A word about energy credits

The federal government believes in solar energy and they are willing to help you recoup some of your initial investment.

PROVISIONS IN H.R. 1424
The bill extends the credit for residential solar property for 8 years through 2016. It also removes the cap on the credit (currently $2000.00), effective for solar electric property placed in service after December 31,2008. The bill allows individual taxpayers to use the credit to offset AMT liability,and to carry unused credit forward to the next succeeding taxable year. Thus, individuals who install residential solar electricity or heating and cooling equipment in the U.S. will receive a credit against their income tax liability (including AMT) in the amount of 30% of the installed cost, including equipment and labor.
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Xcel The standard rebate and REC payment for qualifying equipment is currently $3.50 per watt DC and may be adjusted from time to time.

XCel details are found here.