For a long time, buying solar power in Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming meant navigating and filing for the Federal Solar Tax Credit. But as the industry evolves and the Federal Solar Tax Credit officially ended for residential owners, older models don't always offer the best value for homeowners anymore.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we’ve introduced a smarter way to switch to clean energy: the solar prepaid lease. If you’ve been waiting for solar to "make sense" or were worried about the complexities of tax credits, this was designed for you.

What is a Prepaid Lease?

Think of leasing solar panels through a prepaid model as the "best of both worlds." You pay for your portion of the system upfront, but a third-party partner technically owns and maintains the equipment.

Because a large corporation owns the system for a time, it qualifies for commercial tax credits that aren't available to individuals. They then "kick back" half of that credit to you as an instant cash discount. This saves you 15%+ off the sticker price right at the beginning.

Why Skip the Tax Credit and Go Prepaid?

Many homeowners found the traditional tax credit process stressful. You had to have enough tax liability to claim it, and you often had to wait until the following year to see a dime of that money.

Many people were frustrated to learn they wouldn't get a check immediately, but rather a credit based on what they paid in taxes. It could be slow, confusing, and sometimes disappointing.

With our solar prepaid lease, the benefits are instant:

Feature Federal Tax Credits (Old Way) IWS Prepaid Lease (New Way)
Upfront Cost Full Price Discounted Price (15%+ Off)
Tax Credits You claim (must have liability) Applied instantly as a discount
Maintenance Homeowner responsibility Third-party monitored & maintained
Savings Timing After tax season Day One (Instant)

Is the Prepaid Lease Right for You?

The prepaid model is perfect for homeowners from Salt Lake City to Boise who want the maximum discount today without the headache of IRS forms. It’s a "set it and forget it" solution, you pay once upfront and lock in lower power bills for decades to come, and let the experts handle the technical monitoring.

If you’ve looked at solar power in Utah or batteries before and it didn't quite click, it’s time to look again. This new path removes the barriers and puts the savings directly into your pocket upfront.

Let’s Simplify Your Solar Journey

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we’re committed to making renewable energy easy and accessible. Whether you are leasing solar panels or looking for a custom install, our team is here to run the numbers and show you exactly how the prepaid model stacks up for your specific home.

Ready to see your "Instant Discount" price? Contact the IWS team today for a free, no-obligation quote. Let’s find out how much you can save without waiting for a tax return.

Frequently Asked Questions

A prepaid solar lease is a solar financing option where you make one upfront payment for your solar power system, then enjoy lower monthly electric bills for decades. A third-party partner temporarily owns and maintains the system, allowing you to receive instant savings instead of waiting on tax credits.
Yes. Prepaid solar leasing is available to homeowners across Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming, including areas like Salt Lake City, Ogden, Boise, Idaho Falls, Evanston, and surrounding communities. Availability may vary based on utility provider and system design.
With the federal residential solar tax credit no longer available to many homeowners, prepaid leasing offers a simpler alternative. Instead of filing IRS paperwork and waiting until tax season, homeowners receive 15%+ savings instantly as a discount applied at the start of the project.
Yes. While the biggest benefit is the upfront discount, homeowners also benefit from lower monthly power bills for 20–30 years. With no monthly solar payment and professional system monitoring included, prepaid leasing provides predictable, long-term energy savings.
Yes. Select home battery systems qualify for upfront savings when paired with a prepaid solar lease. This makes solar battery storage more affordable for homeowners who want backup power during outages or greater energy independence.
A third-party partner owns and maintains the system during the first six years of the lease. That means 24/7 monitoring, maintenance, and performance oversight are included, so homeowners can enjoy peace of mind without worrying about system upkeep.

With time running out for business owners to take advantage of the expiring 30% solar federal tax credits, the pressure is on. Under the 2025 "One Big Beautiful Bill," businesses must begin construction by July 4, 2026, to lock in those traditional federal incentives.

Because "beginning construction" now requires documented physical work and complex compliance, we wanted to offer a new alternative that removes the deadline stress entirely: the IWS Commercial Solar Prepaid Lease.

Two Paths to 2026 Savings: Which One Fits Your Business?

Path 1: The Traditional 30% Tax Credit

This is the path for businesses that want full ownership and have the tax liability to use a large credit.

