
Frequently Asked questions
Have questions about solar installations in California or Texas? Eco Solar USA is here to help.
Solar Tax Credit
What is the Federal Solar Tax Credit?
The Federal Solar Tax Credit, officially known as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), is a U.S. government incentive that allows homeowners and businesses to deduct a percentage of the cost of installing a solar energy system from their federal taxes.
Is there a cap for the Federal Solar Tax Credit?
No, there’s no income limit for claiming the federal solar tax credit, or RCEC. Your eligibility depends on the type of solar equipment you purchase and whether it’s installed on a residential or business property—not your annual income. So, homeowners of any income level can claim the RCEC for qualifying solar panel systems and related equipment.
Does Solar Tax Credit apply for Battery Storage or just only for Solar Panels?
Yes, the federal solar tax credit applies to solar panels and battery storage, so you can save 30% on the cost of a new solar plus battery system.
Is the Federal Solar Tax Credit refundable?
Yes, this is a nonrefundable credit — it reduces what you owe but doesn’t provide a refund if your tax liability is zero.
Can I carry over my unused Solar Tax Credit?
Yes! The unused portion of the solar tax credit can typically be carried forward to future tax years, as long as the credit is still in effect.
Does the Solar Tax Credit apply for the upgraded solar system?
Yes, the Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC) can apply to upgrades to an existing solar system, but only under specific conditions. The current tax credit allows you to claim 30% of the total cost of the additions, including equipment and installation. For instance, if your new panels or battery cost $10,000, you could claim a $3,000 tax credit, substantially lowering your investment.
The IRS generally treats a system expansion or major upgrade as a new installation for tax purposes, meaning:
- The costs of the new components (panels, batteries, inverters, labor, etc.) are eligible.
- Only the new costs can be claimed — you can’t retroactively claim the credit on the original system if you didn’t already.
Can NPO (non-profit organization) claim the Solar Tax Credit?
Nonprofits Can Now Benefit from Clean Energy Tax Credits through a provision known as Direct Pay.
Is Solar Tax Credit still available in 2025?
Yes — the federal residential solar tax credit is still available in 2025, but it’s the final year to take advantage of the full 30% benefit. Under a newly passed bill signed on July 4, 2025, homeowners must have their solar systems installed and operational by December 31, 2025 to claim the credit. If you install after that date, the credit is gone for residential systems.
Do Solar Projects Installed in 2025 Still Qualify for the 30% Federal Tax Credit?
Yes — residential solar systems installed in 2025 are eligible for the full 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit under the Residential Clean Energy Credit (Internal Revenue Code §25D). To qualify, your system must be:
- Installed and operational by December 31, 2025
- Owned (not leased) by the homeowner
- Located at a U.S. residence
This credit allows homeowners to deduct 30% of the total solar system cost from their federal taxes. On a $25,000 system, that’s a $7,500 tax credit—but only if the system is installed in time.
⚠️ The 30% residential solar tax credit expires after 2025 — there is no phase-out period. Missing the deadline means missing thousands in savings.
Special Limited-Time Offer for California Homeowners:
💸 Go Solar and Pay $0 for the First 6 Months
Eco Solar USA is offering 6 months of free solar payments for qualified California homeowners who sign up by August 31, 2025.
This limited-time promotion makes it easier to go solar now, save money, and still lock in your full 30% federal tax credit before the deadline.
- Offer available only in California
- Must sign contract by 8/31/2025
- Installation must be completed in 2025 to claim the tax credit
Solar Panel Costs & Payment Methods
Is a solar lease transferable when selling a house?
Yes, a solar lease is often transferable when selling a house, but it depends on the lease agreement and the solar company’s policies. You can contact Eco Solar USA to consult about your solar lease when selling your property.
Installation & Maintenance
Can solar panels be installed on old roofs?
Yes, it’s possible to install solar panels on an old roof. However, you should first have your roof inspected to assess its condition. Be sure to consult with your solar installer beforehand to avoid any potential damage.
Is 2025 a Good Time to Go Solar?
Yes—and there may never be a better time.
If you’ve been thinking about going solar but haven’t signed a contract yet, now is the moment to lock in your home’s full savings potential while you can still qualify for the full 30% federal solar tax credit—set to expire for residential systems after December 31, 2025.
Special Offer for California Homeowners:
Sign up by August 31st and get your first 6 months of solar payments FREE!
(Available only in California – limited-time offer – Contact us now)
Solar Battery Storage
Is it possible to add a Battery to an Existing Solar System?
If you already have a solar plus storage system, adding another battery to your solar panels is easy. Most battery systems are modular, which allows you to stack multiple batteries together. These systems are designed to grow with you.
There are limits to the number of batteries you can stack together, and these limits vary by make and model. But for most homes, the limits far exceed the amount of storage you would ever realistically need.
Can I Claim a Tax Credit for a Battery Added Later?
Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, most residential solar batteries now qualify for the federal tax credit—even if they’re installed in a different tax year than your original solar panel system.
