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Homeowner searches for solar panel advice as government tax incentives dry up: 'People … will scramble to get installed before the deadline'

"The sooner the better."

"The sooner the better."

Photo Credit: iStock

The federal tax incentives for solar panels are expiring at the end of the year, and U.S. homeowners are rushing to take advantage of them while they can. However, one Redditor remained stubbornly optimistic that installation costs might continue to trend downward.  

"Will the solar installation prices in 2026 fall lower than today's install costs with 30% tax credit? Your thoughts are much appreciated," they asked in r/Solar

Even though solar prices have dropped significantly over the past 10 years, a chorus of Redditors urged the poster not to delay their project if they wanted to get the best deal. EnergySage's free tools can help you narrow down your options with easy-to-compare quotes.

"If solar meets your needs/cost profile today, get the credit while you can," one person said. 


Want to go solar but not sure who to trust? EnergySage has your back with free and transparent quotes from fully vetted providers in your area.

To get started, just answer a few questions about your home — no phone number required. Within a day or two, EnergySage will email you the best options for your needs, and their expert advisers can help you compare quotes and pick a winner.

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"This is the answer," another added. "IDK why people think solar will be cheaper."

"Most people who are currently in the market will scramble to get installed before the deadline," affirmed a third commenter who said they owned a smaller installation company. 

Essentially, going solar is the ultimate home energy hack. Not only is solar a proven way to save thousands on energy bills, but it also contributes to a healthier, cooler future, since photovoltaic panels produce zero toxic pollution when converting sunlight into electricity. 

EnergySage saves the average household around $10,000 on solar purchases and installations, and its mapping tool is a valuable resource for exploring state-specific incentives. 

FROM OUR PARTNER

Save $10,000 on solar panels without even sharing your phone number

Want to go solar but not sure who to trust? EnergySage has your back with free and transparent quotes from fully vetted providers that can help you save as much as $10k on installation.

To get started, just answer a few questions about your home — no phone number required. Within a day or two, EnergySage will email you the best local options for your needs, and their expert advisers can help you compare quotes and pick a winner.

While buying panels may not be feasible for everyone because of the upfront cost, Palmetto is one company making the benefits of solar more accessible with its low-to-no-money-down leasing plans that allow homeowners to lock in stable energy rates.

Regardless of whether you buy or lease, electrifying your home is a surefire way to maximize your solar perks. For instance, heating and cooling account for around half of a home's energy bill. However, replacing a conventional HVAC system with an energy-efficient heat pump can unlock hundreds more in savings. Mitsubishi can help you find a heat pump at an affordable price. 

Which of these factors is the biggest obstacle preventing you from getting solar panels?

The upfront cost 💰

The way they look 🙈

Not sure where to start 🤔

No concerns here! 😄

Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

"Do it now," another Redditor encouraged. "The sooner the better."

"Now," someone else urged. "Many installers have 5-6 month queue of installations."

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