Oregon raises Solar tax credits

Started by jraabe, February 18, 2006, 10:25:19 AM

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Despite a contentious legislative session, Oregon raised its income tax credit for photovoltaic systems to an unprecedented $6,000 per installation. A tight budget didn't stop the politically divided legislature from passing the new tax law by an overwhelming margin. For the next 10 years, Oregonians who install photovoltaic systems can receive $3 per watt. The total credit is $6,000, but it can be taken only $1,500 per year over four years.

The new tax credits take affect January 1, 2006 and combined with existing utility solar incentives, Oregon promises to remain the leader of solar hot water and gridtied PV in the Northwest. This according to the Oregon Solar Energy Industries Association, (OSEIA). Solar in Oregon and the northwest in general has not been an easy sell, because of it's reputation for incessant rain. However, it's a little known fact that two thirds of Oregon gets as much sunlight as Florida. Even Oregon's least sunny location rivals the best locations in Germany, where photovoltaic installations are booming.

"We like to think the rain keeps our panels cleaner and improves our production of electricity," said Jon Miller Executive Director OSEIA.

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