Path 2: The IWS Solar Prepaid Lease (The "Hassle-Free" Alternative)

This is the path for businesses that want the savings of solar without the IRS paperwork or the July construction deadline.

Why the Prepaid Lease is the "Safety Net" for 2026 and Beyond

If your business cannot move fast enough to break ground by July, or if you simply don't want to deal with the liability of a federal tax audit, the solar prepaid lease ensures you still get a massive upfront discount.

Flexible Financing: Put Your Savings to Work Immediately

Even if you choose to finance the upfront cost of your Prepaid Lease, you are still ahead of the game.

The Cost of Waiting is Rising

The time to start planning your commercial solar power installation is now, not just because of the July deadline, but because utility rates in Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas are projected to continue their upward trend.

Every month you wait is a month you are paying 100% of your power bill to the utility company at a premium. By locking in a Prepaid Lease today, you stop the bleeding and start compounding your savings. The sooner you start, the sooner those savings hit your bottom line.

Don't Let the Window Close

Whether you are aiming for the full 30% credit or want to secure the 15% instant discount through our solar prepaid lease, the time to start planning your commercial solar power installation is now. As the July deadline approaches, installation queues in Salt Lake City and across the Intermountain West will fill up fast.

Ready to see which option saves your business the most money?

Contact Intermountain Wind & Solar today for a custom side-by-side comparison of the 30% Tax Credit vs. our 15% Prepaid Lease.

Calculate Your Solar Savings

Energy costs have been rising quickly around most of the country in the last few years, and homeowners are regularly looking for ways to limit these costs without sacrificing comfort. Solar panels are a top example of such an approach, helping homeowners lower their energy costs while also contributing to a more sustainable, eco-friendly world.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're proud to offer the best residential and commercial solar panel services available in the Boise, Idaho, and Salt Lake City, Utah areas. We've helped numerous clients in both states achieve fantastic solar energy savings, and we're here to do the same for you! Here are some of the simple ways solar panels help lock in your energy costs and bring you significant energy savings for years to come.

Solar Panels and Locking in Energy Costs

For those who are currently still obtaining power from their local utility, you're likely well aware that costs can fluctuate significantly. These unexpected spikes in energy bills can be a major financial burden for households and businesses alike. However, by switching to solar panels, you eliminate this uncertainty and lock in your energy costs for the long term.

Solar panels generate clean, renewable energy that is not subject to the same price fluctuations as fossil fuels. This means that once your solar panel system is installed, you can expect a steady rate of energy production and predictable energy costs for years to come.

Role of Batteries in Solar Energy Savings

One key component in maximizing the savings from solar energy is the use of batteries. Batteries store excess energy generated by your solar panels during the day, allowing you to use that stored energy at night or on cloudy days. This reduces your reliance on the electricity grid and further lowers your energy costs.

In addition, battery technology has advanced significantly in recent years, making them more affordable and efficient than ever before. With a properly sized battery system, you can significantly reduce your dependence on traditional electricity sources and maximize your savings from solar energy.

Long-Term ROI Hypothetical

Let's look at a basic hypothetical for how solar panels can help create significant energy savings over time. Let's say you install a 5kW solar panel system on your roof, which costs around $15,000 after tax incentives. Assuming an average daily electricity usage of 30 kWh and the current average electricity rate of $0.13 per kWh, your monthly electricity bill would be approximately $117.

However, with solar panels generating clean energy for your household, you could potentially offset up to 80% of your energy needs from the grid. This means that instead of paying $117 each month for electricity, you would only pay about $23 per month.

Over the course of a year, this adds up to significant savings - around $1,128 in just one year! This means the system would pay itself off in just a few years, and then continue to save you money for the rest of its lifespan.

Importance of Quality Solar Panel Materials and Installation

If solar energy savings are among your top priorities, it's crucial to invest in quality solar panel materials and expert installation. High-quality panels will generate more electricity and last longer, giving you maximum savings over time. Additionally, proper installation ensures that your panels are positioned correctly to capture the most sunlight.

Good quality solar panels are usually made with durable materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions and resist corrosion. This means less maintenance and repair costs for you in the long run.

Investing in professional installation also guarantees that your system is set up correctly according to industry standards. Improperly installed systems may not work efficiently, resulting in lower energy production and potentially higher utility bills than expected. In fact, poor installation is one of the top reasons for solar panel failure.

