The Hoosier State hopes to add 8,000MW of solar energy to the grid in the next 5 years. This massive endeavor shows how solar panels in Indiana are gaining traction. Homeowners can save thousands of dollars on their electricity bills with an array of their own.
With growing, state-level support, Hoosiers can drastically reduce the cost of an installation. Federal, state and municipal programs exist to help homeowners save money. Read on for an in-depth guide to available solar incentives in Indiana.
Solar Panels in Indiana: Overview
Due to varying weather conditions in Indiana, homeowners might not consider renewable energy right away. However, the cost of solar panels in Indiana is among the lowest in the country. With growing state-level support, homeowners may find several avenues to lower installation costs. Typically, opportunities come in the form of:
- Federal credits
- State credits and rebates
- Government regulations
Indiana has a voluntary set of renewable regulations. This means that municipalities aren’t required to promote solar. However, many utility companies offer credits when connecting to the grid. Additionally, tax exemptions and performance programs exist for those that want to earn a little back on their array. Let’s cover each benefit in more detail.
Solar Panels in Indiana: Federal Incentive
Indiana homeowners should first consider applying for the federal solar tax return. This incentive comes as a 30% credit for all purchases made toward a solar array. Hoosiers that take advantage of the federal return can lower the cost of their new system by nearly $4,500.
Homeowners planning to buy solar panels in Indiana need to meet a few prerequisites to qualify for incentives. These include:
- Owning the solar panel system (leases do not count)
- Living at the home where the system is installed
- Purchasing new equipment
Hoosiers can take advantage of this benefit through 2032. After that, the discount drops to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034. The program ends in 2035 unless it’s renewed.
Indiana’s State Credits and Rebates
One way states promote solar energy is through tax credits and physical cash rebates. While Indiana’s support is growing, it doesn’t quite include state credits or mandated rebates through utility companies.
However, the Hoosier State does offer net metering and simplified interconnectivity regulations. While not mandated, this program asks municipalities to pay for a portion of excess solar energy from residents connected to the grid. However, senate changes to the regulation no longer require utility companies to pay the retail rate. We hope this changes in the future as the state’s standards increase.
Those getting electricity from NIPSCO can sign up for the company’s feed-in tariff. This allows homeowners to sell a portion of their solar electricity at a rate of $0.15 per kWh. Over time, this can add up to a decent return for your system’s lifespan.
Solar Panels in Indiana: Government Regulations
One of the main reasons for Indiana’s modest solar incentives comes from its renewable portfolio standard. (RPS) We use a state’s RPS to determine its intention to invest in the future of renewable energy.
The Hoosier State has a voluntary goal of 10% renewable production by 2025. This is relatively weak compared to some states but better than those that have none at all. This tells us that while solar energy isn’t currently pressed, it’s a topic of discussion for the legislature. Essentially, the state won’t force businesses to incentivize solar, but it can offer benefits of its own.
One benefit that stems from Indiana’s RPS is the state’s tax exemptions. Hoosiers can take advantage of both property and sales tax exemptions, reducing the initial and ongoing costs of owning a solar panel system. Up front, this saves homeowners 7% on purchases. It also keeps them from paying extra for the increased value of their home.
Should Hoosiers Lease Solar?
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In most cases, there’s not much financial benefit to leasing a solar panel system. The monthly lease cost does not often outweigh the utility bill that an array would cover. This is the case in Indiana, where homeowners would only see marginal returns after 20 years with solar. It also disqualifies homeowners from several incentives, including the federal solar tax credit. Overall, it’s not recommended to lease solar panels in Indiana.
Solar Panels in Indiana: Incentive Summary
| Benefit | Accessibility |
|---|---|
| Federal Tax Incentive | 30% credit |
| Indiana Tax Credits / Rebates | None |
| Net Metering | Discontinued 2022 |
| Renewable Portfolio Standard | 10% by 2025, voluntary |
| Property Tax Exemption | Yes |
| Sales Tax Exemption | Yes |
| Performance Payment Program | NIPSCO feed-in tariff |
How to Save Money on Solar Panels in Indiana: Further Reading
Investing in solar panels in Indiana makes sense thanks to developing renewable portfolio standards and low rates on equipment. For more on how the Hoosier State supports emerging technology, check out these articles below.
- Owning an EV in Indiana: Charging Cost, Incentives, and More – Electric vehicles are more affordable to own in Indiana than you might think.
- Largest Tech Companies in Indiana – The Hoosier State is the home of many of the country’s most successful tech companies.
- How to Save Money on Solar Panels in Connecticut – Here’s how Indiana’s voluntary RPS compares to one of the most comprehensive regulations in the country.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Vlyaks/Shutterstock.com.
