Tax Perks for Energy Efficiency: What You Need to Know

Are you looking to make your home more energy efficient? Learn about the Clean Energy Residential Real Estate Credit and other tax incentives available for energy-efficient improvements.

Tax Perks for Energy Efficiency: What You Need to Know

Are you looking to make your home more energy efficient? If so, you may be eligible for some tax perks. The Clean Energy Residential Real Estate Credit is a 30 percent credit for certain qualifying expenses incurred by a taxpayer on energy-efficient residential properties. This includes the installation of heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, insulation, doors and windows, as well as improvements to electrical panels, home energy audits and more. These improvements can help families save money on their monthly energy bills for years to come. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has increased the tax credit from 26 percent for solar panels and installation to 30 percent over the next 10 years.

After that, it will be reduced to 26 percent in 2033 and 22 percent in 2034 before being eliminated completely unless Congress extends it. To qualify for the credit, you must install the energy-efficient property in your primary residence. The property must meet certain standards set by the IRS. Additionally, the credit is only available for new construction or existing homes that have been substantially renovated. The credit is also limited to $500 per year. This means that if you spend more than $500 on qualifying energy-efficient improvements, you will not be able to claim the full amount of the credit.

However, any unused portion of the credit can be carried forward to future tax years. In addition to the Clean Energy Residential Real Estate Credit, there are other tax incentives available for energy-efficient improvements. For example, some states offer tax credits or deductions for installing solar panels or other renewable energy sources. Additionally, some local governments offer incentives such as property tax abatements or reduced utility rates. Making your home more energy efficient can help you save money on your monthly energy bills and may even qualify you for some tax perks. Be sure to check with your local government and the IRS to find out what incentives are available in your area.

Elise Ledwig
Elise Ledwig

Passionate pop culture fan. Professional twitter junkie. Proud explorer. Typical tv expert. Passionate beer advocate.