Another important consideration when it comes to solar panels is their efficiency. Efficiency refers to the percentage of sunlight that a solar panel can convert into electricity. The higher the efficiency, the more energy your system can produce. It's recommended to choose solar panels with an efficiency rating of at least 15%.

Intermountain Wind & Solar is Here to Help

If you're looking for quality solar energy savings through solar panel installation, Intermountain Wind & Solar is here to help. Our team of experts has over 25 years of experience in the renewable energy industry, and we have installed thousands of solar systems throughout Idaho and Utah.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how solar energy can benefit your home or business. We provide customized solutions based on your specific needs and budget, ensuring you get the most out of your investment in solar panels. Our team will handle every aspect of the installation process, from design and permitting to final inspection and activation.

Recently in this space, we discussed the likelihood of changes to government programs that would result in the end of the 30% federal solar tax credit at the end of 2025. Those changes appear to be confirmed; what is expected in terms of the general timeline here, and what should you be thinking about if you're looking to install solar panels on your home and take advantage of the credit while it still remains?

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to offer a wide variety of solar panel services for clients around Utah and Idaho, including important information on tax credits and other residential solar incentives - including the solar tax credit ending in 2025. Here are some basics on the 30% federal solar tax credit ending and the timelines involved, plus a few additional factors to consider.

Confirming Timeline

Sadly, it does not appear that any major changes have taken place in the months since it was first announced that President Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill would include a stipulation to end the 30% federal solar tax credit at the end of 2025. All signs point to this timeline being accurate and still in effect, meaning that homeowners have a limited amount of time to take advantage of the full tax credit.

What is the Solar Tax Credit?

The solar tax credit, also known as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), is a federal incentive for residential and commercial solar energy systems. It allows individuals or businesses to deduct 30% of the cost of installing a solar system from their federal taxes. This has been a major benefit for homeowners looking to switch to renewable energy sources, as it significantly reduces the overall cost of installation.

However, residential clients will now only have a few months left to take advantage of this credit.

Grandfathering

One small positive here: A grandfathering effect is in place, meaning that if you install your solar panel system before the end of 2025, you will be able to take advantage of the full tax credit moving forward. This allows homeowners some leeway in terms of timing, but it is still important to act sooner rather than later.

System Operational Or Simply Ordered?

There is still some remaining confusion about whether a solar panel system must be fully installed and operational by December 31, 2025 for the owner to be eligible for the 30% federal solar tax credit - or whether the system simply must be purchased and agreed to by this date to qualify. Because of the uncertainty here, we are recommending that homeowners assume the former and plan to have their system up and running by this date.

While there may be some debate over the wording of the tax credit's requirements, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to such a significant financial opportunity.

Ensuring Eligibility

If you're thinking about trying to beat this deadline and install a solar panel system before the solar tax credit ends at the completion of 2025, you'll need to do more than just scheduling your installation with a solar panel installer.

The IRS has set certain eligibility requirements that homeowners must meet in order to claim the tax credit. These include:

Other Incentives Remain

It's important to realize that even as the federal tax credit winds down, there are still plenty of other incentives available for homeowners who invest in solar energy systems. Many states offer their own tax credits and rebates, as do local utility companies. These can often be combined with the federal tax credit to significantly reduce the overall cost of a solar system.

Additionally, some municipalities offer property tax exemptions for homes with solar installations, further lowering the long-term financial burden. And don't forget about the potential savings on electricity bills once your system is up and running - these can add up to thousands of dollars over the lifetime of your solar panels.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to help clients understand the changing residential solar incentives within our industry. Contact us today for help with solar panel services, tax breaks or other incentives around Utah or Idaho!

There are a few major reasons why more and more people are installing solar power setups in their homes today, and one that's always high on this list is the need to stay powered even when the electrical grid is down. For the most effective possible setup here, you need both solar panels themselves and a solar battery backup system.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to offer not just a wide variety of solar panel installation services around Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho areas, but also solar battery backup solutions to ensure your solar energy is stored for use at important times - such as when the grid is down. Here's how a solar plus solar battery backup system keeps you powered no matter what is going on with your local electrical infrastructure.

Solar Panels and Excess Energy

For those just learning about how solar panels work, they are designed to absorb energy from sunlight and convert it into electricity. During peak daylight hours, a solar panel system can generate more electricity than is needed for your home or business.

