Energy Efficient Water Heaters... Ask the Energy Wiz!
Dear Wiz:
I have a few questions about solar energy and incentives:
Q:
1. Does the state of Nebraska offer any state tax credits for solar energy?
A:
At present, Nebraska does not offer tax incentives for solar energy. However, there are federal tax incentives. The Tax Information Assistance Project summarizes incentives for solar energy projects.
Q:2. Does the state offer a cash rebate per kilowatt of installed solar power like California where a credit of $3,200 per kilowatt of install poweris available? A:
At present, Nebraska does not offer rebates for installed solar power. Depending on the project, there may be federal tax credits available.
Q:3. Do you know if the federal tax credit is refundable or not. For example, if you are receiving a tax refund of $1,000 and you have a federal tax credit of $2,000, would you receive a refund of $3,000? A:
This question would best be answered by a tax consultant.
Q:4. Does the state of Nebraska have a Net metering law like California? A:
No.
Q:5. Do you know what federal funding programs are available to install solar? A:
One source of project funding is for commercial and agricultural applications, through the United States Department of Agriculture, Rural Development.
Q:6. What state funding is available for solar power? A:
Nebraska offers the Dollar and Energy Saving Loan program. Using these loans, a solar power project could be funded, provided it shows a 10 year simple payback (payback without interest). Dollar and Energy Saving Loan information is available at the Energy Office’s web site.
Sincerely,
The Energy Wiz
Editor's Note:
The staff at the Energy Office respond to many inquiries on a variety of topics from Nebraskans. From time to time, the Quarterly will share some questions and the answers with readers.