Solar energy isn’t just good for the environment — it’s good for your wallet, too. If you’re a homeowner in Washington, D.C., you could go solar for $0 upfront cost thanks to a powerful combination of federal tax credits, local incentives, and District Energy’s financing options.

In this post, we’ll break down how D.C. residents can take advantage of these programs and start saving money immediately.

1. The Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC)

The Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows you to deduct 30% of your solar system cost from your federal taxes. This credit applies to:

  • Solar panel systems

  • Battery storage (if charged by solar)

  • Permitting, installation, and labor

💡 Example: If your solar system costs $20,000, you could claim a $6,000 tax credit.

Key Notes:

  • The 30% credit is locked in until 2032

  • It can roll over to future years if you don’t owe enough tax the first year

2. D.C. Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs)

Washington, D.C. has one of the most generous SREC programs in the country.

For every 1,000 kilowatt-hours your system generates, you earn 1 SREC—and these can be sold on the market. Current SREC prices in D.C. range from $300 to $400, turning your sunlight into real cash.

D.C. requires utilities to buy SRECs, which means high demand = better payouts for homeowners.

3. $0-Down Financing Options from District Energy

District Energy offers flexible financing options, including:

  • $0-down solar loans

  • Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs): Pay only for the power you use

  • Lease-to-own programs

This means you can go solar without paying a dime upfront, and often your new solar bill is less than your old utility bill.

4. Bonus Incentives for Battery Storage

Thinking of adding a battery? Battery systems qualify for the same 30% federal tax credit and allow you to:

  • Avoid outages

  • Maximize solar self-consumption

  • Lower demand charges

District Energy installs both Tesla Powerwall and other top battery brands as part of your solar package.

5. Who Qualifies?

You may be eligible if:

  • You own your home in the D.C. metro area

  • You have a roof in good condition

  • You receive electric bills of $100+ per month

  • You have average or better credit (for financing options)

Don’t worry — District Energy offers free evaluations to check if solar is a fit for your home.

Ready to Go Solar?

District Energy makes it simple. With expert installers, top-tier equipment, and decades of local experience, they’ll walk you through every step — from incentive paperwork to final inspection.

Schedule your free solar consultation today and discover how you can power your home with the sun — and pay $0 to do it.