2024 Solar Incentives Guide for Newark, OH - Tax Credits & Rebates

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

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 Newark 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 Newark?

Solar Renewable Energy Certificates Program (SRECs)

Incentive Type:
Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program
SREC prices vary based on market conditions

Energy Conservation for Ohioans (ECO-Link) Program

Incentive Type:
Loan Program
Rate reduction available for up to $50,000 and 7 years of the bank loan

Hamilton County - Home Improvement Program

Incentive Type:
Loan Program
$50,000

Local Option - Special Energy Improvement Districts

Incentive Type:
PACE Financing
Low-interest, 30-year loan

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 designed to encourage homeowners to make the switch to renewable energy by providing incentives that lower the financial burden of solar panel installation and use. These incentives may include upfront discounts, cash back or credit towards your monthly utility bill. Some incentives are given by the federal government, some by the state of Ohio and some by your utility company, county or municipality. Some broad categories of solar incentives include:

  • Tax Credits: Unlike tax deductions, tax credits are dollar-for-dollar reductions in the amount of income tax that you owe the government.
  • Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC): SRECs and similar performance-based incentives might be available to you if you have a solar system that produces over a specified (typically small) amount of electricity. These types of incentives are typically handled by the state government. You can sell any SRECs you have to your utility company or other buyers, and the money you receive in return is generally considered part of your taxable income.
  • Net Metering: Net metering becomes relevant after your solar system is up and running. If you have a net metering agreement with your Newark utility company, the company will subtract the value of the excess energy your solar system produces from your utility bill each month. In some areas, this credit is dollar-for-dollar, while in others you may be refunded a percentage of the value.
  • Rebates: Rebates, or partial refunds after a purchase, are normally given before any solar tax credits are calculated. Rebates may be offered by your local utility company, by your county or by your state.
  • Tax Exemptions: These can come in the form of property tax exemptions, which would allow you to exclude the value of your solar system when paying property tax on your house. You may also qualify for an exemption on sales tax at the time of purchase.

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 Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Social Impact

Palmetto Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Certified B Corp
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Quality of installation may vary by location

Federal Solar Incentives

When people think of solar incentives, federal incentives may be the first thing that comes to mind. The solar incentive that you're most familiar with is probably the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which provides a credit on your taxes equal to a percentage of the cost of your solar system.

The ITC initially applied to 30% of the total cost of installing solar panels, although that number has fluctuated slightly over the years between 26-30%. The percentage you qualify for will depend on when your solar system was installed. The total cost of installation includes the panels themselves as well as the cost of accessories, equipment and labor. There is no maximum claim amount. The ITC applies to solar panels installed after January 1, 2006, on your primary or secondary residence. The residence must be in the United States and owned by you.

Curious how the ITC might apply to your specific situation? Reach out to your local Newark solar panel installation expert to get more information.

In August 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act made revisions to the ITC, now called the Clean Energy Credit. For solar systems installed between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2032, homeowners can receive a credit for 30% of the total cost. This percentage will decrease annually after 2032 until the Clean Energy Credit ends in 2035. Beginning 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 fully understand how the new Clean Energy Credit might apply to you, get in touch with your local Newark solar installation expert.

State & Local Solar Incentives

In addition to federal solar incentives, there are often also state ones. Rebates, tax credits and more might be available at a more local level. Certain incentives are ongoing, while others are only available for a limited time. Solar incentives might be given by your county or municipality, or by the Ohio government.

Next Steps for Installing Solar in Newark

The large number of available solar incentives has contributed greatly to the increase in the adoption of solar energy nationwide over the last 15 years. You can get solar incentives from your local utility company, the Ohio government or the federal government. Getting in touch with your local Newark solar panel installation company is an excellent first step towards making sure you get all the incentives you qualify for when you switch to solar energy.

EcoWatch's Newark, OH Solar Incentives FAQs

How much can I save annually on my electric bill if I install solar panels on my Newark home?

Generally, Newark homeowners who install solar panels save approximately $877.68 per year, or around $16,675.98 over 20 years after making the switch.

Who installs solar panels near me?

To find the right solar panel installer for you, check out our guide to Newark's top solar panel companies.

If I change out my appliances for ones that can utilize solar energy, are there any credits I can claim?

With the passage of the new Inflation Reduction Act, there are a variety of new financial incentives for making eco-friendly improvements to your home. More details about these incentives, including information about incentives for purchasing new appliances, can be found here.

Can I use multiple types 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 geothermal. You can also use both renewable energy sources and a backup source of non-renewable energy. You should discuss your proposed plan with your local Newark solar installation expert, to get an understanding of what will be needed and what kinds of incentives you may or may not 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.

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