If you’ve heard that the federal solar tax credit “ended,” you’re not alone — and you’re not entirely wrong. The rules changed. But for homeowners who act before the end of 2027, the full 30% benefit is still on the table. Here are the questions we hear most, answered plainly.
Is the 30% federal tax credit still available?
Yes — but the way homeowners receive it has changed. The old version, which you claimed on your own tax return, ended after 2025. The credit itself is still alive through 2027 for systems owned by a qualifying clean-energy partner. That’s why Corda Solar partners with HDM Capital: the partnership structure is what keeps the 30% benefit available to you. The deadline that matters is installation — your system must be installed by December 31, 2027.
So how do the savings actually reach me?
Through a short-term prepaid agreement with HDM Capital. You pay once, up front, with the 30% benefit already deducted from your price. During a set holding period, HDM owns the system and captures the federal credit — that’s what funds your discount. Your solar and battery work for your home from day one, exactly as if you’d bought them outright.
When do I own my system?
At the end of the holding period — currently six years — ownership transfers to you at no additional cost. Nothing about your daily use changes before, during, or after the transfer. If you’d like to see exactly how the transfer works, call us and we’ll walk you through the agreement line by line.
Is this arrangement legitimate?
Yes. Third-party ownership has been standard in the solar industry for years — it’s how most solar leases and power-purchase agreements have always worked — and this structure follows the federal clean-energy credit rules in effect after 2025. We’ll gladly go through every page of the agreement with you before you sign anything. No pressure, no surprises.
Do I have to do anything at tax time?
No. Because the credit is captured through the partnership, there’s nothing for you to claim or file — the savings are built into your price up front. As always, we encourage you to consult your own tax professional about your specific situation.
What does 30% look like in real dollars?
As an example: a Tesla Powerwall 3 starts at $10,815 after the tax credit — and as little as $6,965 net after incentives. A Powerwall DC expansion starts at $6,615 after the credit, or $2,765 after incentives. Every home is different, though, and your exact numbers depend on your system and site. Call us and we’ll run them for you in a few minutes.
I’m on NEM 1 or NEM 2 — will adding equipment affect my rates?
This is the question we care most about protecting you on. Adding a non-export solar system, or a battery, can be designed so your existing NEM 1 or NEM 2 agreement stays exactly as it is. That grandfathered pricing is valuable — we build every add-on around keeping it.
Ready to run your numbers?
Call Corda Solar at (925) 725-6622, email Info@cordasolar.com, or request a free quote. We’ll tell you exactly what the 30% benefit means for your home — and what waiting past 2027 would cost you.
Corda Solar, LLC · CSLB #1019424. This article is general information, not tax or financial advice. Program terms are set by HDM Capital and federal law and may change; confirm current terms with us before making decisions.