2023 Solar Incentives Guide for Richland, MI - Tax Credits & Rebates
In this guide, we'll cover the latest solar incentives and rebates available in Richland.
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 Richland solar installers to see how much you can save.
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Updated May 04, 2023
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What Solar Tax Credits, Incentives, and Rebates are Available in Richland?
Michigan Saves - Home Energy Loan Program
Great Lakes Energy - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program
Geothermal Heat Pumps: $500
Energy Optimization (Electric) - Residential Efficiency Program
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
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
Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit
Source: https://www.dsireusa.org/
The term "solar incentives" refers broadly to financial incentives implemented by the government and by solar companies to encourage the adoption and use renewable energy by making installing and using solar panels more affordable. Incentives can include things like discounts, cash back or monthly utility bill credits. Some incentives are offered by the federal government, while others are handled by the state of Michigan or your utility company, county or municipality. Some broad categories of solar incentives include:
- Net Metering: Net metering factors in after your solar system is up and running. If you have a net metering agreement in place with your Richland utility company, the company will subtract the value of the excess energy your solar system produces from your monthly utility bill. In some locations, this credit is dollar-for-dollar, while in others you might receive a refund equivalent to a percentage of the value.
- Tax Credits: Unlike tax deductions, tax credits reduce, dollar-for-dollar, the amount of income tax that you owe the federal government.
- Tax Exemptions: Tax exemptions may come in one of two forms. The first is sales tax exemption, which is 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 calculating property tax for your home.
- Rebates: Rebates, or cash back after a purchase, are typically given prior to any solar tax credits being calculated. These rebates may be provided by your local utility company, by your state or by your county.
Federal Solar Incentives
When you hear the term "solar incentives," federal incentives may be the first thing that comes to mind. The solar incentive that you're most likely to have heard of is the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which provides a credit on your taxes equal to a certain percentage of your solar system's cost.
The ITC applies to solar systems installed after January 1, 2006 on a primary or secondary residence in the United States that you own. The credit initially covered 30% of the total cost — for panels, labor, equipment 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.
Have questions about how the ITC applies to your specific situation? Get in touch with your local Richland solar panel installer to get more information.
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. For solar systems installed between January 1, 2022 and December 31, 2032, homeowners may be eligible for a credit equal to 30% of the total cost. This percentage will decrease annually after 2032 until the Clean Energy Credit ends in 2035. The expansion to the program also makes credits for energy storage systems even easier to claim, beginning in 2023.
More information about the new Inflation Reduction Act can be found here. The easiest way to learn more about how the new Clean Energy Credit applies to you is to speak with your local Richland solar panel company directly.
State & Local Solar Incentives
Some solar incentives are often also offered at the local or state level. As with federal incentives, these can include rebates, tax credits and more. These incentives might be provided by the Michigan government, or by your county or municipality. Some incentives may be ongoing, while others are available for a limited time.
Next Steps for Installing Solar in Richland
Nationwide solar energy use has increased enormously in the last 15 years, in part due to the increase in availability of solar incentives. You may get these incentives from your local utility company, the Michigan government or the federal government. Your local Richland solar panel installer can give you more information about which incentives you can apply for, and get you started on the path to switching to renewable energy today.
Solar Veteran
Michigan Solar Solutions
- Great warranty coverage
- Outstanding customer service
- Offers products from leading manufacturers
- Slightly limited service offerings
- No leases or PPAs
Outstanding Local Installer
Strawberry Solar
- 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
EcoWatch's Richland, MI Solar Incentives FAQs
How can I learn if I qualify for different solar incentives?
It's a good idea to talk to your local Richland solar installer to get an understanding of which incentives your project will qualify for. In most cases, solar incentives apply to new solar systems installed on property you own (in the U.S.) within a specified date range. Some incentives, such as those offered by the government of Michigan, may have other requirements.
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 recently 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 date of installation. Reaching out to the company that installed your solar system, or any local Richland solar installer, can help you learn more about what incentives you can apply for.
Who installs solar panels near me?
To find the best solar panel installation companies near you, take a look at our article on Richland's best solar panel companies.
When does the federal solar tax credit end?
The Clean Energy Credit (previously called the federal solar tax credit, or ITC), is scheduled to end on January 1, 2035. Currently set at 30%, the credit will drop to 26% in 2033 and to 22% in 2034.
Can I use solar and another type of renewable energy in combination to power my home?
You can power your home with multiple types of renewable energy, or a combination of renewable and non-renewable energy. Make sure you discuss your plan with your local Richland solar installer. They can help you plan your project and educate you on the various incentives that 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.