This excess energy doesn't need to be wasted, however. It can be stored using a solar battery backup system. These batteries store the excess energy for later use, such as during nighttime or on cloudy days when there is less sunlight available. This allows you to depend less on traditional electricity from the grid and rely more on clean, renewable energy from the sun.

Benefits of Solar Battery Backup

There are many benefits to having a solar battery backup system integrated with your solar panel system. One of the main benefits is increased energy independence. With a solar battery backup, you can reduce your reliance on traditional electricity sources, which are often subject to power outages and fluctuations in prices.

Having a backup source of energy also provides peace of mind in case of emergencies or natural disasters. In situations where there is a power outage, your home can continue to run on stored solar energy, keeping you and your family safe and comfortable.

Another benefit of a solar battery backup is the potential for cost savings. By storing excess solar energy during peak production times, such as sunny days, you can use that stored energy during high demand periods when electricity prices are typically higher. This can result in significant savings on your monthly electricity bill.

Furthermore, using a solar battery backup system can also contribute to a more sustainable future. By relying less on traditional electricity sources and utilizing clean, renewable energy from the sun, we can reduce our carbon footprint and help combat climate change.

Real-Life Scenarios Where Solar Battery Backups Add Value

There are a few common examples of how solar battery backups can add value to your daily life:

Proper Battery Sizing

Now, one important factor to consider when installing a solar battery backup is the sizing of battery you need. If you're installing a battery that will help power your entire home, you'll need a larger battery compared to one that is just meant for essential appliances.

For instance, some homeowners choose to install a battery specifically meant for certain appliances, such as a fridge or water heater. This allows them to have backup power for those specific devices without having to invest in a larger, more expensive battery.

However, if you want to have backup power for your entire home, it's important to properly size the battery and consider factors such as the average daily energy usage of your household, peak energy demands, and potential weather conditions that may affect solar panel efficiency.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're happy to help with both solar and storage systems for clients across Utah and Idaho. Contact us today to get started!

While you might be most familiar with the presence of solar panels on residential homes, they are not limited to this setting by any means. Solar power setups can also be created on various commercial buildings - is adopting solar energy the right approach for your business?

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're proud to serve as one of the top solar companies across Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho areas, offering a wide range of both residential and commercial solar power services to clients around both states. Here are some of the key benefits that many businesses find from utilizing solar panels, plus some major factors to look into as you determine whether solar energy might be a prudent approach for your business.

Benefits of Solar Power for Businesses

There are several potential benefits of utilizing solar panels at your business location, including:

Factors to Consider for Your Business

Is a move to solar power a prudent one for your business? Here are a few chief areas to be looking into as you attempt to answer this question.

Solar Suitability

One of the first and most important things to consider is whether your site/building is suitable for solar power. Factors that can affect suitability include the building's orientation, roof pitch, and shading from trees or other buildings. A professional solar energy company can perform a site assessment to determine if solar is a viable option for your business.

Energy Usage

Another key factor to consider is your business's energy usage. The more electricity you consume, the greater potential there is for cost savings through solar power. If your business operates during peak daylight hours, you may see significant reductions in your energy bills by switching to solar.

Costs and Savings

Investing in solar power requires an upfront investment, but it can also lead to long-term cost savings. Solar panels have a lifespan of 25-30 years and require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective option in the long run. Additionally, many governments offer incentives and tax breaks for businesses that switch to renewable energy sources such as solar.

Environmental Impact

Switching to solar power can also have a positive impact on the environment. Traditional electricity production relies on fossil fuels, which contribute to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. By using solar power, your business can reduce its carbon footprint and help combat climate change.

Backup Power

In addition to providing your business with renewable energy, solar panels can also serve as backup power during emergencies or outages. This added benefit can provide peace of mind for business owners, knowing that their operations will not be affected by power outages.

Worthwhile for Brand Image?

Another important consideration when determining whether to install solar panels on your business building is the positive impact it can have on your brand image. As more and more consumers are prioritizing sustainability and environmental responsibility, having solar panels can be seen as a responsible and forward-thinking choice for your business. This can not only attract environmentally conscious customers, but also improve your reputation in the community.

