Florida Solar Tax Incentives (Federal and State)
Federal Energy Tax Credit
The Federal Energy Policy Act of 2005 created tax credits for solar water heating and solar electric (PV or photovoltaic) systems. Homeowners are eligible for tax credits on qualified solar water heating and photovoltaic systems. Businesses are eligible for similar credits on solar equipment.
Treated like a payment already made toward the taxes you owe, a tax credit provides a bigger financial reward than a tax deduction. You claim the credit when filing your tax return for the year the system is installed. Both business and residential tax credits are for 30% of the cost of the system with a cap of $2,000 per technology in any tax year for residential credits.
In Florida, solar water heating and PV systems must be installed by an appropriately licensed contractor, qualified by the state to install solar equipment.
State of Florida Solar Rebates
In Florida, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Florida Energy Office oversees a commercial and residential rebate program for solar water heating, solar pool heating and solar electric systems. To receive a rebate, simply download the rebate application from the DEP Web site. Then, mail in the completed form along with required supporting documentation to receive your rebate.
Residential Rebate
Solar Water Heating System...$500.00
Solar Pool Heating System.....$100.00
Solar Electric System...4.00 per watt
(PV or Photovoltaic Systems) (Maximum $20,000 rebate)
Commercial Rebate
Solar Water Heating System...$15 per 1000 BTU (Maximum $5000 rebate)
Solar Electric Systems...$4.00 per watt (PV or Photovoltaic Systems) (Maximum $100,000 rebate)
Builders can download rebate applications at www.sunbuilt.org and should mail completed forms along with required documentation to the address listed on the application.
Florida Sales Tax Exemption
The Florida Legislature was so convinced that solar was good for Florida, they created a permanent sales tax exemption for solar in 2005.
Florida Utility Solar Rebates
Some Florida utility companies also offer solar rebates. Check your local provider for specific information in your area.
For more tax incentive information see the listed Web sites located on our links page.
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