Can I include the cost of the structure built to put solar panels on that supply power to my home for federal energy credit?

[NYKluesner]

I am installing a barn, with solar panels on it's roof, to provide electricity to our primary residence.  Does the cost to build the barn (it serves as supporting structure for the solar panels) count towards the 30% tax credit?

[shelley-fontaine]

We are installing a solar pavillion with solar panels on it's roof to provide electricity to our primary residence.  Does the cost of the solar pavilion (it serves as supporting structure for the solar panels) count towards the 30% tax credit?  Does the solar pavilion and the solar panels have to be permitted together as a "solar system" to qualify for the rebate or can they be built/permitted separately?

[PatriciaV · Accepted solution]

Yes, the Solar Energy Credit for 2017 includes installation costs like structures to support the panels. Note that the credit is capped at 30% of the cost (with no upper limit). 

This credit is limited to your income tax liability, so if you don't owe any income taxes because your exemptions, standard or itemized deductions plus some other credits take your income tax liability to zero, you won't get a benefit from this credit. On a positive note, however, the solar panel credit carries forward and can be used to offset income tax liability in future years.

For more info, see: 

• EnergyStar - Federal Tax Credits - Solar Energy Systems
• IRS Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit (Section 25D) at a Glance