As you can see, there are a few key factors to be evaluating if you're considering installing solar panels on your business building. Ultimately, the decision will depend on a variety of factors specific to your business and location. However, with the potential cost savings, environmental benefits, and positive impact on brand image, it's certainly worth considering as an option for powering your business.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're proud to offer a wide range of commercial solar power services to clients around Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho areas. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business harness the power of the sun and make a positive impact for your company and our planet.

As electric vehicles have become more common across the last several years, so has the increase in EV charging stations - including at home. Home EV chargers are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among homeowners who already own an existing solar panel system; what does the future hold here?

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to offer the very best solar energy services available around Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho areas, including EV charger installation services to help power your electric vehicle with solar energy. EV charger products will only become more powerful and effective as technology continues to improve; here are some of the ways our experts expect it to evolve in the upcoming years.

Simple Availability

One of the simplest ways that EV charger technology is expected to evolve is by becoming more readily available. And while this is certainly the case for public charger stations, the rise could be even starker for home EV chargers.

This is because, as electric cars become more prolific and mainstream, home charging stations are already starting to make more economic sense. As the cost of EVs decreases due to advancements in technology and increased competition, more people are now able to afford them. This will inevitably lead to a higher demand for at-home chargers.

Furthermore, with the development of wireless charging technology and more compact charger designs, home EV chargers have become even easier to install and use nowadays. This means that individuals who may have been hesitant about purchasing an electric car due to concerns about access to charging options no longer have this barrier.

Increased Efficiency

Another area where experts anticipate significant growth in home EV chargers is in increased efficiency. As mentioned earlier, the cost of traditional fuel vehicles is on the rise, making electric cars a more attractive option for many consumers. In addition to this, advancements in battery technology have made it possible for EVs to travel longer distances on a single charge. This means that owning an electric car no longer has to be seen as a compromise when it comes to range and convenience.

And with a solar EV charger in place in your garage at home, this convenience is boosted even further. By harnessing renewable energy from the sun, EV owners can reduce their reliance on traditional electricity sources and save money on their overall energy bills.

Expanded Capacity

One key way home EV chargers are expected to become more advanced is through expanded capacity. This means that chargers will be able to deliver more power at a faster rate, allowing EVs to charge in significantly less time.

This expanded capacity will also enable multiple vehicles to charge simultaneously, making it easier for households with more than one electric car. With the ability to deliver higher power outputs, home EV chargers will also become compatible with larger battery capacities, meaning that future generations of electric cars can take advantage of this technology and travel longer distances on a single charge.

Wireless Charging

Another possible advancement in EV charging technology is the development of wireless charging. This involves using electromagnetic induction to transfer energy from a charging pad on the ground to a receiver on the bottom of an electric car, eliminating the need for physical cords and plugs.

Wireless EV charging has already been successfully implemented in some public transportation systems, such as buses and trams. However, there are challenges that still need to be addressed before it can become widely available for personal electric cars. These include increasing efficiency and reducing costs associated with the technology.

However, once these obstacles are overcome, wireless charging could greatly improve convenience and accessibility for EV owners. The ability to charge without having to physically connect to a charger would make owning an electric car even more convenient than owning a traditional gas-powered vehicle.

Vehicle-to-Grid Technology

Today, most commercially sold EV chargers take alternating current (AC) and turn it into direct current (DC) for storage, eventually moving this energy from the grid (which also includes your solar panel setup, in this setting) to your vehicle. But advances are also being made in vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, which would allow EVs to send energy back to the grid during peak times of demand.

This could help stabilize and balance the grid, reduce strain on power plants, and potentially even earn EV owners some extra money. These programs may also include features to slow the charging process for EVs to avoid using power during peak hours, helping stabilize the entire grid.

Overall, the advancements in electric vehicle charging technology are crucial for increasing the adoption and use of EVs. With faster charging times, wireless charging options, and V2G technology, owning an electric car is becoming more convenient and accessible than ever before.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to help with all your EV charger installation needs around Utah and Idaho. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you make the switch to electric vehicles.

Cost savings is naturally a regular topic when it comes to your home's energy use, and users of solar energy systems can experience a few different benefits here. One great example is the use of a solar battery backup, which can save you money in a few specific ways.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to offer an unmatched range of solar power services to clients around Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho areas, including home battery installation featuring top products like the Tesla Powerwall, Enphase battery backup and more. Here are some basics from our professionals on how a solar battery backup helps save you money in multiple different ways, and why such an addition might be ideal for your solar energy setup.

