Complete Guide to Solar Energy in Delaware
Your complete resource for solar energy in Delaware. Everything you need to know about solar laws, solar costs, solar financing, and solar installation.
Why Delaware is Perfect for Solar Energy
Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs)
Delaware’s SREC program provides additional revenue for solar owners, with credits valued at approximately $30 per MWh for the first 10 years and $10 per MWh for years 11-25. This ongoing income stream significantly improves solar economics and accelerates payback periods beyond net metering savings alone.
Property Tax Exemption
Delaware exempts all personal property, including solar photovoltaic equipment, from property taxes. Solar installations add zero property tax burden, allowing homeowners to benefit from increased home value without any additional taxation on the solar system throughout its lifetime.
Full Retail Rate Net Metering
Delaware mandates net metering with full retail rate credits for excess solar production. Surplus energy sent to the grid earns credits at the same rate you pay for electricity, maximizing savings. Unused credits roll over for 12 months, and you can request payment for annual surplus.
Federal Tax Credit Expiring
The 30% federal Investment Tax Credit expires December 31, 2025, representing the final opportunity for maximum federal savings. Combined with Delaware’s SREC program, property tax exemption, and net metering, 2025 offers optimal conditions for solar investment.
Quick Solar Facts
Explore Solar Topics
Laws & Regulations
Federal ITC, SREC program, net metering requirements, solar access rights, HOA protections, property tax exemptions, and Delaware Electric Cooperative rebates.
Residential Solar
Complete guide for Delaware homeowners, system components, benefits, installation requirements, and understanding Delmarva Power and Delaware Electric Cooperative interconnection processes.
Costs & Savings
2025 pricing ($2.19-$2.99/watt), cost breakdown, savings calculations with electricity rates (~16.62¢/kWh), SREC revenue, payback periods, and comprehensive ROI analysis.
Financing Options
Solar loans, leases, PPAs, Delaware Green Energy Program (low-to-moderate income), PACE financing, and available incentive programs for Delaware residents.
Installation Guide
Choosing installers, permits, contracts, installation process, utility interconnection requirements, SREC registration, and DEC rebate applications.
Solar 101
Basics of solar technology, components, panel types, efficiency ratings, battery storage options, and maintenance requirements for Delaware’s coastal climate.
Community Solar
Shared solar programs, community solar gardens, third-party financing options, and renewable energy programs for renters and those without suitable roofs.
Solar Calculator
Estimate your solar savings and system requirements based on Delaware electricity rates, SREC revenue potential, net metering credits, and regional sunshine levels.
Quick Solar Savings Calculator
Important 2026 Updates
Federal ITC Expiration
The 30% federal Investment Tax Credit expires December 31, 2025. Systems must be installed and operational by year-end to qualify. No residential solar tax credit exists after 2025.
IRS Residential Clean Energy Credit →Net Metering Regulation Updates
Delaware Public Service Commission approved changes to net metering regulations in 2025, including increased system size limits and updated interconnection procedures for enhanced solar access.
Delaware PSC Net Metering Updates →Delaware Solar Laws & Regulations
Understanding the legal framework that supports solar energy in Delaware
Federal Incentives
30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC) available through December 31, 2025, saving $4,500-$7,500 on typical residential systems. No residential credit after 2025.
Learn More →SREC Program
Solar Renewable Energy Credits provide $30/MWh for first 10 years, $10/MWh for years 11-25. Additional revenue stream beyond electricity savings significantly improves solar ROI.
Learn More →Solar Access Rights
Delaware law protects homeowners’ rights to install solar systems. HOAs cannot prohibit solar but may impose reasonable restrictions that don’t significantly increase costs or decrease efficiency.
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