can utilize multiple types of renewable energy to power your home, such as a combination of solar and wind power. You can also use both renewable energy sources and a backup source of non-renewable energy. Make sure that you discuss your proposed plan with your local Gadsden solar installation expert, to get an understanding of what will be needed and what kinds of incentives you might or might not qualify for.

Can I receive any incentives when I add solar panels to a rental property, vacation home or commercial property?

Many solar incentives are intended to apply to a property located within the United States that you own, and most secondary residences will fall into this category. There may be other solar incentives available for commercial properties, depending on the specifics. We recommend speaking with your local solar installer and/or tax professional to fully understand what incentives may apply to your specific situation.

Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.

Solar incentive research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.

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