How Do Solar Battery Backups Work?

For those just learning about solar power and solar battery backups, the concept may seem a bit confusing. After all, isn't the whole point of solar energy to be off-grid and self-sustaining? While that is true to an extent, it's important to remember that most residential solar systems are still connected to the traditional power grid. This allows homeowners to use electricity from their utility company when needed and sell any excess energy back to the grid for credit.

So where do battery backups come into play? Solar battery backups act as a storage system for any excess energy produced by your solar panels. Instead of sending it back to the grid, this extra energy is stored in the batteries for later use. During times when your home is not producing enough solar energy (such as at night or on cloudy days), the battery can then be used to power your home. This reduces your reliance on the traditional power grid and allows you to use more of the clean, renewable energy from your own solar panels.

Cost-Savings Benefits of a Solar Battery Backup

There are several cost-based benefits to having a solar battery backup system:

Control Over Energy Usage

One of the chief benefits of a solar battery backup is the control it gives you over your energy usage. By storing excess energy generated by your solar panels, you can use it during peak hours when electricity rates are at their highest. This can result in significant cost savings on your electric bill.

Reduced Reliance on Traditional Power Grid

As mentioned earlier, having a solar battery backup reduces your reliance on the traditional power grid. This means that during power outages or blackouts, you will still have access to electricity as long as your batteries are charged.

Long-Term Savings

While the initial cost of installing a solar battery backup system may seem expensive, it can actually lead to long-term savings. With rising utility costs, having a solar battery backup can help you avoid paying high electricity bills in the future. Additionally, some states offer tax incentives and rebates for installing solar panels and batteries, further reducing the overall cost.

Environmental Benefits

Using renewable energy sources like solar power can also have a positive impact on the environment. Solar energy produces no greenhouse gas emissions, making it a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels. By using a solar battery backup system, you are helping reduce your carbon footprint and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Increased Home Value

Installing a solar battery backup system can also increase the value of your home. As more people become environmentally conscious and seek out eco-friendly homes, having a solar-powered home with a battery backup system can be a major selling point. In fact, studies have shown that homes with solar panels installed can sell for higher prices and at a faster rate than non-solar homes.

Additionally, having a backup system in place adds an extra layer of security and reliability to your home's energy source, making it even more appealing to potential buyers. This can also save you money in the long run by reducing the time your home spends on the market.

Importance of Quality Installation

To realize optimal cost savings from any solar battery backup, quality professional installation is crucial. Poor installation can lead to system inefficiencies, malfunctions, and even safety hazards.

A qualified solar panel installer will ensure that your backup system is properly integrated into your existing solar array and home's electrical system. They will also take into account factors such as local climate, shading, and load requirements to determine the best location for your backup storage unit.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to offer the very best home battery installation services available around Utah and Idaho. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve cost savings and peace of mind with a backup battery storage system.

There are a few major financial areas of our lives where thinking well in advance is often prudent, and taxes are a great example. Many of the financial actions you take this year will impact your taxes the following year, and solar installation for commercial or residential solar power is no exception.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to serve as one of the top solar companies across Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho areas, assisting clients with solar installation and various related services to help with affordable power rates, sustainability and more. We also provide services to assist with important concepts like solar financing and solar tax incentives. Here are some basics on why buying solar in 2025 is a smart move for your 2026 taxes.

The Federal Residential Solar Tax Credit

We'll use the federal solar tax credit, which is abbreviated ITC, as our example for this blog. As of now, the ITC allows homeowners and businesses alike to claim up to 30% of their solar installation costs as a tax credit.

This 30% number is meant to remain until 2033, when it will drop to 26% and then eventually be phased out entirely by 2035. One note, however: The incoming Trump Administration has indicated attempts to pause several forms of funding, including some that may impact the ITC. While the 2025 credit is not expected to be impacted, it's important to check back on this space in the future.

ITC Eligibility

There are some basic criteria for ITC eligibility:

When to File

When filing the ITC, it's important to note both the solar installation date and the permission to operate (PTO) date from your utility grid. This PTO date will often be a few weeks after your system is installed, and it signifies that your solar panels are now connected and producing energy for the grid.

The IRS requires you to claim the credit in the tax year that the PTO date falls within, even if your system was installed in a previous year. For example, if your system is installed in December 2025 but receives PTO in January 2026, you would file for the ITC on your 2026 taxes.

