Hi bowercg,
Thank you for asking! Based on IRS, "the residential energy property credit is nonrefundable. A nonrefundable tax credit allows taxpayers to lower their tax liability to zero, but not below zero." For your question, Yes, you will need to have taxable income exceeding the Tax Credit amount so you can receive the credit.
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/energy-incentives-for-individuals-residential-property-updated-question...
https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/going-green/federal-tax-credit-for-solar-energy/L7s9ZiB4D
I hope this answers to your question. If you have any further question, you can always call TurboTax Live so our Tax Expert can assist you with your tax scenario.
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