As you research the best solar incentives for your home or business, you’ll quickly learn that there is quite a bit of change from one state to the next regarding program offerings and options. Unfortunately, the state of Delaware’s solar rebates is not all that great. However, if you are looking for all of the best Delaware solar incentives, our guide will provide the following:
- Why solar installations make sense
- Rebates to help you save money on your solar system
- Tax incentives that can help make a solar system possible
The good news about the state of Delaware are the local SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Credits), Interconnection discounts, and overall incentives offered by local electric utility companies. If you are ready to look at more localized options, you may find the state of Delaware to be a good option for going solar.
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Why Go Solar in Delaware?
Delaware currently ranks 41st in the nation according to SEIA for being solar-friendly. One of the main reasons that Delaware ranks so far down the list is the lack of incentives and the eligibility requirements for existing incentives. However, if you can afford the cost of solar energy panels, the renewable resources you create will be well worth it.
Delaware homeowners go solar to save money on their electric utility bills and want to create green energy in the state and improve the renewable portfolio standard. Whether you are a business or residential property in Delaware, there is no denying that solar electricity will be the way of the future.
Programs in Delaware by the DNREC have a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) and will continue to push for more solar-powered properties and homes in the state. Even though Delaware is not known for being the best state for solar power, the steps are in place to improve this.
Delaware Solar Cost
Delaware solar costs range from $16,000 to $24,000 for a whole home system. When looking at a photovoltaic (PV system), the size of your home will also come into play. As you add more panels, the inverter will also be modified to improve the system’s functionality.
The solar costs in Delaware have started to go down a little because of incentives from local governments for both business and commercial installations. However, when you shop for a Delaware solar system, you must ensure you have researched before the installation to make your solar panel investment worth it.
Some of these rebates and incentives require a specific installer or unit to be installed. Recuperating your money after a solar installation can be a bit troublesome if you don’t follow the recommendations set forth by these programs.
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How Much Can You Save on Solar in Delaware?
In the state of Delaware, the total amount you can save with the federal tax rebate program for a new solar power system is around $5,000. Unfortunately, there is no state-level rebate to help improve the overall costs of the solar system in Delaware. However, some excellent programs for homeowners and business owners to get involved in can help them save money on loans or use the products year after year.
The Best Solar Incentives, Tax Credits, and Rebates in Delaware
The best solar incentive in Delaware is the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This program is a great way to help homeowners keep energy costs down and also get a sizable tax return the year they put their system in place. After the federal program, the best thing to look for is the local programs created by some Delaware utility providers.
| Incentive | Summary | End Date |
| Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC) | Delaware residents can take advantage of the Federal Solar Tax Credit and get a discount of 30% applied to their tax returns. If you purchase $20,000 worth of solar panels, you can get a credit of $6,000 on your next tax return. Remember, this does require you to come out of pocket first. | December 31st, 2032 |
| Net Metering | Net metering allows homeowners that create excess energy to use it as a credit on their next electric bill. Net metering in Delaware is a strong program allowing people the retail rates of electricity when they bank excess. | None |
| Commercial Loan Programs | For government and commercial solar installations in Delaware, there are various programs to help improve overall rates and availability of funds. Some of these can help with loans over $100,000. | None |
| Delaware No Sales Tax | The state of Delaware does not have sales tax, so you will save yourself hundreds, if not thousands of dollars on sales tax. | None |
Featured Video: Learn How Solar Energy Has Gotten So Cheap
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The Federal Solar Investment Tax credit is available in all 50 states, Delaware included. This program will discount your next federal tax return based on your home solar installation cost. As great as this program is in the state of Delaware, it is a temporary option that will not be available for all that much longer.
The national solar tax credit allows you a tax credit of 30% of the cost of your solar installation. The solar system will need to be paid out of pocket and in full, with credit being returned and filed against any taxes you owe for that year. Some homeowners that don’t owe taxes will be able to carry this credit over for several years. You can speak to a tax accountant about the specifics of this. At any rate, this tax rebate program was extended through the end of 2032 as a part of the Inflation Reduction Act.
Delaware Solar Energy Tax Credit
Delaware does not have a solar energy tax credit or rebate. Some states have an additional savings program that can be very beneficial and help save, but Delaware only keeps their rebate or tax credit to the federal level.
Delaware offers an SREC program that allows homeowners to earn money for the energy they can produce on their own. Large utilities in the state are collecting most of the available SRECs, making it hard for homeowners to get involved in this game.