However, there is an exception for residential solar systems. If your system was installed and PTO received after January 1st, but before December 31st of a given tax year, you may choose to claim the credit on either that year's taxes or the following year's.

How to Claim

Here are the basic steps to claiming the ITC:

See the Results on Next Year's Return

Once you've claimed the ITC on your taxes, you should see the results reflected on next year's tax return. The credit will be applied as a reduction to your overall tax liability, meaning you may owe less in taxes or receive a larger refund.

So there you have it! With basic knowledge and proper documentation, you can successfully claim solar installation taxes in 2025 and see the benefits on your return in 2026!

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to help clients with all their solar power needs, including solar tax incentives and rebates. For more on any of our solar installation or related solar power services around SLC, Utah and Boise, Idaho, contact us today!

There are a few different financial considerations to keep in mind with regard to solar panel systems, and various tax and other incentives or rebates are definitely on this list. While there is a major Federal Solar Tax Credit that you should definitely be trying to take advantage of, each state will also have its own set of local credits and rebates - and Utah is no exception.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, as one of the top solar energy companies around Utah, we're here to help with everything from solar panel installation and maintenance to solar financing, solar panel tax credits and more. Here are some important tips on ensuring you take advantage of all of Utah's available credits and rebates while also obtaining clean, environmentally friendly solar energy.

Utah Solar Tax Credit is Sadly Over

Sadly, one of the largest incentives for solar panel installation in Utah recently came to an end. The state's Solar Tax Credit program, which offered a significant tax credit of up to $1600 for homeowners and small businesses with solar installations, expired at the end of 2023.

However, this should not discourage you from considering solar energy as a viable option for your home or business. There are still many other incentives and rebates available that can help make going solar more affordable and financially beneficial in the long run.

Federal Solar Tax Credit

The Federal Solar Tax Credit, also known as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), is one of the most significant incentives available for renewable energy systems in the United States. This credit allows you to deduct 30% of the total cost of your solar panel system from your federal taxes. This credit applies to both residential and commercial properties and has no cap on its value.

It's important to note, however, that this credit will eventually run out as well. It is set to begin phasing out in 2033, so the earlier you take advantage of it, the better.

Rocky Mountain Power Wattsmart Battery Program

Rocky Mountain Power, the primary electricity provider for Utah residents, offers a Wattsmart battery program that can help offset the cost of solar panel installation. This program provides rebates for batteries that are installed with solar systems, which can greatly increase your energy independence and savings.

Rocky Mountain Power recently made some changes to this system, so it's important to check with them and your solar panel specialists for more information.

Grant Programs

There are both federal and state grant programs available for Utah residents and businesses looking to install solar panels. These grants can significantly reduce the upfront cost of your solar panel system and help make renewable energy accessible to all.

Net Metering

Another important financial consideration for solar panel systems is net metering. This allows you to sell excess energy generated by your solar panels back to the grid, further reducing your energy bills.

In Utah, net metering is a partial net metering program through Rocky Mountain Power that provides a reduced credit for excess power generated. You will not get equivalent credit for your exported energy, so it's important to speak with your solar panel specialists about the best options for monitoring and managing your energy usage.

How to Leverage These Options

As mentioned earlier, it's important to work with a reputable solar panel company like Intermountain Wind & Solar to ensure you are taking full advantage of all available financial incentives in Utah. Our team can help you navigate the various options and determine the best approach for your specific situation.

In addition, make sure to research and stay updated on any changes or updates to these programs. By carefully planning and leveraging these incentives, you can greatly reduce the cost of going solar and enjoy the long-term benefits of clean, renewable energy for your home or business.

Value of Working With Professionals

This is one area where working with professionals like Intermountain Wind & Solar is crucial. Our team has extensive knowledge and experience in solar panel installation, financing, and tax incentives specific to Utah.

We can help you maximize your savings and ensure a smooth process from start to finish. Plus, by investing in a high-quality solar panel system installed by professionals, you can also expect long-term cost savings on energy bills and maintenance.

In conclusion, while the Utah Solar Tax Credit may have come to an end, there are still plenty of financial incentives and programs available for residents and businesses looking to go solar in Utah. By staying informed and working with trusted professionals like Intermountain Wind & Solar, you can take advantage of these options and make the switch to clean, renewable energy.

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