Discover the Power of Solar Energy in Louisiana!
Welcome to Louisiana, a state celebrated for its vibrant culture, rich ecosystems, and now, its emerging commitment to renewable energy. With its warm climate and ample sunshine, especially in the southern regions, Louisiana offers a promising landscape for solar power adoption. This opportunity is an open invitation for homeowners and businesses to explore the benefits of clean, renewable energy, fitting perfectly with the state?s efforts to enhance sustainability and combat climate change. Bolstered by attractive incentives designed to mitigate initial costs and a community ethos geared towards environmental conservation, Louisiana is poised to make significant strides in harnessing solar energy. Learn how tapping into Louisiana?s abundant solar resources can illuminate your home, lower energy bills, and contribute to a healthier environment in the Pelican State. Join us in capturing the sun?s endless power and stepping towards a brighter, more sustainable future in Louisiana.
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Louisiana State Solar Incentives
City of New Orleans - Renewable and Clean Portfolio Standard
New Orleans City Council has adopted a Renewable and Clean Portfolio Standard to eliminate carbon emissions by 2050 and reach net-zero emissions by 2040. The plan includes compliance credits, multipliers, and penalties.
Solar and Wind Contractor Licensing
Louisiana law mandates that by February 1, 2015, licensed contractors must comply with state licensing to legally install solar panels.
Louisiana Solar Rights
Louisiana's 2010 solar rights law (HB 751) ensures property owners' right to install solar collectors, with exceptions for historic areas.
City of New Orleans - Net Metering
New Orleans City Council mandates Entergy New Orleans to offer net metering for systems that generate renewable electricity. Residential facilities' capacity is limited to 25kW, while commercial and agricultural systems can reach up to 300kW.
Home Energy Loan Program (HELP)
The HELP program offers homeowners a five-year loan up to $12,000 for energy efficiency home improvements, with half the loan at a 2% interest rate.
Interconnection Guidelines
Louisiana Public Service Commission's rules mandate utilities to offer net metering to customers with renewable energy systems. Residential facilities must have a capacity of 25 kW, commercial systems, 300 kW.
Net Metering
Louisiana law requires utilities to offer net metering to customers using renewable energy. Residential systems up to 25 kW and commercial/agricultural systems up to 300 kW are eligible.
Solar Energy System Exemption
In Louisiana, equipment of a solar energy system attached to residential buildings or pools is exempt from ad valorem taxation.
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.
