Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s Property Tax Exemption for solar energy systems allows homeowners to exclude the value of their solar installation from property tax assessments. This means when you install solar panels on your home, your property taxes won’t increase despite the added value to your property. The exemption applies to all components specifically part of the solar energy system that wouldn’t be present in a conventional energy setup.

To qualify, homeowners must complete and submit Form PR-303 (Energy System Exemption Request) to their local assessor by March 1. You’ll need to include supporting documentation such as system specifications, manufacturer information, and operating requirements. The exemption covers solar systems used for electricity generation, space heating, water heating, or a combination of these purposes. Remember that this is an ongoing exemption with no expiration date, but you must apply before the March 1 deadline to receive the exemption for that tax year.

Wisconsin offers a valuable Sales Tax Exemption for solar energy systems that can significantly reduce your upfront installation costs. This state tax incentive exempts you from paying state sales tax (5%) on the purchase of solar equipment that produces at least 200 watts of alternating current or 600 British thermal units per day. The exemption applies to solar panels, inverters, mounting hardware, and other components necessary for installation.

To qualify, your solar system must meet the minimum power production requirements and be used primarily for your home’s energy needs. There’s no expiration date on this incentive, making it available to all Wisconsin homeowners planning a solar installation. When purchasing a system, make sure your solar installer properly applies this exemption at the point of sale. This benefit works alongside other incentives like the federal solar tax credit, helping to make your transition to clean energy more affordable.

Focus on Energy’s Solar for Homes program offers Wisconsin homeowners cash rebates to help offset the cost of installing solar electric (photovoltaic) systems. This state program provides $300 per system for single-family homes, with an additional $300 bonus available for residents in qualifying rural ZIP codes, bringing the potential total to $600. For multifamily buildings, rebates can reach up to $25,000.

To qualify, your utility company must participate in Focus on Energy, and your solar system must meet specific requirements: minimum capacity of 0.5 kWDC, installation within 135 degrees of due south, panel tilt between 5-50 degrees, and less than 15% obstacle shading. The system must be grid-tied, installed behind the meter, and have at least a five-year warranty. For equipment installed in 2025, applications must be submitted within 60 days of installation, no later than August 31, 2025. Funding is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so early application is recommended.

Wisconsin’s Net Metering program allows solar homeowners to receive credit for excess electricity their system sends back to the grid. When your solar panels produce more electricity than your home uses, your utility meter runs backward, and you receive credit on your bill. This program is available through Wisconsin’s major utilities including We Energies, Alliant Energy, and Madison Gas & Electric (MGE).

The financial benefit varies by utility. With We Energies and Alliant Energy, you receive full retail rate credit when your monthly production doesn’t exceed your usage. Any excess is credited at a lower avoided cost rate (approximately 3-7¢/kWh). MGE offers full retail rate credit for the first year, then determines your status as either a ‘net purchaser’ (continuing to receive full retail credit) or ‘net seller’ (receiving avoided cost rates for excess production). All utilities provide monthly settlement, with accumulated credits appearing on your bill until they exceed $100, at which point you can request payment by check.

Time-of-Use customers should note that on-peak and off-peak production and consumption are netted separately, with different credit rates depending on the time period. There are no specific eligibility requirements mentioned beyond being a customer of these utilities with a grid-connected solar system. This is an ongoing program with no mentioned expiration date, making it a reliable long-term benefit for Wisconsin solar homeowners.