Solar or Wind Energy System Credit - Personal

Summary

California's Solar or Wind Energy System Credit (SB17x2) was approved by the Governor on October 8, 2001. The law provides personal and corporate income tax credits for the purchase and installation of photovoltaic or wind driven systems with a peak generating capacity of up to 200 kilowatts. After January 1, 2004 and before January 1, 2006, the tax credit is equal to 7.5% of the net installed system cost after deducting the value of any municipal, state, or federal sponsored financial incentives, or $4.50 per watt of rated peak generating capacity, whichever is less. A 15% tax credit was available Jan 1, 2001 - Dec 31, 2003. The California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) administers the program in consultation with the California Energy Commission (Energy Commission). The solar or wind system must be certified by the Energy Commission. A five-year warranty is required of each system. Taxpayers claiming the credit cannot sell the electricity produced by the system, but may utilize California’s net metering law, if eligible. California Franchise Tax Board form FTB 3508 must be completed and attached to your California tax return. The Solar or Wind Energy System Credit Worksheet can be used to determine the tax credit amount. These forms are available on the Energy Commission's Website, which may be accessed by clicking on the Website listed above.