2023 Solar Incentives Guide for Oakville, CT - Tax Credits & Rebates
In this guide, we'll cover the latest solar incentives and rebates available in Oakville.
You'll learn about:
- Local & State Solar Incentives
- Federal Tax Credits (Updated for 2023 and beyond)
- Ways to optimize your solar investment
Solar installers are experts in maximizing your solar tax credits and rebates.
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Updated May 04, 2023
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What Solar Tax Credits, Incentives, and Rebates are Available in Oakville?
Local Option - Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems
Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems
Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Solar and Geothermal Systems
Residential Solar Investment Program
Up to 10 kW PTC: $0.358/W
10 to 20 kW PTC: $0.207/W
Incentive is reduced accordingly for Design Factors below 75%. Minimum design factor is 60%.
Third-Party-Owned (PBI):
Up to 20 kW PTC: $0.03/kWh for 6 years
Minimum Design Factor 60%
Connecticut Green Energy Building Solutions
Smart-E loans
Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Energy-Efficient Products
Energy Conservation Loan
Landlord Loan: $40,000
The United Illuminating Company - Small ZREC Tariff
Eversource - Small ZREC Tariff
(Electric and Gas) Residential Rebate Program
Refrigerators/Freezers, Room A/Cs, Dishwashers, Clothes Washers, Dehumidifiers: Incentive Included in Retail Price
Central A/C: $200
Air Source Heat Pumps: $500
Heat Pump Water Heater: $750
Lighting: Incentive Included in Retail Price
Geothermal Heat Pumps: $500-$1,500
High Efficiency Furnace, Natural Gas Boiler, and Boiler Circulator Pump: Instant Discounts of $25-$800
Local Option - Residential Sustainable Energy Program
Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit
Source: https://www.dsireusa.org/
The phrase "solar incentives" refers to financial incentives designed to encourage people to use renewable energy by making installing and using solar panels more affordable. Different kinds of incentives, like cash back, discounts or monthly utility bill credits, may be available to you. Certain incentives may be handled by the state of Connecticut, by your utility company or by county or municipality, while other incentives are federal. You might qualify for any of the following types of solar incentives:
- Tax Exemptions: These might come in the form of property tax exemptions, which can let you ignore the value of your solar system when paying taxes on your house. You could also look for exemptions on sales tax at the time of purchase.
- Rebates: Rebates, or partial refunds after a purchase, are typically given before any solar tax credits are calculated. Rebates can be offered by your local utility company, by your state or by your county.
- Net Metering: Net metering is an incentive you can get once your solar panels are up and running. If you've signed a net metering agreement with your Oakville utility company, the company will subtract the value of the excess energy produced by your solar system from your monthly utility bill. In some locations, this credit is dollar-for-dollar, while in other places you may receive a refund equivalent to a percentage of the value.
- Tax Credits: Different from tax deductions, tax credits are dollar-for-dollar reductions in the amount of income tax that you owe the federal government.
Federal Solar Incentives
Federal solar incentives are likely the first thing that comes to mind when thinking 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 predetermined percentage of your solar system's cost.
The ITC can be applied to the total cost of installing a solar system, including the panels themselves as well as labor, accessories and equipment. You can claim this credit for panels installed after January 1, 2006 on a primary or secondary residence that you own and that is located in the United States. 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 claim amount.
To understand exactly how much money the ITC could save you, get in touch with your local Oakville solar panel installer.
In August 2022, the ITC (now referred to as the Clean Energy Credit) was expanded and extended by the passing of the Inflation Reduction Act. The Clean Energy Credit lasts until 2035. Any solar installation project that is completed between January 1, 2022 and December 31, 2032 may qualify for a 30% tax credit; this amount will be decreased slightly each year until the end of the current program. Starting in 2023, the expansion will also make it easier to get credit for energy storage systems.
Click here to learn more about the new Inflation Reduction Act. Your local Oakville solar panel installation experts can answer any questions you have and explain how the new Clean Energy Credit will apply to you.
State & Local Solar Incentives
Some solar incentives may be provided at the state and local level. Similar to federal incentives, these could include rebates, tax credits and more. Some incentives are ongoing, while others are available for a limited time. Solar incentives may be provided by the Connecticut government, or by your county or municipality.
Next Steps for Installing Solar in Oakville
Nationwide solar energy use has significantly increased in the past 15 years, in part due to the proliferation of solar incentives. You may get these incentives from the federal government, the Connecticut government or your local utility company. When you're ready to make the change to solar energy, reaching out to your local Oakville solar panel installation expert is a great first step.
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EcoWatch's Oakville, CT Solar Incentives FAQs
How do I learn if I qualify for different solar incentives?
It's a good idea to talk to your local Oakville solar installer for a better understanding of which incentives your project may qualify for. Generally, solar incentives apply to new solar panel systems installed on property you own (in the U.S.) between the dates specified by the incentive. Some incentives, like those given by the state of Connecticut, may have additional requirements.
What are some of the environmental benefits of switching to solar energy?
Solar energy is a renewable energy source — by switching where you get your energy, you help reduce the strain on our planet's resources. Solar panels can also lower the CO2 emissions from your home by 200 pounds yearly, or roughly 4,000 pounds in 20 years.
I want to trade in my old appliances for ones that are more energy-efficient. Are there any benefits I can get?
The recently passed Inflation Reduction Act includes provisions for several incentives designed to reward homeowners who make eco-friendly upgrades. Some of these incentives include rebates and tax credits for installing new electric appliances. You can find more details about these incentives here.
Can I apply for incentives both towards the initial cost of solar panels, and later as reimbursement?
Yes, you can claim both tax credits and rebates towards the cost of solar panels. Depending on which incentives you are eligible for, they may apply in a different order. Make sure that you speak with your solar installer or a local tax professional to verify that you are claiming the correct incentives and getting the most money possible.
Can I use both solar and another type of renewable energy to power my home?
Yes, you can use multiple types of renewable energy to power your home — for example, a combination of wind and solar. You can also use both renewable energy sources and a backup source of non-renewable energy. Make sure that you discuss your plan with your local Oakville solar panel installer, to make sure you know what you'll need and what types of incentives you will or won't qualify for.
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.