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Incentives

Different types of dollar incentives are currently available.

 
Federal

Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit:

Established by the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the Energy Improvement and Extension Act of 2008 (H.R. 1424, Division B) extended the tax credit for eight years to December 31, 2016. It also included the ability to take the credit against the alternative minimum tax, and the removal of the $2,000 credit limit for solar electric systems beginning in 2009. 
A taxpayer may claim a credit of 30% of qualified expenditures for a system that serves a dwelling unit located in the U.S. used as a residence by the taxpayer. Expenditures include labor costs for onsite preparation, assembly, or original system installation and for piping or wiring to interconnect a system to the home. If the federal tax credit exceeds tax liability, the excess amount may be carried forward to the succeeding taxable year.
More info

State

California Solar Initiative:

In January 2006, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) adopted a program -- the California Solar Initiative (CSI) -- to provide more than $3 billion in incentives for solar-energy projects with the objective of providing 3,000 megawatts (MW) of solar capacity by 2016.
CSI incentives in 2007 began at $2.50/Watt for residential and commercial systems. Incentives are adjusted based on expected performance and will automatically be reduced over the duration of the program in 10 steps based on the aggregate capacity of solar installed.
Incentives will be awarded as a one-time, up-front payment based on expected performance, which is calculated using equipment ratings and installation factors such as geographic location, tilt, orientation and shading.
More info

Local

Several local agencies, municipalities and counties propose additional incentives.

You can check the full list at the following link: www.dsireusa.org

Others
Some companies, understanding the importance of solar energy systems, now provide financial support to their employees that decide to “go solar”. Check with your own employer.