Now you can get the credit you deserve for making smart, energy-wise decisions. Installing the Solatube ISn System with integrated solar earns you a tax credit on cost of the product and installation. There are credits for other Solatube Systems and Solar Star Attic Fan products. Read below for details.
When filing your federal taxes, claiming your credit is easy. You simply file IRS Form 5695 and submit your receipt along with the Manufacturer's certification for the appropriate product.
Current Year Certifications:
Manufacturer Certification Statement All Eligible Products
Past Year Certifications:
Manufacturer Certification Statement Daylighting Systems
2017-2020 Manufacturer's Certification for Solar Star Fans
2017-2019 Manufacturer's Certification for Integrated Solar Daylighting Systems
2017-2019 Manufacturer's Certification for Solar Star Fans
2017-2018 Manufacturer's Certification for Integrated Solar Daylighting Systems
2017-2018 Manufacturer's Certification for Solar Star Fans
2016 Manufacturer's Certification for Integrated Solar Daylighting Systems
2016 Manufacturer's Certification for Daylighting Systems
2016 Manufacturer's Certification for Solar Star Fans
2015 Manufacturer's Certification
2014 Manufacturer's Certification
2013 Manufacturer's Certification
2012 Manufacturer's Certification
2011 Manufacturer's Certification
Tax credits for all eligible products
Solatube International, Inc. certifies that the following products, as indicated, qualify for federal energy tax credits.
- Solatube Integrated Solar Daylighting Systems 160 and 290 Daylighting Systems when integrated with a Solar Electric Nightlight OR a Solar-Powered Daylight Dimmer
- Solar Star® Solar Powered Attic and Garage Fans
- All models of Solar Operable Skylights
What is excluded?
The federal tax credit applies to the cost of qualified Solatube products and installation. Accessories and add-ons, such as the Light Kit or Ventilation Kit are excluded.
What do I need in order to claim the tax credit?
You'll need your receipt for purchase and installation, a Manufacturer's certification (see above), and IRS Form 5695. On this form, in line 1: Qualified solar electric property costs, you'll enter the cost of the product and installation.
Do Solatube products installed in my second home or rental property qualify?
Existing homes and new construction qualify; as well as primary residences and secondary residences, such as vacation homes. Rental properties do not qualify.
When do tax credits expire?
In December 2015, legislation was signed into law that extended the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which provides for a federal income tax credit for residential photovoltaic systems. The federal tax credit is 30% through December 31 2019, 26% Jan 1 2020 - Dec 31 2021, expiring starting in 2022.
Is there a cap on the tax credit?
No, there is no cap for residential photovoltaic systems placed into service after December 31, 2008 and before December 31, 2021.
Tax credits for Solar Star Attic Fans
Which models qualify for tax credits?
All Solar Star Attic Fans are considered residential photovoltaic systems, which means they turn sunlight into energy, so a portion of the cost of the fans qualify for a federal income tax credit.
In IRS Notice 2013-70, a clarification was made that specifically excludes portions of Solar Powered Exhaust Fans. Solar Star is a hybrid product that is both an exhaust fan and produces electricity. The electricity producing portion of the product is eligible for a federal tax credit while the fan portion is not eligible.
The electricity producing solar panel and related components of the Solar Star are 70% of the overall cost of the unit. Therefore, both the unit and installation are credit eligible at 70% of the total Solar Star sales price to the customer.
What is the Emergency Stabilization Act of 2009?
On Oct. 3, 2008, George W. Bush signed the Emergency Stabilization Act of 2009, which extended the credits available for solar-powered energy systems and expanded the qualifying product requirements. This allows for a tax credit on the purchase and installation of residential solar water heating, photovoltaic (solar electric) equipment, and fuel cell property.
What do I need in order to claim the tax credit?
You'll need your receipt for purchase and installation, a Manufacturer's certification (see above), and IRS Form 5695.
Is there a cap on the tax credit?
There is no credit cap for residential photovoltaic systems placed into service after December 31, 2008 and before December 31, 2021.
Do Solar Star products in my second home or rental property qualify?
Existing homes and new construction qualify; as well as primary residences and secondary residences, such as vacation homes. Rental properties do not qualify.
Are the Solar Star DIY kits eligible?
Yes, Solar Star Attic Fan DIY Kits – both roof and interior mount kits – are eligible. Of the total product price, 70% qualifies for the tax credit.
Are Solar Star products eligible even though they aren’t ENERGY STAR® rated?
An ENERGY STAR rating is not required for the photovoltaic system tax credit eligibility program.
General tax credit information
What is the difference between a tax deduction and a tax credit?
A tax deduction is subtracted from income before total tax liability is computed. On the other hand, a tax credit is subtracted directly from the total tax due or added to the expected tax refund. For example, if your paid $665 for a Solatube 160 ISn with installation, you would earn $200, or a, tax credit, which you would add to your federal tax refund or subtract from the amount you owe.
When were the tax credits established and when do they expire?
Tax credits for residential solar installations were initially created under the Energy Policy Act of 2005, and have been extended several times under other additional acts. In December 2015, legislation was signed into law that extended the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which provides for a federal income tax credit for residential photovoltaic systems. The federal tax credit is 30% through December 31 2019, 26% Jan 1 - Dec 31 2020, 22% Jan 1 - Dec 31 2021, expiring starting in 2022.
What do I need in order to claim the tax credit??
You'll need your receipt for purchase and installation, a Manufacturer's certification (see above), and IRS Form 5695.
Are there local incentives for my county and/or city?
Many local utilities provide financial incentives for energy-efficient products. To find out if rebates or incentives are available in your area, visit the ENERGY STAR rebate finder at www.energystar.gov. For additional information, please visit your state energy office website for specific state tax information or go to http://www.dsireusa.org/ to view the database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency.
Does a product with an ENERGY STAR rating automatically qualify for federal tax credits?
Prior to December 31, 2013, all products with the ENERGY STAR label were eligible for 10 % federal tax credits because of their ability to operate efficiently and lower energy bills. After this date, there may be some ENERGY STAR rated products that do not qualify for federal tax credits. To find out for sure, it’s recommended you visit www.irs.gov or consult a tax professional for advice.
*Solatube International makes no warranty as to the qualification of the products for federal tax credits if there are changes in requirements or applicable law after such date.
Solatube International, Inc. is not a tax advisor. Taxpayers claiming a tax credit should consult a tax professional with any questions. Solatube International is not responsible or liable for the taxpayer’s ability to receive tax credits. This document is not intended to constitute legal or tax advice. More comprehensive information will be made available by the IRS. The user maintains the full and complete responsibility to comply with all codes, laws and regulations applicable to the safe and proper use, handling and installation of the product and should consult with a professional for all construction- and design-related questions. The information contained herein is believed to be accurate as of the time of preparation. However, Solatube International makes no warranty as to the accuracy of this information.
