The confusing and murky world of solar rebates and incentives may seem daunting at first. Stick with it and once you know what type of system you want you can zero in on everything that is available for you or your business.

2011 Money Train

1) Tax Credits

a.  30% dollar for dollar tax credit

b.  30% grant for commercial

2) Solar Renewable Energy Credits ( SRECs)

a.  Tradable energy commodities that represent 1 mega watt of power produced

b.  Worth $250-650 bucks depending on where you live

c.  Not available in all states

3) Solar Power Purchase Agreements ( SPPA’s)

a.  3^rd parties installs and maintains a solar system

b.  3^rd parties receive all tax credit and incentives

c.  Home owner gets a locked in low rate for next 15-20 years

4)  MACRS Accelerated Depreciation

5-year accelerated depreciation under the IRS' Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System. Inexplicably, though solar power equipment is considered a 5-year asset, fully depreciating it takes six years.

5)1603 Program: Payments for Specified Energy Property in Lieu of Tax Credits (30% grant paid in full 60 days after you go online )

Government grant incentive program that allows up to 30% of the cost of solar panel systems. To be eligible for the grant program before it expires; you must enter into a contract for a solar panel system and pay at least 5% of the cost.

ALL ABOARD ................$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

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