Discover the Power of Solar Energy in Alaska!
Welcome to Alaska, a state celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife, yet also a surprising contender in the solar energy scene. Despite its reputation for cold weather and long winters, Alaska enjoys long hours of daylight during the summer months, presenting a unique angle for solar power generation. This untapped potential offers an intriguing opportunity for homeowners and businesses alike to explore the benefits of clean, renewable energy. With incentives aimed at reducing initial costs and a growing community interest in sustainable living, Alaska is poised to embrace a solar transformation. Learn how harnessing the midnight sun can illuminate your home, cut down on energy expenses, and support a healthier environment right here in the Last Frontier. Join us in capturing the sun’s boundless energy and step into a brighter, greener future in Alaska.
Explore Your Rooftop's Solar Potential
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Alaska State Solar Incentives
Interconnection Guidelines
Alaska's RCA approved net metering and interconnection guidelines in 2010 and 2011, simplifying the process for utility customers to connect renewable energy systems to the grid.
Local Option - Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems
Alaska's 2010 legislation allows municipalities to exempt residential renewable energy systems from taxation, promoting the use of wind, hydro, and solar energy.
Net Metering
Alaska's net metering regulations, effective from January 2010, enable renewable energy systems up to 25 kW to offset utility costs, promoting renewable energy use.
Renewable Energy Grant Program
Due to fiscal challenges, Alaska's Legislature did not fund Renewable Energy Fund projects in 2016 and 2017, reusing the 2016 recommendations for subsequent years. The fund, created in 2008, supports renewable energy projects in Alaska through grants managed by the Alaska Energy Authority.
Golden Valley Electric Association - Sustainable Natural Alternative Power (SNAP) Program
GVEA's SNAP program rewards members for adding renewable energy to the grid, with two options for participation.
Power Project Loan Fund
Alaska's fund offers loans for small-scale power and conservation projects, with terms up to 50 years and interest rates based on municipal bonds or project feasibility.
Alaska Solar Easements
Alaska allows voluntary solar easement contracts, enabling parties to secure sunlight exposure for solar energy systems.
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.
