Questions and Answers
on Rebates for Residential Renewable Energy Systems

1. I have some questions about the residential rebate program. Where can I find the answers?
2. What kind of renewable energy systems are eligible for rebates?
3. What is the amount of the rebate?
4. Are solar hot water systems (solar thermal) eligible for rebates under this program?
5. How do I apply for a rebate?
6. If I receive a rebate from the Commission, am I still eligible for the 30% federal income tax credit? Are other incentives available?
7. If I receive a rebate, are there any tax implications?
8. How long will it take the PUC to process my rebate application?

1. I have some questions about the residential rebate program. Where can I find the answers?

You should start by reading the Commission’s Order No. 24,985 establishing this program. The order describes the nature and scope of the program, and addresses many issues that were raised during the public comment process. You may also find it useful to read through the rebate application forms themselves, as well as the information presented below.

2. What kind of renewable energy systems are eligible for rebates?

Rebates are available for residential energy systems that generate electricity from a renewable technology such as photovoltaic (solar electric) panels or wind turbines with a rated capacity of less than 5 kilowatts. The system may be either grid-connected or “off grid.”

3. What is the amount of the rebate?

Residential rebates are calculated at $3 per watt of capacity or 50% of system costs, whichever is less, up to a maximum of $6,000.  

4. Are solar hot water systems (solar thermal) eligible for rebates under this program?

 No. The legislation that created the rebate program, HB 1628, limits rebates to renewable energy systems that produce electricity. However, HB 1628 also gives the Commission authority to establish additional rebate programs for customer-sited thermal and renewable electricity projects. The Commission intends to use this authority to create a separate rebate program for solar thermal as soon as practical.

5. How do I apply for a rebate?

If you are planning to install a qualifying system, you are required to use a two step application process to obtain pre-approval of the facility. Step 1 qualifies your planned facility and allows the Commission to reserve your rebate. Once your system is operational, you must file the Step 2 form to claim your incentive payment.

6. If I receive a rebate from the Commission, am I still eligible for the 30% federal income tax credit? Are other incentives available?

Yes. See www.energystar.gov for more information about the federal tax credit. For additional information on federal, state, and local renewable energy incentives, please click here http://www.nh.gov/oep/programs/energy/RenewableEnergyIncentives.htm.

7. If I receive a rebate, are there any tax implications?

Any incentive received under this program may be treated as taxable income. It is the responsibility of the recipient of this incentive payment to consult with his/her tax advisor to determine the correct tax treatment of these payments.

8. How long will it take the PUC to process my rebate application?

Initially, there will likely be a large number of applications for systems installed and therefore it may take 4-6 weeks before rebate checks are issued. After the initial month or two, it is anticipated that rebate check will be issued within 4 weeks of the receipt of completed application.