Solar incentives and tax credits available in Iowa City, IA

Solar Incentives in Iowa City, IA

Complete guide to solar tax credits, rebates, and incentive programs available to Iowa City homeowners in 2026.

%

Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

30% of total system cost

Iowa City homeowners can deduct 30% of the cost of installing a solar energy system from their federal taxes. This applies to all qualified solar installations in Iowa City, IA.

Iowa State Solar Incentives for Iowa City Homeowners

Iowa Solar Tax Credit

Tax Credit

Iowa offers a state income tax credit for solar installations on residential properties.

15% of system cost, up to $5,000

Property Tax Exemption

Property Tax

Solar energy equipment is exempt from Iowa property taxes for 5 years after installation.

100% property tax exemption for 5 years

Net Metering in Iowa City, IA

Available

Iowa requires investor-owned utilities to offer net metering. Customers receive credit at the full retail rate for excess generation.

Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) in Iowa City

Not Available

Iowa does not have an SREC market, though the state has an Alternative Energy Law encouraging renewable energy production.

Tax Exemptions in Iowa City

Property Tax Exemption
Solar systems in Iowa City are exempt from property tax assessment increases
Sales Tax Exemption
No sales tax exemption for solar equipment

How to Claim Solar Incentives in Iowa City

  1. Install your solar system: Work with a qualified Iowa City solar installer to design and install your system.
  2. Claim the federal ITC: File IRS Form 5695 with your federal tax return to claim the 30% tax credit.
  3. Apply for state programs: Contact your Iowa energy office or local Iowa City utility to apply for available incentives.
  4. Set up net metering: Contact your utility in Iowa City to set up net metering and start earning credits.
  5. Keep records: Save all receipts, contracts, and permits for tax filing and warranty purposes.

Solar Incentives FAQ - Iowa City, IA

Iowa City homeowners can take advantage of the 30% federal solar tax credit, plus 2 state-level incentive programs, net metering. These incentives can reduce your total solar cost by 30-50%.

The 30% federal tax credit alone can save Iowa City homeowners approximately $5.3k on a typical system. Combined with Iowa state programs, total savings over 25 years can reach $27k or more.

Iowa requires investor-owned utilities to offer net metering. Customers receive credit at the full retail rate for excess generation.

To claim the 30% federal ITC, Iowa City homeowners need to file IRS Form 5695 with their annual tax return. The credit applies to the full cost of your solar system including equipment and installation. You must own the system (not lease it) to claim the credit.

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30%Federal Tax Credit
25+Year Savings
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