Solar Tax Credit now applies to Solar Electric Systems

ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 16, 2009)--- In Anne Arundel County, solar energy just got better. On Jan. 5th, County Council members approved a bill that would extend the current solar energy property tax credit to include solar electric systems. Homeowners who install solar electric systems can now apply to receive up to $2,500 off their tax bill.

Together with other tax incentives, Maryland resident can now shave up to 50 percent off the cost of their solar energy system.

Previously, the solar tax credit only applied to solar heating, cooling or solar hot water systems. Current owners of an electric solar energy system will also be happy to learn that the tax credit may also be applied retroactively to systems commissioned after January 1, 2007.

Maryland solar energy leaders welcomed the news of the newly passed tax credit. Richard Deutschmann, VP Policy & Market Development for Maryland-based Chesapeake Solar, a groSolar company, said the legislation will result in significantly more clean, renewable energy for Anne Arundel County.

“We applaud the decision of the council to extend the existing tax credits to solar electric,” Deutschmann said. “In surrounding counties that have passed similar legislation, we have seen a steep increase in the number of systems installed, and along with it, new green jobs and economic development for the region,” said Deutschmann He added: “Along with the economic benefits, solar energy helps to ease the burden on overloaded transmission lines, putting off the need for expensive upgrades. It will also help the state to meet its goals to reduce carbon emissions and will result in better air quality and a cleaner Chesapeake Bay. It’s a win-win for the economy and the environment”.

Howard, Montgomery, Prince Georges, and Harford counties offer similar tax credits for both solar electric and solar hot water systems. Combined with the new federal tax credit, which offers 30% of the net cost of a system, and the sale of renewable energy credits, homeowners can typically offset over 50% of a system’s initial cost.

Tax credits like the one in Anne Arundel County prove that sustainable, clean energy can remain a high priority for local governments, even in the face of tough times. Primarily a coal-powered state, Maryland’s future energy use projections surpass current energy production capabilities, causing energy officials to warn of brown-outs and energy shortages. Investing in solar today not only increases the energy potential of the state, but also ensures that the energy of the future will be clean and sustainable.

Anne Arundel homeowners who are interested in a solar energy system for their home, can contact the Anne Arundel County Office of Finance to learn to how take advantage of the new solar tax credit.

About groSolar
groSolar is North America’s premier distributor, installer and integrator of solar energy solutions for residential and commercial installations. Founded in 1998, groSolar has grown to encompass multiple offices and warehouses across North America. groSolar is a mission-driven company dedicated to providing high value products, systems and services that deliver peace of mind through solar energy solutions and whole energy appreciation. Learn more at groSolar.com or call groSolar at 800.374.4494 from 8am – 5pm EST.

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