2024 Solar Incentives Guide for Gaines, MI - Tax Credits & Rebates

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

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 Gaines 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

Why you can trust EcoWatch

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 Gaines?

Energy Optimization (Electric) - Residential Efficiency Program

Incentive Type:
Rebate Program
Appliance Recycling
Refrigerator: $50
Chest Freezer: $50
Window Air Conditioners: $15
Dehumidifier: $15

HVAC
WiFi Thermostat: $75
ECM Blower Motor: $200
Central Air Conditioning: 150 - $500
Central Air-Source Heat Pump: $250 - $500
Mini/Multi-Split Air-Source Heat Pump: $250 - $750
HVAC Combo Bonus: $100 bonus
Smart HVAC Combo Bonus: $150 bonus
Tune-Up Central Air Conditioner or Air-Sourse Heat Pump: $50
Ground-Source Heat Pump: $500 - $750
Efficient Circulation Pump: $100
Heat Pump Water Heater: $500
Pool Pump: $250
Pipe Wrap Insulation: $0.80/ft. ($8 max)

ENERGY STAR Products
LED Bulbs: In-store savings vary by retailer
LED Downlight Kits: In-store savings vary by retailer
Outdoor LED Fixtures: $5
Ceiling Fan: $10
Advanced Power Strip: $5
Room Air Conditioner: $10
Air Purifier: $10
Dehumidifier: $15
Clothes Washer: $20
Refrigerator: $20
Chest Freezer or Upright Freezer: $15
Television: $10 - $20
Personal Computer: $10
Occupancy Sensor: $5
Wifi-Enabled Thermostat: $75

Income Qualified Services
Free Product Kit: May include energy-saving items, such as LED lights and a smart power strip

Consumers Energy (Electric) - Residential Energy Efficiency Program

Incentive Type:
Rebate Program
Appliances
Washing Machine: $25 - $50
WiFi Enabled Thermostat: $50 - $100
Room Air Conditioner: $20
Dehumidifier: $20
Pool Pump: $350
Refrigetor/Freezer Recyclilng: $50
Room Air Conditioner/Dehumidifier Recycling: $15

Heating & Cooling
Split System Central AC: $50 - $500
Air Source Heat Pump: $150 - $250
Ground Source Heat Pump: $200 - $300
Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump: $350
ECM Motor: $50
Thermostat: $10 - $100
Central AC Tune-Up: $50

Windows & Insulation
Roof Insulation: $50 - $200
Wall Insulation: $50 - $125
Crawlspace Insulation: $10 - $50
Rim Joist Insulation: $20 - $50
Window Replacement: $15/window
Patio Door Replacement: $40/door

Lighting
Varies

Michigan Saves - Home Energy Loan Program

Incentive Type:
Loan Program
$30,000

Great Lakes Energy - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program

Incentive Type:
Rebate Program
Air-Source Heat Pumps: $250
Geothermal Heat Pumps: $500

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/


Solar incentives are intended to make renewable energy usage more affordable via financial incentives for those who install solar panels on their homes. Different types of incentives, like discounts, cash back or credit towards your monthly utility bill, might be available to you. Certain incentives may be provided via the Michigan government, by your utility company or by county or municipality, while others are federal. Some broad categories of solar incentives include:

  • Tax Credits: Tax credits are dollar-for-dollar reductions (not deductions) in how much income tax you owe the government.
  • Rebates: Solar rebates might be offered by your local utility company, or by your state or county. These rebates work as cash back that is applied after your purchase of a solar system and before tax credits are calculated.
  • Net Metering: You can sign a net metering contract with your Gaines utility company. This agreement may apply to all or a percentage of the excess electricity that is generated by your solar panels. They will then subtract this value from your monthly utility bill.
  • Tax Exemptions: Sales tax exemptions are effective at the point of sale for your solar panels. Property tax exemptions let you ignore the value that your solar panels add when you calculate how much property tax you need to pay on your house.

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

Solar Veteran

Michigan Solar Solutions

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Outstanding customer service
  • Offers products from leading manufacturers
  • Slightly limited service offerings
  • No leases or PPAs

Outstanding Local Installer

Strawberry Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Outstanding customer service
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Educational, no-pressure sales approach
  • Limited warranty coverage
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Limited brands of solar equipment available

Federal Solar Incentives

When someone says "solar incentives," you probably think of federal incentives first. The Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit, or ITC, is likely the most well-known federal solar incentive. The ITC provides you with a tax credit for a predetermined percentage of the cost of your solar system.

The ITC can be applied to solar panels installed after January 1, 2006, on a primary or secondary residence that you own in the United States. The credit initially covered 30% of the total cost – for panels, equipment, labor and accessories – although it may range from 26-30%, depending on when your solar system was installed. There is no cap on the claim amount.

Reaching out to your local Gaines solar panel installation expert is the best way to learn more about how the ITC may apply to you.

In August 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act made revisions to the ITC, now called the Clean Energy Credit. The new Clean Energy Credit now runs until 2035. Homeowners can now apply for a 30% credit for solar systems installed between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2032. The total credit will then decrease annually until the date of expiration. Starting in 2023, it will also be easier to qualify for credits for energy storage systems under the new laws.

Click here to learn more about the new Inflation Reduction Act. Your local Gaines solar panel installation experts can answer your questions and explain how the new Clean Energy Credit will apply to you.

State & Local Solar Incentives

Some solar incentives are often also provided at the state and local level. Similar to federal incentives, these can include rebates, tax credits and more. Incentives may be given by your county or municipality, or by the state of Michigan. Certain incentives are available for only a limited time, while others are ongoing.

Next Steps for Installing Solar in Gaines

The variety of solar incentives available has contributed greatly to the increase in the nationwide adoption of solar energy over the last 15 years. You may receive solar incentives from the Michigan government, the federal government or your local utility company. It is a good idea to talk to your local Gaines solar installation expert to learn more about these incentives and to make sure that you're getting the most money possible for your solar panels.

EcoWatch's Gaines, MI Solar Incentives FAQs

I already have solar panels installed. Does my system qualify for any incentives?

If your solar system was installed after January 1, 2022, you may qualify for the recently 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 year it was installed. Speaking with the company that installed your solar system, or any local Gaines solar installer, can help you learn more about what incentives you qualify for.

Who installs solar panels near me?

To discover the top solar panel installation companies near you, read our article on Gaines' best solar panel companies.

What are some environmental benefits of adding solar panels to my home?

Solar energy is renewable — by switching where you get your energy, you help reduce the strain on our planet's resources. You can also reduce your home's CO2 emissions by 500 pounds annually, or around 10,000 pounds over 20 years.

When does the federal solar tax credit end?

The Clean Energy Credit (previously called the federal solar tax credit, or the ITC), is slated to end on January 1, 2035. Currently set at 30%, the credit will drop to 26% in 2033 and to 22% in 2034.

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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