Resources

Tax Credits

Save 30% with the Federal Tax Credit

Take advantage of this limited time benefit.

Take advantage of a Federal Tax Credit on all your Solar Star® purchases. Read our list of Frequently Asked Questions below and consult with a tax professional for eligibility requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Residential Solar Energy Systems: Photovoltaic System

On October 3, 2008, George W. Bush signed the Emergency Stabilization Act of 2009, which extended the credits available for solar-powered energy systems and expanded the qualifying product requirements. This allows for a 30% tax credit on the purchase and installation of residential solar water heating, photovoltaic equipment, and fuel cell property.

Essentially, this means there are three main areas of 30% tax credit available:

  • Residential solar water heating
  • Residential photovoltaic equipment
  • Residential fuel cell property

Solar Star® Attic Fans, both roof mount and conversion kits, qualify for the category solar energy systems: photovoltaic systems, under the definition below:

“Property that uses solar energy to generate electricity for the residence and must meet applicable fire and electrical code requirements.”

There are no specific technical requirements for photovoltaic systems. But all installed Solar Star Attic Fans must meet applicable fire and electrical code requirements to qualify.

Homeowners are eligible for tax credits for qualified photovoltaic systems purchased and installed between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2020*.

For solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, the allowable tax credit is 30% of the qualified PV system expenditures, including both product and installation costs.

There is no credit cap for residential photovoltaic (PV) systems placed into service after December 31, 2008.

Unlike other consumer energy tax incentives, the dwelling does not need to be the primary residence (rental properties and second homes are eligible) and applies to both existing homes and new construction.

A tax deduction is subtracted from income before total tax liability is computed. On the other hand, a tax credit is subtracted directly from the total tax liability.

To qualify, tax payers should retain information that includes:

  • Receipt with the cost of the system
  • When it was placed in service
  • Manufacturer Certification Statement

Click here to download the Solar Star Manufacturer Certification Statement.

Yes, Solar Star Attic Fan DIY Kits – both roof mount and conversion kits – are eligible, as long as they meet the qualifying criteria and all applicable fire and electrical code requirements.

An ENERGY STAR® rating is not required for the photovoltaic system tax credit eligibility program.

Use the IRS Form 5695.

Many local utilities provide financial incentives for energy-efficient products. To find out if rebates or incentives are available in your area, visit the ENERGY STAR rebate finder at www.energystar.gov.

For additional information please visit your state energy office website for specific state tax information or go to www.dsireusa.org/ the database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency.

*Disclaimer: Solatube International and The Solar Guys are not tax advisors. Taxpayers claiming a tax credit should consult a tax professional with any questions. Solatube International and The Solar Guys are not responsible or liable for the taxpayer’s ability to receive tax credits. This document is not intended to constitute legal or tax advice. More comprehensive information will be made available by the IRS.

The user maintains the full and complete responsibility to comply with all codes, laws and regulations applicable to the safe and proper use, handling and installation of the product and should consult with a professional for all construction and design-related questions. The information contained herein is believed to be accurate as of the time of preparation. However, Solatube International and The Solar Guys make no warranty concerning the accuracy of this information.

Click here to download the Solar Star Manufacturer Certification Statement in .pdf format.