2024 Solar Incentives Guide for Corpus Christi, TX - Tax Credits & Rebates

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

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 Corpus Christi 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

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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 Corpus Christi?

Renewable Energy Systems Property Tax Exemption

Incentive Type:
Property Tax Incentive

Texas Gas Service - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program

Incentive Type:
Rebate Program
Free Equipment Program: Free appliance installation and weatherization services
Home Improvement (includes attic insulation, duct sealing, duct insulation, duct replacement, high-efficiency gas furnace, and Wi-Fi thermostat: Up to $1000
Solar Water Heater With Natural Gas Backup: $750
Tankless or Super High-efficiency Water Heater: $650
Furnace: $675
Furnace Tune-Up: $40
Natural Gas Dryer with moisture sensor: $225
Natural Gas Dryer Stub: $300

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/


The term "solar incentives" covers a range of financial incentives implemented to make installing and using solar panels more affordable. This is done to encourage people to switch to renewable energy. Incentives could include things like discounts, cash back or credit towards your monthly utility bill. Some incentives are offered federally, while others are provided by the state of Texas or your utility company, county or municipality. Types of solar incentives might include:

  • Net Metering: Net metering factors in after your solar panels are up and running. If you have a net metering agreement with your Corpus Christi utility company, the company will subtract the value of the excess energy produced by your solar system from your monthly utility bill. In some areas, this is a dollar-for-dollar credit, while in other areas you might make back a percentage of the value.
  • Tax Credits: Tax credits are dollar-for-dollar reductions (not deductions) in how much in taxes you owe the government.
  • Tax Exemptions: Tax exemptions may come in two forms. The first is sales tax exemption, 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 paying property tax on your home.
  • Rebates: Solar companies may help you claim a rebate, or partial refund after purchase, for your solar system. States or counties will also sometimes offer limited-time rebates. If you receive a rebate, that amount will usually be deducted from the total price before any tax credits are calculated.

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 Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Federal Solar Incentives

When thinking about solar incentives, you probably think of federal incentives first. An incentive that most people are likely familiar with is the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This incentive is a tax credit for a specified percentage of your solar system's cost.

The ITC is applied to the total cost of installing solar panels, including the panels themselves as well as accessories, equipment and labor. This credit can be claimed 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.

Your local Corpus Christi solar panel installer can give you more information about the ITC and how it applies to your situation.

In August 2022, the ITC (now called the Clean Energy Credit) was bolstered by the passing of the Inflation Reduction Act. Under the new program, solar installation projects that are completed between 2022 and 2032, may be eligible for a 30% tax credit. This percentage will then see a slight annual decrease until the current Clean Energy Credit expires in 2035. Starting in 2023, it will also be easier to obtain credits for energy storage systems under the new laws.

More information about the new Inflation Reduction Act can be found here. The best way to learn more about how the new Clean Energy Credit will apply to you is to get in touch with your local Corpus Christi solar panel company.

State & Local Solar Incentives

Rebates, tax credits and more might be claimed at multiple levels. On top of federal solar incentives, there are often state and local ones, too. These incentives may be given out by your county or municipality, or by the Texas government. Certain incentives are ongoing, while others are available for a limited time.

Next Steps for Installing Solar in Corpus Christi

There are many kinds of solar incentives: those offered by local utility companies, those provided by the Texas government and those given by the federal government, to name a few. Solar energy use has increased tremendously in the last 15 years, partially due to these incentives. Your local Corpus Christi solar panel installation expert can provide you with more details about which incentives you can apply for, and get you started on the path to switching to renewable energy today.

EcoWatch's Corpus Christi, TX Solar Incentives FAQs

If my house already has solar panels, can I still claim incentives?

If your solar system was 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 might qualify for a tax credit between 26% and 30%, depending on the date of installation. Talking to the company that installed your system, or any local Corpus Christi solar installer, can help you learn what incentives you qualify for.

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

Solar energy is renewable — by changing where you get your energy, you help lessen the strain on our planet's resources. You can also lower your home's CO2 emissions by 450 pounds yearly, or around 9,000 pounds over 20 years.

How long until the federal solar tax credit ends?

The Clean Energy Credit (previously referred to as 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.

Can I use both solar and another type of renewable energy to power my home?

Yes, you can employ multiple types of renewable energy to power your home, such as a combination of solar and wind power. You can also use both renewable energy sources and a non-renewable backup source of energy. Make sure that you discuss the details of your plan with your local Corpus Christi solar panel installer, so that you understand what you'll need and what types of incentives you may or may not qualify for.

Can I get any financial 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, and most secondary residences fall into this category. There may be other solar incentives available for commercial properties, depending on the specifics. We recommend speaking with your local solar installer and/or tax professional to best understand what incentives may apply to your specific situation.

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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