Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (30%) Buy a new home solar system, and you will be eligible for the 30% federal tax credit. A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the amount of income tax you would otherwise owe. This credit also applies to energy storage systems that are charged by your solar system.

Virginia Clean Economy Act (VCEA) In Virginia, homeowners can earn money from the electricity their systems produce by selling Renewable Energy Credits (RECs).

Net Metering Net metering is a program that requires your electric company to purchase excess electricity your solar panels produce. For example, your system may produce more electricity on a typical sunny day than your home consumes. When solar production exceeds usage, the utility meter will “spin” backward and provide you with credits. These credits can then be used when the solar system is not producing electricity, such as at night. In Virginia, when your solar system produces more electricity than you use, you will be compensated at the full retail value of the electricity.

Property Tax Exclusion The State of Virginia provides the option for any county, city, or town to exempt or partially exempt solar energy equipment and recycling equipment from local property taxes.

This guide provides an overview of the different federal, state, and local incentives available to those interested in residential solar. It does not constitute professional tax advice or other professional financial guidance. This overview should not be used as your only source of information. Other sources should be consulted when making purchasing, investment, and tax decisions; or while executing other binding agreements.