Going Solar in Wisconsin: The State’s Solar Incentives, Advocacy Organizations & More

Wondering if solar is worth it in Wisconsin and what the state’s solar industry looks like? While the state doesn’t have a sun-soaked reputation, making the switch is more affordable than you may think.

Wisconsin has set a goal for all the electricity consumed within the state to be 100% carbon-free by 2050. As part of that, the state has several incentives that can reduce the cost of going solar for homeowners and businesses in the state.

8-27-25 Update: Federal tax incentives are constantly changing.  Please reference our Solar Tax Credits & Incentives page for the most current information.  The Federal Incentives information in this article was accurate prior to the One Big Beautiful Bill being signed into law.

What Solar Incentives Are Available in Wisconsin

Federal Incentives

The Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC): This tax credit is equal to 30% of the cost of the solar installation. This tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the income taxes that a person or company would otherwise pay the federal government. The eligible ITC amount is the sum of materials necessary for a solar installation, including solar panels, inverters, racking, electrical updates, installation, and energy storage of 5 kilowatt hours or greater. Through 2025, tax-exempt organizations, including non-profits and local governments, can also take advantage of this tax credit through direct payment of at least a portion of the credit amount or transfer of the credit.

Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS): This program governs the amount of time that businesses and agricultural operations must spread depreciation over for various pieces of equipment. For solar arrays, that time is 5 years. This accelerated depreciation allows for the tax benefits to be accrued earlier in the array’s productive life, shortening the time it takes for the array to pay for itself.

U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Energy for America Program Grant (REAP): These grants are available for agricultural operations and rural small businesses which invest in renewable energy systems and are located in areas with a population of 50,000 or less. The grants can cover up to 50% of eligible costs of a solar project. (04/01/2026 Update – The Rural Energy for America Program will not be making further grant awards for the fiscal year. Visit the program website for full details.)

Wisconsin-Specific Solar Incentives

Focus on Energy Rebate: Residential installations qualify for a $300 to $600 rebate, depending upon location. Business installations can receive $50 per kW with a maximum of $25,000. Agricultural operations can get another $50 per kW match for up to an additional $10,000.

Wisconsin Solar Sales Tax Exemption: Solar equipment is exempt from sales tax in Wisconsin, saving 5% of the system’s cost.

Wisconsin Property Tax Exemption: Solar energy systems are exempt from property tax in Wisconsin, meaning the taxable value of your home won’t rise because you install solar panels.

Solar-Related Organizations in Wisconsin

From advocacy to education to grants, Wisconsin has several organizations that are helping promote solar energy within the state.

Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA): The Custer, Wisconsin-based non-profit promotes renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable living through education and demonstration. MREA holds The Energy Fair and Demo Day each year in June to bring together thousands of industry professionals, sustainable living enthusiasts, and more for workshops, exhibits, demonstrations, and networking. Additionally, MREA has a podcast, job training, and initiatives to help community residents and schools get solar education and affordable solar installations.

Renew Wisconsin: This renewable energy non-profit organization is based in Madison, Wisconsin. It works on policies and programs to expand the adoption of solar power, wind power, renewable fuels, local hydropower, building electrification, energy storage, and electric vehicles. Renew Wisconsin’s key policy priorities include affirming the legality of third-party financing, implementing fair and clear distributed generation policies, expanding community solar, and building a roadmap for Wisconsin’s zero-carbon future. Each year in January, they host the RENEW Wisconsin Summit, aimed at gathering industry experts, policymakers, innovators, and community leaders to discuss current and future renewable energy opportunities in Wisconsin.

Couillard Solar Foundation: The mission of this Deerfield, Wisconsin-based non-profit is to promote the expansion of solar energy for Wisconsin non-profit organizations. Through grants and education, they help raise awareness of the importance of solar as a way to foster mutual economic and environmental benefit.

Notable Eagle Point Solar Builds in Wisconsin

At Eagle Point Solar, we have extensive experience working on projects within the Badger State including the Milwaukee and Madison areas.. Here are a few of the major projects we have worked on: