Would your taxes rise if you added solar panels?

Question

Would your taxes rise if you added solar panels? If so how much? What is the best type of solar panel to use to power a 1400 square foot home?

Answer 1

I don't know if your local taxes would rise, but I know you can claim it on your tax return. Not sure what the difference would be. Ask your town office.

Answer 2

I have heard that there are tax credits for people that install alternative energy componants to their homes.

Answer 3

Good question! I think it depends on the local tax practice.  In some states such as California, property tax is tied to the price when the house was purchased. It doesn't change until the house is resold. Then the new purchase price will be used in the formula. So if the solar panels add resale value of the house, then probably the tax will go up.  It depends on how they look at it - is it considered as a value adding structure (pool, new deck, etc.) It's hard to say. However, you can always protest the appraisal.

Answer 4

Hi Mark. Most states actually give you tax incentives to installing solar. I am listing a site below for you, there is a solar "calculator" there which you can enter your state and it will tell you the approx cost of install and what the govt will reimburse you. It will also tell you if there are any state fundings or programs you can take advantage of for additional money. Solar will also increase the value of your home, but not significantly.

Good luck with your plans, solar for me unfortunately is too expensive. Also I had people come out to estimate an install of solar. Unless you have a south facing roof with good sun exposure it may not be beneficial for you to put it in.