Solar Energy Insights & Tips: Stay Informed with Our Blog
The 30% Federal Tax Credit, Explained: How It Still Works for Solar & Batteries Through 2027
The 30% federal tax credit is still available through 2027 — the way you receive it has changed. Plain answers to the questions we hear most.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Solar PV System
Introduction Installing a solar PV system is an exciting journey toward sustainability and energy savings. This step-by-step guide outlines what to expect during the installation
5 Benefits of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems for Commercial Properties
Introduction Commercial properties in California can significantly benefit from solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. From cost savings to sustainability, here are the top five reasons to
Complete Guide to Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems
Introduction Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are revolutionizing the way we harness energy, offering a sustainable and cost-effective solution for residential and commercial properties. As California
What to do about dirt, ash, or dust on your solar panels
[This post was revised on Feb. 17, 2021 to update information about the significant ash fall experienced in the Easy Bay in Sept. 2020.] From
Stop the Utility Profit Grab!
If you own solar panels or you care about the future or clean solar energy in California, please recognize that the utilities are working hard
Can Solar Panels Be Recycled?
Recently, Corda Solar helped a customer retire some old, but still working, solar panels in order to upgrade to newer, more efficient panels. With steady
Covid19 Hygenic Protocols Update
Effective April 1, Corda Solar will temporarily suspend all construction projects per the Contra Costa County Health Department’s March 31 order. After speaking with a
Common Spring Maintenance Issues
During spring start up, owners of pool solar systems should be aware of common maintenance issues. For customers who chose to use our spring start
Customer Announcement re: Covid-19 Pandemic
On March 16, both counties in which Corda Solar operates (Contra Costa and Alameda) issued shelter-in-place orders because of the Covid-19 pandemic. On March 19,
Ben & Sofia Corda Never Dreamed of Solar: A Social Commentary and Tribute to Our Immigrant Ancestors
Not quite 100 years before Gary and Courtney Corda opened Corda Solar, Ben and Sofia Corda opened Corda’s Market, a corner store in Stratford, Connecticut.
Claim Your Tax Credit!
Did you go solar last year? Here are some good tips and info from Intuit’s TurboTax about claiming your tax credit on your tax return.
Fall Shut Down for Pool Solar
Autumn is here and it will soon be time to shut down your solar pool heat system for the season. If you prefer for us
Think your solar rights are safe? Think again.
Last month, the California Solar and Storage Association (CSSA, a trade association for companies in the solar industry) called to ask me if I could
PG&E’s new local rival: MCE
Executive Summary: MCE to Enter Electricity Market in Contra Costa County Coming in April of 2018, PG&E will no longer be the only electric service
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer financing?
Yes, Corda Solar partners with local and national lenders which specialize in solar loans.
What is the federal solar tax credit?
Both businesses and individuals may take advantage of this tax credit. For individuals, the credit is officially called the “Residential Clean Energy Credit.” To claim it, homeowners file IRS form 5695. You can find detailed information in the Energy Department’s Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics. To be eligible, an individual must OWN the solar photovoltaic and/or battery energy storage equipment (as opposed to LEASING it) and it must be installed on the primary residence (as opposed to a second home). There are no income requirements or maximums. The tax credit is not a rebate; instead it reduces your federal tax bill. For example, if you paid $40,000 to install a solar and battery system in the current tax year, when you file your tax return for that tax year, you would reduce the amount you owe in taxes by $12,000 ($40,000 * 30% = $12,000). For businesses, the tax credit is a bit more complicated. The amount of the tax credit (between 6% and 50%) will depend on factors such as whether the installed equipment was imported, whether the installation met Department of Labor requirements for wages and apprenticeships, and even where the project is located. The Energy Department offers a guide to the Federal Solar Tax Credits for Businesses. To claim the credit, businesses file IRS form 3468.
How to qualify for federal solar tax credit?
The rules changed after 2025. Homeowners can no longer claim the 30% credit on their own tax return, but the full 30% benefit is still available for systems installed by December 31, 2027 when the system is owned by a qualifying clean-energy partner. That’s why Corda Solar partners with HDM Capital.
- Pay once, up front. You sign a short-term prepaid agreement with HDM Capital, and the 30% benefit is already deducted from your price.
- Use it from day one. HDM owns the system during a holding period (currently six years) and captures the federal credit. Your solar and battery power your home exactly as if you’d bought them outright.
- Then it’s yours. At the end of the holding period, ownership transfers to you at no additional cost.
- Nothing to file. There’s nothing to claim at tax time. The savings are built into your price.
Get the full details in our 30% Tax Credit FAQ, or call us at (925) 725-6622 and we’ll walk you through it. We always recommend checking with your own tax professional about your situation.
Do you use subcontractors?
Corda Solar employs its own staff of skilled solar installers. Corda Solar does not use subcontractors for solar equipment installation. Corda Solar does not use temporary installers or day laborers. The company pays its installers competitive wages and offers benefits including healthcare. For certain projects, Corda Solar may hire a licensed subcontractor to complete work that falls outside the scope of our solar expertise, such as trimming trees. We may also recommend that a client hire a licensed contractor to complete any non-solar work that might be required prior to solar installation such as a roofer or plumber.
why the East Bay Trusts corda solar
Jon Medina
Google review
Brandon S
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Tom Yerkes
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Andrew S
Google review
They installed the panels when they said they would and they are working great. We had our first -$80 power bill within 2 months. There have been a couple of kinks to work out and Nathan has been super-responsive. Amazing service.
y true
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Get a free solar quote today
Discover how much you could save with Corda Solar.
Get a free solar quote today
Discover how much you could save with Corda Solar.
