2023 Solar Incentives Guide for Urbandale, IA - Tax Credits & Rebates
In this guide, we'll cover the latest solar incentives and rebates available in Urbandale.
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.
Get a free quote from one of our trusted Urbandale solar installers to see how much you can save.
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Updated March 14, 2023
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What Solar Tax Credits, Incentives, and Rebates are Available in Urbandale?
Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems
Renewable Energy Equipment Exemption
Solar Energy Systems Tax Credit (Personal)
Local Option - Special Assessment of Wind Energy Devices
Methane Gas Conversion Property Tax Exemption
Geothermal Heat Pump Tax Credit
Energy Replacement Generation Tax Exemption
Reduced rate for large hydro
Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit
Source: https://www.dsireusa.org/
The term "solar incentives" refers to financial incentives implemented by the government and by solar companies to encourage people to use renewable energy by making installing and using solar panels more affordable. You may be eligible for various types of incentives, such as cash back, discounts or credit towards your monthly utility bill, depending on your situation. Some incentives come from your specific utility company, county or municipality, some from the state of Iowa and others from the federal government. Some broad categories of solar incentives include:
- Tax Exemptions: Sales tax exemptions go into effect at the time of purchase for your solar system. Property tax exemptions allow you to exclude the added value of your solar system when you're calculating the amount of property tax you need to pay.
- Tax Credits: Tax credits are dollar-for-dollar reductions (not deductions) in the amount of tax that you owe the federal government.
- Net Metering: Net metering becomes relevant once your solar panels are up and running. If you have a net metering agreement with your Urbandale utility company, it will subtract the value of the excess energy your solar system produces from your utility bill each month. In some locations, this credit is dollar-for-dollar, while in other areas you may get refunded a percentage of the value.
- Rebates: Some solar companies will help you claim a rebate, or partial refund of your purchase, for your solar panels. States or counties will also offer limited-time rebates at various times. The value of a rebate will usually be deducted from the total price before any tax credits are calculated.
Federal Solar Incentives
Federal solar incentives are probably the first thing that you think of when thinking about solar incentives. The Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit, or ITC, is likely the most commonly known federal solar incentive. The ITC offers a tax credit for a predetermined percentage of your solar system's cost.
The ITC can be applied to the total cost of solar panel installation, 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. The tax credit ranges from 26-30% of total costs depending on when your project was completed. There is no maximum claim amount.
To understand exactly how much the ITC could save you, talk to your local Urbandale solar panel installation expert.
The ITC was renewed and increased in scope after the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act in August 2022. It's also now called the Clean Energy Credit. With the new provisions, solar installation projects begun after January 1, 2022 and finished by December 31, 2032 might qualify for a 30% tax credit. The amount of the credit will then see a slight annual decrease until the end of the current Clean Energy Credit in 2035. Starting in 2023, it will also be easier to get credits for energy storage systems under the new laws.
More information about the new Inflation Reduction Act can be found here. To understand how the new Clean Energy Credit will apply to you, get in touch with your local Urbandale solar installation expert.
State & Local Solar Incentives
Federal solar incentives are not your only option; tax credits, rebates and more might also be offered at the state and local level. These incentives may be given out by your county or municipality, or by the Iowa government. Certain incentives are ongoing, while others are available for a limited time.
Next Steps for Installing Solar in Urbandale
Nationwide solar energy use has increased enormously in the last 15 years, in part thanks to the proliferation of solar incentives. You can obtain these incentives from your local utility company, the Iowa government or the federal government. It is a good idea to talk to your local Urbandale solar installer to learn more about these incentives and to make sure that you're getting the largest number possible for your solar system.
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- 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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Urbandale, IA Solar Incentives FAQs
Can I receive any incentives when I add solar panels to a rental property, vacation home or commercial property?
Many solar incentives apply to a property located within the United States that you own; most secondary residences will fall into this category. Other solar incentives may be available for commercial properties, depending on the details. We recommend reaching out to your local solar installer and/or tax professional to best understand what incentives may apply to your specific situation.
I already have solar panels installed. Do I qualify for any incentives?
If your solar panels were installed after January 1, 2022, you may qualify for the newly increased 30% tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act. If your system was installed between 2006 and 2021, you may qualify for a tax credit between 26% and 30%, depending on the year it was installed. Speaking with a representative from the company that installed your system, or any local Urbandale solar installer, can help you understand what incentives you can apply for.
How much will a solar system save me on my electric bill in Urbandale annually?
Typically, Urbandale homeowners who install solar panels save approximately $790.17 per year, or approximately $15,013.20 over 20 years after they make the switch.
What are the top solar panel installation companies near me?
To discover the best solar panel installation companies near you, take a look at our article on the best solar companies in Urbandale.
Can I use multiple types of renewable energy to power my home?
Yes, you can employ multiple types of renewable energy to power your home — for example, a combination of solar and wind power. You can also combine renewable energy generation with a backup source of non-renewable energy. You should discuss your proposed plan with your local Urbandale 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.