Short answer: the 30% federal tax credit for homeowners is gone for systems installed after 2025, and Virginia does not have a state solar tax credit. What still helps in 2026 is net metering at the retail rate, a statewide property tax exemption for home systems, and lease options that don’t depend on your own tax bill.
The federal tax credit ended
The federal residential clean energy credit, which covered 30% of the cost of home solar and batteries, ended for expenditures made after December 31, 2025. If your system was installed in 2026, you can’t claim it. We build every estimate without it.
Net metering at the retail rate
This is the biggest incentive left. Power your panels send to the grid earns a credit at the full retail rate, and credits offset your usage over a 12-month period. Both Dominion Energy and Appalachian Power customers keep this. The main change for new customers is a lower rate for extra power left at the end of the year. Read more in our guide to net metering in Virginia.
No property tax on your solar system
Under Virginia law, solar systems of 25 kilowatts or less installed on homes are wholly exempt from state and local property tax (Code of Virginia § 58.1-3661). Most home systems are well under 25 kW, so adding solar won’t raise your property tax bill.
Leasing
Most of our customers now lease. A lease lets you go solar with no upfront cost and a fixed monthly payment, and the leasing company, not you, deals with any business tax incentives. See leasing versus buying solar in Virginia.
Your renewable energy certificates
Your system creates renewable energy certificates, and in Virginia they belong to you, not the utility. Their resale value for a home system is small and varies, so we don’t count on them in your savings estimate.
Common questions
Does Virginia have a solar tax credit?
No. Virginia has no state income tax credit for home solar, and the federal homeowner credit ended for systems installed after 2025.
Is solar still worth it without the tax credit?
It depends on your bill, your roof and how you pay. With retail-rate net metering, no property tax on the system and rising utility rates, many Virginia homes still save. We’ll show you the numbers for your home before you commit.
Can I still get a credit for a battery?
The homeowner credit for batteries ended at the same time. Ask us about current options before you buy.
See what solar would save on your home. Take the Go Solar Quiz or call us at (804) 592-0306.
This is general information, not tax advice. Talk to a qualified tax professional about your situation.
