Renewable Energy and Efficiency Incentives In Louisiana
Solar and Wind Energy Credit. Individuals and corporations who install solar or wind energy systems can receive a state tax credit of 50% of the first $25,000 of the cost of each system. The Louisiana credit is in addition to federal tax credits, and the Louisiana tax credit is refundable, meaning you can get a check back from the Department of Revenue for up to $12,500.
Net Metering. Special rules adopted by the Public Service Commission and the New Orleans City Council make Louisiana one of the few places that require utility companies to allow “net metering”. So, if you are not home, or it’s a nice day and you have your windows open, and are not using the energy generated by your renewable system, you can instantaneously sell the excess electricity your system is then producing to your utility company.
Department of Natural Resources Programs. The Louisiana Department of Natural Resources administers two important programs: (1) the Home Energy Rebate Option (HERO) Program under which homeowners can receive rebates of up to 20% of the cost of energy efficiency improvements or the cost of energy saved, provided the improvements increase a building’s efficiency by 30%; and (2) the Home Energy Loan Program (HELP) which allows homeowners to obtain a five-year special reduced-rate loan to improve energy efficiency.
Reduced Rate Incentives. Both the CLECO and DEMCO utilities also provide special reduced rate incentives to customers who make energy efficiency improvements.
Energy Efficiency Measures. Louisiana enacted legislation in July 2007, which requires energy efficiency measures to be incorporated in the construction and renovation of every major facility project funded by the state.
Property Tax Exemption. There is also a special property tax exemption for renewable energy systems installed on your property.