If you’re planning to add battery storage after your solar installation, it’s a good idea to consult a licensed tax professional to confirm your eligibility and understand any potential tax implications or contact us for FREE CONSULTATION.
Do I Need a Permit to Install Solar Panels?
Permit requirements for solar panel installation vary by state and locality. Some areas require homeowners to obtain specific permits or licenses, while others have more relaxed regulations.In most cases, homeowners must obtain a building permit from their local government before installing solar panels. The permitting process typically involves submitting an application that includes detailed drawings and specifications of the proposed system—usually prepared by a licensed solar contractor or designer.
In addition to the building permit, an electrical permit may also be required, especially if the solar panel system is connected to the utility grid.
Residential solar
Do Solar Panels Increase My Home’s Value?
Yes, solar panels can increase your home’s value significantly. Multiple studies have shown that homes equipped with solar energy systems tend to sell for more and sell faster than comparable homes without solar.
- A 2019 study by Zillow found that homes with solar panels sold for an average of 4.1% more than similar homes without solar.
- A 2024 analysis by SolarReviews found an even greater value boost—homes with solar sold for 6.8% more, with a median increase of over $25,000.
Why Solar Adds Value:
- Lower electricity bills attract buyers
- Greater energy independence
- Increased sustainability appeal
- Long-term savings with low maintenance
- Often transferable warranties and incentives
Bonus: Easier Sales
Homes with solar are also seen as more desirable, especially in states like California and Texas, where electricity rates and sunshine are both high.
How Do Solar Systems Add Value to Your Property?
Installing solar panels can significantly enhance your property’s value by offering financial savings, energy independence, and environmental benefits. Here’s how solar adds value to real estate:
1. Long-Term Energy Savings
A solar energy system can dramatically reduce your electricity bills for 25 years or more. These long-term savings make your property more attractive to buyers, especially those looking for lower utility costs and protection from rising energy rates. As a result, solar-equipped homes often command higher listing prices and sell faster.
2. Increased Energy Independence
Solar panels allow homeowners to generate their own electricity on-site, reducing reliance on the utility grid. When paired with battery storage, solar systems offer even greater independence—powering your home during outages and enabling “off-grid” functionality when needed. This added resilience is a major selling point for modern buyers.
3. Sustainable, Future-Ready Living
Solar installations showcase your home as an eco-friendly, forward-thinking investment. They help lower carbon emissions and align with growing demand for green real estate. Solar also integrates seamlessly with other energy-efficient upgrades, including EV chargers, smart thermostats, and home battery systems—future-proofing your property for years to come.
Solar panels aren’t just about saving money—they’re a strategic way to boost your home’s market value, attract eco-conscious buyers, and future-proof your property in a changing energy landscape.
How Much Value Do Solar Panels Add to a Home?
Multiple studies have shown that solar panels can significantly increase a home’s resale value. A 2019 study by Zillow found that homes with solar panels sold for an average of 4.1% more than comparable homes without solar.
More recently, a 2024 study by SolarReviews reported that solar-equipped homes sold for an average of 6.8% more, translating to a median increase of just over $25,000 in home value.
These findings highlight how solar installations not only reduce energy costs but also boost real estate value—making solar a smart long-term investment for homeowners.
You can contact Eco Solar USA for FREE EVALUATION.
commercial solar
What Are the Tax Benefits for Commercial Solar Panels?
Businesses that invest in commercial solar panels can take advantage of two major tax incentives:
1. Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows businesses to deduct 30% of the total cost of a solar installation from their federal taxes. This includes costs for equipment, labor, and permitting. To qualify, the system must be placed in service during the eligible time frame under the current tax laws.
2. Accelerated Depreciation (MACRS)
Under the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS), businesses can recover the cost of their solar system through depreciation deductions over a five-year period. This significantly reduces taxable income and improves the return on investment.
Bonus depreciation may also be available, allowing up to 100% first-year depreciation in some cases, depending on when the system is installed.
Combining the ITC with accelerated depreciation can result in substantial tax savings—often covering 40%–60% of your system’s total cost. These incentives make commercial solar not only environmentally responsible but also financially strategic.
About Eco Solar USA
Where are the Eco Solar USA offices?
Eco Solar USA currently has offices in two cities:
California Office
Address: 13962 Seaboard Circle, Garden Grove, CA 92843
Phone: (714) 265-9077 | (408) 538-5858
Texas Office
Address: 11602 Bellaire Blvd, Suite C, Houston, TX 77072
Phone: (346) 808-9999
How is the process of solar installation at Eco Solar USA?
At Eco Solar USA, we ensure a smooth and seamless solar installation process by:
- Reviewing your energy bill and understanding your energy goals
- Conducting a detailed site survey
- Designing your custom solar system and securing city permits
- Handling professional installation and final inspections
- Connecting your system to the grid and setting up monitoring
What brand of solar panels does Eco Solar USA use?
Eco Solar is a preferred dealer for both Tesla and Maxeon. We also install high-quality solar panels from trusted brands such as Q CELLS, REC, Hyundai, and Enphase.