A federal bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives may eliminate the 25D solar tax credit and put other solar incentives at risk. This key program enables Florida homeowners to deduct 30% of their solar installation costs from their taxes. The credit is set to expire after December 2025 if the bill becomes law, potentially increasing solar system costs by up to $10,000.
Additional clean energy incentives are also on the chopping block
The same bill proposes ending several other clean energy initiatives:
- Federal rebates for electric vehicles
- Incentives for utility-scale solar
- The Solar for All program (for low-income households)
- Billions in previously approved federal funding for clean energy projects
Middle-class families could be hit the hardest
About half of Florida homeowners who installed solar panels last year utilized the 25D tax credit to help offset the cost, according to EnergySage. Without this credit, many middle- and working-class families may struggle to afford solar energy, especially with rising electricity costs.
Local installers warn of industry fallout
Steve Rutherford, a retired Navy SEAL and founder of Tampa Bay Solar, warns that ending the tax credit could cause the Florida solar market to crash.
“If this credit is taken away, the market won’t slow down, it will drop fast,” said Rutherford. “We’ve built a strong, skilled team over the years. This kind of policy change puts their jobs in real danger.”
His company currently employs 42 people, many of whom are veterans of the military.
Real people, Real Consequences
Sharon Louis, a Tampa Bay Solar employee whose home was flooded during Hurricane Helene, says she depends on solar sales income to support her recovery: “My job helps support my family and my recovery. If solar sales fall, so does my income.”
Despite the growth, Florida still relies heavily on non-solar energy.
Though Florida recently surpassed California in new solar installations, solar still accounts for less than 8% of the state’s total energy supply. Local experts argue that keeping solar affordable is critical for continued growth and energy independence.
Please help us protect Florida Solar Jobs
More than 10,000 solar jobs in Florida are at risk because of a bill that would eliminate the 25D Residential Energy Tax Credit. This bill is now heading to the U.S. Senate, and time is running out.
At Tampa Bay Solar, we’re committed to defending Florida’s clean energy future and the hardworking people behind it. We’re joining forces with FlaSEIA and SEIA to oppose this bill, but we need your support to make a meaningful impact.
Here’s what You Can Do to Help
More than 10,000 solar jobs in Florida are at risk, and your voice matters.
Here’s how you can take action:
- Email your U.S. Senator and urge them to keep the 25D Residential Energy Tax Credit intact.
- Record a short video sharing your story about how solar has helped you or your community.
- Contact Laura at [email protected] to get directly involved in advocacy efforts.
- Use SEIA’s national advocacy tools by visiting the Save Main Street Solar website.
- Explore additional resources through the FlaSEIA Action Hub website.
- Share this information with friends, neighbors, and local groups to raise awareness and promote a healthier community.
- Consider installing solar before the end of 2025 to take advantage of the existing credit.
- Consult with local installers, like Tampa Bay Solar, to understand your options and eligibility.
- Sign up for Residential Lobby Day — June 17
Every email, call, and story matters. Let’s work together to protect solar jobs, lower energy costs, and build a cleaner future for Florida.
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Pasco County: Wesley Chapel, New Port Richey, Zephyrhills, Dade City, Land O’ Lakes, Hudson
