Energy Conservation Improvements Property Tax Exemption

Summary

NOTE: A.B. 260 enacted in October 2017 amends the property tax exemption adding micro-hydro, fuel cell, micro combined heat and power, and electric energy storage system and storage equipment to be eligible for tax exemption for any increase in the value through the addition of these systems for period of fifteen years. 

Qualifying energy-conservation improvements to homes are exempt from real property taxation to the extent that the addition would increase the value of the home. The exemption includes general municipal property taxes, school district taxes, and special ad valorem taxes, but does not apply to special assessments. Eligible properties include single-family to four-family dwellings. The exemption applies directly to a variety of equipment and measures, but the statute also states that any conservation-related state or federal tax credit or deduction is also exempt from New York's property tax under this statute. The state Tax Assessor's Manual also specifically identifies solar and wind energy systems as eligible for the exemption.