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Discover the Power of Solar Energy in South Dakota!

Welcome to South Dakota, a state known for its majestic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a growing interest in renewable energy. Amidst the rolling plains and rugged Badlands, South Dakota is exploring the untapped potential of solar power. With an increasing number of sunny days and supportive state policies, solar energy is becoming a viable option for many South Dakotans. The state offers various incentives to encourage the adoption of solar power, aiming to reduce electricity costs and decrease dependency on non-renewable energy sources. Learn how tapping into solar energy can light up your home, lessen your environmental impact, and contribute to South Dakota?s commitment to clean, sustainable energy. Join us in capturing the limitless energy of the sun and stepping into a brighter, more sustainable future in the Mount Rushmore State.

Solar State Incentives

South Dakota State Solar Incentives

Renewable Energy Facility Sales and Use Tax Reimbursement
South Dakota offers reinvestment payments for new or expanded renewable energy systems and facilities. To qualify, project costs must exceed certain thresholds.
Renewable Energy System Exemption
South Dakota offers property tax incentives for renewable energy facilities, with exemptions for properties valued at $50,000 or 70% of assessed value.
South Dakota Solar and Wind Easement Law
South Dakota property owners can grant 50-year wind or solar easements, which must be recorded in writing and include specific details. Payments are made annually.
Interconnection Standards
South Dakota's interconnection standards, set by the PUC, apply to investor-owned utilities and define 4 tiers for systems up to 10 MW in capacity. System owners bear all interconnection costs.
High-Performance Building Requirements for State Buildings
South Dakota's 2008 law mandates high-performance building standards in state construction, but 2021 updates lessened standards and removed the renovation LEED requirement.
Renewable, Recycled and Conserved Energy Objective
In 2008, South Dakota set a voluntary goal for 10% of retail electricity sales to be from renewable sources by 2015. The law includes provisions for tracking and verifying renewable energy credits, and annual reporting requirements.
Large Commercial Wind and Solar Alternative Taxes
South Dakota levies alternative taxation on wind and solar facilities built after July 2007. The tax includes a $3/kW annual charge and a per kWh charge that varies by facility type and start date.

Federal Solar Incentives

USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants
REAP, administered by USDA, provides financial aid to small rural businesses and agricultural producers for sustainable energy projects. Grants cover 25% of the project cost, up to $25 million.
Interconnection Standards for Small Generators
New FERC order mandates small generators under 20 MW to maintain operation during abnormal frequency and voltage events, enhancing interconnection efficiency.
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Loan Guarantees
The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) supports agricultural producers and rural businesses in the US by providing financial aid for renewable energy projects and energy efficiency improvements.
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs)
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs) were used by public entities to fund renewable energy projects. They were repealed in 2017.
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs)
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs) financed energy projects by local governments. Discontinued in 2018, they offered tax credits as interest to bondholders.
Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs - Funding Opportunities
The DOE's Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs aids tribes in attaining energy self-sufficiency and economic growth through renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies.
Fannie Mae Green Financing – Loan Program
Fannie Mae's Green Financing offers loans for multifamily properties aiming for energy and water efficiency improvements. Eligible properties can access favorable rates and additional loan proceeds.
Energy-Efficient Mortgages
Energy efficient mortgages (EEM) allow homeowners to finance energy-saving renovations or purchase new energy-efficient homes. These loans, insured by the U.S. government, aim to promote energy efficiency.
Green Power Purchasing Goal for Federal Government
The Energy Policy Act of 2005 set a goal for federal buildings to use 7.5% renewable energy by 2013. This target was increased to 30% by 2025 but later rescinded in 2018.
USDA - High Energy Cost Grant Program
USDA's grant program, enhancing energy generation in rural areas, concluded its latest application period on July 6, 2021. Updates can be found on the program website.
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Personal)
US law exempts energy conservation subsidies provided by utilities from taxation but requires adjustments for federal tax credits. IRS guidance on solar rebates is unclear.
Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit
H.R. 5376 extends tax credit for energy storage systems and excludes biomass heaters, with credit amounts varying by technology type and installation date.
U.S. Department of Energy - Loan Guarantee Program
The Inflation Reduction Act has allocated $11.7 billion to the LPO for new loans, boosting loan authority by $100 billion, and setting up the Energy Infrastructure Reinvestment Program.
Business Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 updates the federal Business Energy Investment Tax Credit, introducing new eligibility criteria, bonus credits, and transitions the tax credit to a new section.
Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC)
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 introduces changes to the federal renewable electricity production tax credit, introducing new bonus credits and eligibility criteria.
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Corporate)
U.S. energy conservation subsidies provided by public utilities are tax-exempt, but this does not extend to certain electricity-generating systems. Tax credits can't be claimed for unsubsidized expenses.
Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS)
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 allows 100% depreciation for qualified assets, impacting renewable energy technologies. MACRS classifies these technologies for depreciation purposes.
Energy and Emissions Goals and Standards for Federal Government
President Biden's Executive Order 14057 sets ambitious sustainability goals for the US, including 100% carbon-free electricity by 2030 and a fully zero-emission federal fleet by 2035.