Net metering is a much better option for Delaware residents.
Delaware Solar Sales Tax Exemption
Delaware does not have a sales tax. Therefore commercial and residential purchasers of solar-powered systems will not have to pay sales tax on their solar panels or the installation. This huge benefit does not happen across other states, and it could save you thousands of dollars on your installation. You check out our essential solar tax exemption guide for detailed information.
Delaware Solar Property Tax Exemption
Property taxes will increase with the installation of a solar system in Delaware. Unfortunately, there is currently no program to help lower homeowners’ property taxes when installing a solar power system in the state of Delaware.
The good news is that property taxes typically go up over time and not all at once; you can keep an eye on this and prepare for it financially.
Delaware Net Metering
Delaware net metering is one of the state’s better policies. Some programs require utility companies to offer net metering, and the rate they pay per kilowatt hour is the same as the retail rate. With Delaware net metering, you can stockpile electricity you don’t use on certain days and get it back free of charge on the days you need it.
Sometimes on a cloudy day, you may struggle to have the energy to run your air conditioner or your washing machine. Luckily with net metering, it still may not cost you much to keep your house up and running. This is one of the most beneficial reasons to install a solar power system in Delaware.
Delmarva Power: Green Energy Program Incentives
As we mentioned, there are quite a few local programs in Delaware that can help you save money on your solar panel installation. One of these is the Delmarva Power Green Energy Program Incentives. This is available to residential homeowners in Delaware.
The program provides Solar PV, Wind, and Solar Water Heating rebates. With a Solar PV residential system, expect to save $.70/W. There are also additional savings for Solar Water Heating of $1/kWh. These programs have requirements that must be in place before earning anything. In addition, you may have to have the system installed by a qualified professional for it to be eligible.
Delaware Electric Cooperative: Green Energy Program Incentives
The Delaware Electric Cooperative Green Energy Program Incentives are for Solar Thermal, PV, and even Geothermal energy solutions. With the PV system, expect $2,000 for Class A and $2,500 for Class B; with Solar Thermal, you can get $2,500 for residential.
These systems must have a warranty in place and typically need to be installed by a participating contractor. Some programs allow for self-installation, but this must be discussed before the installation. Again, researching will make you eligible for much more in Delaware.
Commercial Delaware Solar Incentives
The commercial Delaware solar incentives are strong and will allow for a few extra benefits and loan programs that the residential programs do not offer. Delaware is a good place to be if a solar panel system could help your company or business with its green initiatives. Like residential, don’t expect a state-level tax incentive, as you won’t find one.
Solar Incentives for Nonprofits and Businesses in Delaware
There are no specific solar incentives for nonprofit organizations in the state of Delaware. However, there are tax relief programs for nonprofits and loan funding programs that will apply to nonprofits and businesses. Some experts will tell you that local governments and nonprofits have access to even more long-term savings than residents in Delaware.
USDA REAP Grant
The United States Department of Agriculture offers a REAP grant or Rural Energy for America program. Agricultural producers are important members of the economy, and certain savings programs are in place to help them save money on significant investments like solar energy.
The USDA Reap Grant ensures loan financing and grant funding for agricultural producers. The USDA will work with you from the start of your research into solar installations and ensure they secure financing for you.
Federal Solar Tax Credit for Businesses in Delaware
For a federal corporate income tax return, there is a 30% credit against the cost of any system that was placed into the building during that year. The Federal Solar Tax Credit is the best way for state residents to save money, and is now in place through the end of 2032. This program is typically easily combined with others available to Delaware business owners.
Delaware Commercial Net Metering
The net metering program in Delaware is one of the best in the nation. This is where you will notice the majority of your money savings long term. If your business still needs help from the grid on certain days, you will get full retail value for any excess energy you produce.
With the impressive quality of the net metering in Delaware, it makes sense to get a large enough system to support your building and benefit from the days when you produce excess energy. Having a professional come and look at the requirements of the system you need will certainly help ensure you benefit from net metering.
Delmarva Power: Green Energy Program Incentives
Delmarva Power has a green energy program incentive that applies to commercial properties in Delaware. With the non-residential systems, you will get $.50/W. However, non-profit institutions can expect $1.40/W. This is where you see the non-profit institutions benefit from going solar.
Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU): Revolving Loan Fund
Commercial property owners and business owners looking to fund a solar installation can look to the SEU for some help. The business’s credit history must be strong, with financial statements and references in place.
