Solar incentives and financing in West Virginia
- Factsheet
What are solar incentives?
There are several types of incentives that can help you go solar. Explore the basics of solar incentives and how they can help you save money.
Solar incentives in West Virginia
West Virginia does not currently offer state-specific incentives.
Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)
The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) provides grants and/or loans to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems. They are available for energy efficiency improvements as well.
How do I know if my farm or small business qualifies for REAP?
Click here to see if you are eligible for a REAP grant.
What does the REAP program provide?
- Competitive grants are available for up to 50% of total eligible project costs.
- Loan guarantees are available for up to 75% of total eligible project costs.
How can I get help applying for a REAP grant?
Check out our resources to help you secure a grant or loan.
Financing
Power Purchase Agreements
In 2021, West Virginia became the 29th state to allow Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). PPAs are a widely available method to finance distributed energy generation projects.
Check with your installer to see if they offer in-house leasing or PPA options.
How do Power Purchase Agreements work?
- A tax-paying third-party developer installs, owns, and operates a distributed energy system on a customer’s property.
- A customer purchases the system’s electric output at a fixed rate – generally lower than that of the local electric utility – for a predetermined time period, usually 15 to 25 years.
Who can use a Power Purchase Agreement?
- Municipalities and governments
- Commercial businesses and manufacturers
- Tax-exempt entities like schools, churches, hospitals, and nonprofits
- Farms
- Homeowners
How do Power Purchase Agreements benefit customers?
- Electric savings from day one
- Little to no upfront cost
- Stabilized energy costs
- Protection against utility rate increases
- PPAs allow tax-exempt customers to benefit from tax credits through the project’s developer
Considering a Power Purchase Agreement in West Virginia? Learn more.
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