Georgia Renewable Energy Programs and Solar Tax Incentives
We are fortunate in Georgia to have large, open landscapes and an abundance of sunshine, both of which are prime factors in thriving solar energy programs. Federal and state utilities have acknowledged this rich opportunity for residential, commercial and industrial solar development, and are now offering solar benefits, such as tax incentives for commercial solar systems and utility power purchase agreements to make renewable energy systems more affordable in Georgia. Ultimately, their goal is to drive long-term renewable energy investments to make solar more sustainable.
These federal tax incentives coupled with utility programs, such as the Georgia Power Solar Program and Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Program, reduce your solar energy costs, provide you with tax benefits and generate monthly return on investment. The result is that much of the risk typically associated with a solar-energy capital investment is removed.
So, what’s available for your business and investment? Please find a brief summary of key federal solar tax incentives and state utility programs below, and connect with us to discuss your options.
Federal Solar Tax Incentives and Programs
Federal Business Energy Investment Tax Credit
- What It Is: 30% federal energy investment tax credit
- Eligible Technologies: solar PV, solar hot water, wind, biomass and system components, among others
- Applicable Sectors: residential, commercial and industrial
- Maximum Incentive: 30% of project cost schweizer-apotheke.de
- Expiration Date: December 31, 2021
MACRS (Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System)
- What It Is: bonus and accelerated depreciation
- Eligible Technologies: solar PV, solar hot water, wind, biomass and system components among others
- Applicable Sectors: commercial and industrial
- Maximum Bonus Depreciation: 50% bonus now available in 2016
- Expiration Date: December, 2016 (expected to be renewed for 2017)
USDA REAP Grant
- What It is: 25% grant (available in USDA-eligible areas only)
- Eligible Technologies: solar PV, solar hot water, wind, biomass and system components among others
- Applicable Sectors: rural small businesses, farms, rural schools and local government
- Maximum Incentive: 25%* of project cost, capped at $500,000. *This is a competitive grant and awards are based on a project-scoring process.
- Expiration Date: The expiration date for this grant changes regularly. Please contact us or ask a tax professional who is knowledgeable about this grant program.
Georgia Utility Solar Purchase Programs
These programs are in addition to the federal tax incentives above:
- Find out about the Georgia Solar Power Program and how it can benefit your business.
- Read more about the TVA Program.
Interested in more information about state and utility programs in your area?
Bright Spaces does not warrant or guarantee receipt of incentives, grants, credits and awards. We strongly recommend that you contact an accountant or tax attorney for any specific financial advice.