Act Now: Key Energy Tax Credits Expiring Soon

In light of growing concerns over climate change, the federal government has aimed to nudge homeowners and consumers towards sustainable energy solutions by offering tax credits for various green initiatives. These incentives have spurred the installation of solar panels, the upgrade to energy-efficient home systems, and the purchase of electric vehicles (both new and used). However, sweeping legislative changes known informally as the "One Big Beautiful Bill" Act have modified the scope of these tax credits, hastening their expiration. Thus, it is imperative for consumers to act swiftly if they wish to capitalize on these tax benefits.

Residential Solar Energy Tax Credits - The Residential Clean Energy Credit has been instrumental in encouraging homeowners to invest in solar electric properties. Historically, this credit offered a significant financial advantage, granting a 30% deduction on federal taxes for the cost of installing solar systems. This included installations of qualified solar electric property, solar water heating systems, geothermal heat pumps, and wind energy systems.

Initially, expenditures for property placed in service through December 31, 2032, could qualify for the credit. Nevertheless, the "One Big Beautiful Bill" has accelerated the expiration date to December 31, 2025. This means homeowners should have their systems installed by then to take advantage of the credit. It's vital to not only complete installation but also to receive sign-off by a building inspector before the credit curtain falls.

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Energy Efficient Home Improvements Credit - The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit has incentivized taxpayers to enhance their residences with qualified energy efficiency upgrades. This allowed homeowners to claim 30%, up to $1,200 each year, for expenses related to improvements such as high-efficiency HVAC systems, improved insulation, and energy-efficient windows and doors.

Originally available through December 31, 2032, the new act has moved this credit’s expiration date to December 31, 2025. Those intending to leverage this benefit should act swiftly. Commonly, efficiency improvements must secure final approval from local building inspectors, emphasizing the need for immediate action.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Credits

  1. New Clean Vehicle Credit: This incentive to promote the purchase of new clean vehicles has experienced shifts. It offered a credit of up to $7,500 for new EVs, provided they met specific critical mineral and battery component criteria, encouraging domestic manufacturing and sustainable supply chains.

    The vehicles must not exceed an MSRP of $80,000 for vans, pickups, and SUVs, and $55,000 for others, and assembly must be done in the U.S. While initially eligible through 2032, the act rescinds this benefit for vehicles obtained after September 30, 2025, necessitating fast-tracked purchasing decisions.

  2. Previously Owned EV Credit: This credit incentivized the purchase of pre-owned electric vehicles, offering the lesser of $4,000 or 30% of the vehicle’s price, with specific qualifications such as purchase price limits and dealer registration requirements.

    Planned to expire in 2032, the new law advances the cutoff to September 30, 2025. Buyers must make swift and strategic decisions, especially as inventory levels shift in response to regulatory changes.

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The Urgency to Act - The comprehensive changes in energy-focused tax credits, propelled by the "One Big Beautiful Bill," send a clear signal to consumers and homeowners: Act immediately or miss out on financial incentives meant to foster sustainable practices.

Consumers eyeing energy improvements and eco-friendly vehicles must quicken their planning, purchasing, and installation timelines. The reduction of these tax benefits, originally crafted to lessen the costs of sustainability efforts, signifies a noticeable shift in policy, divergent from earlier trends of government-backed incentives for green initiatives.

Call to Action - If you're contemplating renewable energy investments or the purchase of electric vehicles, the message is both urgent and clear—complete installations and purchases well in advance. Be certain that all inspections and necessary documents are finalized before the revised deadlines.Image 1

As these federal tax credits near their looming end, the time to seize on them dwindles ever faster. The "One Big Beautiful Bill" has crafted a contentious legislative narrative in environmental initiatives, emphasizing the critical nature of prompt action to conclude this chapter of incentivized green energy shifts.

If you have questions about qualifications and deadlines for the credits, do not hesitate to contact Haley Claypool & Associates at our Newport Beach office.

Have Questions?
Let's talk. We are here to help!
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