Time’s Ticking: Save Thousands Before the Solar Tax Credit Ends!
- Amy Atchley
- Aug 13
- 5 min read
If you’ve been thinking about going solar but haven’t taken the leap yet, now’s your moment. The federal 30% solar tax credit, one of the biggest financial perks for homeowners making the switch, is set to disappear on December 31, 2025. Once it’s gone, the numbers change: you’ll pay more upfront, it’ll take longer to break even, and the overall return on your investment will drop. If you’ve been considering making the switch to solar in Santa Rosa, this guide will walk you through what’s changing and why acting soon could save you thousands.
What Is the Solar Tax Credit, and Why Is It Ending?
The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) has been a huge driver for solar adoption across the country. It lets you knock 30% off the total cost of your solar system (equipment, labor, permits, everything) right off your federal taxes.
But here’s the kicker: thanks to the recently passed “Big Beautiful Bill”, the credit is ending sooner than expected. There’s no gradual phase-out, no partial credit, once the clock hits midnight on December 31, 2025, it’s gone.
Here’s what that means in plain English:
Install by Dec 31, 2025: ✅ You get the full 30% tax credit
Install after Jan 1, 2026: ❌ No federal tax credit
What This Means for Santa Rosa Homeowners
If you own a home in Santa Rosa or anywhere in Sonoma County, this change could have a big impact on your finances. Here’s how the end of the solar tax credit could affect your ability to save on energy bills and boost your home’s value.
Without the Tax Credit
Upfront costs increase by 30%
Longer payback period (from ~8 years to ~10.5 years)
Fewer homeowners can access affordable solar
This isn't just a number on paper. For a $25,000 solar roofing system, the 30% credit saves you $7,500. That’s money you’ll lose if you wait past the deadline. Solar installers are booking up through the end of the year now.
If you're in Santa Rosa or the North Bay, where utility rates continue to rise and the climate supports year-round solar production, the tax credit offers substantial, long-term savings.
Does Solar Still Make Sense Without the Credit?
Yes, but it’s less of a slam-dunk financially.
Even without the credit, solar:
● Pays itself back over time through lower electricity bills
● Adds 3–5% in resale value to your home
● Shields you from rising utility costs
● Gives you greater energy independence
However, the payback timeline stretches longer, and your return on investment shrinks unless you act before the deadline.
If I need a new roof can I get that done in time?
Yes. If your roof is getting on in years you should replace it before you get solar, and luckily there is still time.
Why You Should Start Now (Not Next Year)
Here’s what many homeowners don’t realize: your system must be installed and paid for by December 31, 2025 to qualify. That means…
● Permitting takes 1–2 months
● High demand will cause backlog in fall and winter 2025
● Installers and financing companies will be overwhelmed
● Distributors expect supplies for modules and batteries may be limited
By starting now, you avoid the last-minute rush, secure better installation dates, and ensure your eligibility for the solar tax credit.
Your Solar Options in Santa Rosa
Every homeowner’s situation is different, and fortunately, there’s more than one way to go solar in Santa Rosa. Whether you want full ownership, prefer a lease, or just want to support clean energy through the grid, here are your options.
1. Outright Purchase
The best option for maximizing the 30% solar tax credit. Long-term savings and full ownership.
2. Leased Solar Systems
Leasing is still eligible for the credit, but the solar company gets the tax benefit, not you. This may slightly reduce your monthly payment but cuts into your overall savings.
Worried About Affording Solar?
We get it, not everyone can pay out of pocket. That’s why Amy’s Roofing & Solar offers flexible financing options through:
● State-supported clean energy programs
● County assistance and rebates
● Private lenders with solar-specific terms
But financing programs will face their own demand surge as 2025 winds down. The sooner you apply, the better your chances of getting approval and locking in the credit.
Why Work with Amy’s Roofing & Solar?
As a local, family-run business serving Santa Rosa and the greater North Bay since 2020, we’ve helped hundreds of families lower their energy costs and increase their home's value, with honesty, efficiency, and sustainability at the core of everything we do.
What Sets Us Apart
● Licensed Experts: We’re C-10 (Electrical), C-39 (Roofing) certified, ang B (General Building)
● Integrated Solar Roofing: One contractor for both your roof and solar, no extra scheduling or finger-pointing between trades
● Fast Installation Timelines: Beat the deadline with our experienced, streamlined crews
● Community First: We prioritize local homeowners over big-box installs or high-pressure sales tWhat’s the Process?actics
We treat your home like it's our own.
What’s the Process?
Going solar may seem complex, but we’ve made it simple and stress-free. Here’s a step-by-step look at how we handle your project, from your first quote to final installation, so you know exactly what to expect.
Free Quote & Site Assessment
Custom System Design for Your Roof & Needs
Permitting & Paperwork (Handled by Our Team)
Installation & Final Inspection
Utility interconnection paperwork support
You’re not alone in the process, we walk you through every step.
Take Action Before the Clock Runs Out
The 30% federal solar tax credit has helped millions of Americans go solar, but its expiration is now certain.
By acting early, you lock in thousands in savings, gain control of your energy bills, and make a smart long-term investment in your property.
Ready to Lock in Your 30% Credit?
We’re here to help with:
✅ Free Quotes
✅ Fast Installs
✅ Financing Assistance
✅ Full Roofing + Solar Packages
Bottom Line: Don’t Miss Your Window to Save
Whether you’re exploring solar Santa Rosa, planning for a full solar roofing project, or just beginning to research options, the message is clear: Time is running out.
We believe in solar for the long haul, for cleaner air, for community resilience, and for saving money. And right now, the solar tax credit makes the decision easier than ever.
Don't let this opportunity pass. You deserve clean, affordable energy, and a local team that’s got your back.
Contact Amy’s Roofing & Solar Today
Don't wait until permit offices and financing pipelines are overwhelmed. Let's get your project rolling while there's still time.
👉 Contact us online now or call us at (707) 981-9801 to schedule your free consultation.