The fund allows for ten years to pay the loan back for amounts over $25,000. In addition, the interest rates are typically quite fair and will range between 50-100% of Municipal Bond Yields. If you want to invest in energy savings but aren’t sure how to afford them, the Sustainable Energy Utility Revolving Loan Fund is a great choice.
Green Grant: Solar Hot Water and Geothermal program
Green Grand Solar Hot Water and Geothermal program is another option available to commercial properties and business owners in Delaware. This allows for discounts on solar water heating of up to $1.0 per kWh saved. Again, we also see an increase in savings for the Non Profit in this situation, with $1.5 per kWh saved.
More Delaware Resources
- Top Delaware Solar Companies
- Best Home Warranties in Delaware
- Best Delaware Roofers
- Top Moving Companies in Delaware
Final Thoughts: The Best Delaware Solar Incentives
As you can see from our guide, the solar incentives in Delaware may not be as straightforward and upfront as they are in other states. However, they have improved over the years, and more options continue to be offered. The best solar incentive in Delaware still is the federal program, but the net metering policies are also quite helpful. If you are new to the solar panel concept, check with your local government first to see if any new programs are in the works.
FAQs about Delaware Solar Incentives
Is solar worth it in Delaware?
Solar in Delaware is worth it to help you save money and ensure you are producing clean energy for a more sustainable environment. There is something quite powerful about being able to move off the grid, and many homeowners and business owners in Delaware are enjoying this concept.
How much does it cost for solar panels in Delaware?
Solar panels in Delaware will typically cost around $20,000 to $24,000. This depends on how much energy your home needs to create and the current electric bill. A local expert can tell you how much the solar panels will cost and what they will save you.
Can you get solar panels for free in Delaware?
Solar panels are not offered for free in Delaware. There are rebates from the federal government and net metering programs to help you save money, but you will still need to pay for your solar panels.
What solar rebates are available in Delaware?
Currently, the solar rebates in Delaware include federal rebates only as there is no state rebate program. However, this could change soon. Delaware does not have a very strong rating regarding solar power friendliness, and many people are trying to change that.
How many homes in Delaware have solar panels?
There are only about 20,000 homes with solar panels in Delaware. As we mentioned, this state ranks 41st in the nation, so many people are still skipping solar and sticking with their traditional methods of purchasing electricity for their homes.
Do solar panels increase property taxes in Delaware?
Solar panels will increase property taxes in Delaware, and there are currently no incentives to decrease these taxes.
How much can you write off for solar panels on taxes in Delaware?
The current Federal ITC programs allow a 30% rebate on the total cost of the solar system. This program can save up to $5,000 for some homeowners depending on the system’s total cost.
Today's Homeowner’s Solar Ranking and Review Methodology
At Today's Homeowner, transparency and trust are our most important values for the reader. That’s why we took the time to create an objective rating system and score each solar energy company/service according to our methodology.
Our research team dug deep into the fine print of contracts, combed through more than one hundred customer reviews, and thoroughly investigated each solar energy company’s services, costs, and products. We’ve done the homework for you by researching nearly all the solar energy companies on the market so you can have the information you need to make the best choice for your home.
We developed a formula to objectively determine the top quality solar panel providers and give each a score out of 100 based on the following criteria:
- Plan Options (30): Do they provide various plan options? We looked at the number of plans each solar energy company offered and the flexibility of adjusting the plan.
- Services (20): How many services are offered in each plan? We looked at whether the company manufactures its solar panels, whether it contracts out installation, and what additional products each company offers.
- Trust (10): What do customers say after installing solar panels? Does this company offer a guarantee? We considered how satisfied customers are post-service if the company does what it says it will, BBB accreditation, and service guarantees.
- Prices (10): How reasonable are the costs of the plan or service in comparison to the industry average? We compared the costs of each company to competitors that offer the same solar energy services.
- Unique perks (10): Does the company offer discounts or special services such as financial incentives (check out affordable methods for buying solar with incentives), rebates, or a useful mobile app? We looked for extras each company offers that set them apart from the competition.
- Customer Service (10): How is the customer experience when contacting the company? We considered the speed of response, weekend/holiday availability, and ease of communication through phone calls, email, and online chat functions.
- Nationwide availability (10): How many states does the company offer its services? Companies that operate nationally and in all zip codes are favored over those with limited availability.
