Solar Panels

 The Residential Clean Energy Credit equals 30% of the costs of new, qualified clean energy property for your home installed anytime from 2022 through 2032. The credit is nonrefundable, so the credit amount you receive can't exceed the amount you owe in tax. You can carry forward any excess unused credit, though, and apply it to reduce the tax you owe in future years. So, your credit is limited to your tax liability & the rest is carried forward!!

Residential Clean Energy Credit | Internal Revenue Service

To claim the tax credit for your solar panels, you’ll need to follow these steps:

1. Form 5695: Complete IRS Form 5695, “Residential Energy Credits.” This form calculates the credit amount and is attached to your tax return.
2. Documentation: Keep all receipts and documentation related to the purchase and installation of your solar panels. This includes invoices from the contractor, proof of payment, and any permits or inspection documents.
3. Qualified Expenses: Ensure that your expenses qualify. The credit covers costs for solar panels, labor for installation, and other related equipment like inverters and mounting hardware.
4. Credit Calculation: The credit is typically 30% of the total cost of your solar installation. If your system cost $43,333, a 30% credit would be approximately $13,000.
5. Filing Your Return: When you file your tax return, include Form 5695 to claim the credit. 
6. Carryover: If the credit exceeds your tax liability for the year, you can carry the unused portion to future tax years.

@RobKelp Thanks for the question!!

You only need to report on your tax return the cost of the solar panels plus installation.  You will receive a tax credit on your federal tax return of 30% of the cost.  This is reported on IRS Form 5695 which is included in the TurboTax program under Home Energy Credits.

If the credit reduces your tax liability to zero any remaking credit is carried forward to the next tax year.