June 13, 2025 | Big Dog Solar School — As U.S. Congress considers major changes to renewable energy policy, Big Dog Solar is raising concerns about the future of solar incentives and asking homeowners to set up their solar energy systems now before it’s too late.
The proposed “Big Beautiful Bill” currently under debate in Washington could roll back or eliminate the 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for residential solar systems beginning in 2026. This tax credit has been one of the most impactful tools for making solar accessible for everyday Americans.
Big Dog Solar, based in Idaho and serving customers in Boise, Pocatello, Helena, and Grand Junction, has been closely tracking the potential policy shift. This week, company leadership met with U.S. Senator Mike Crapo’s (R-ID) chief of staff to voice concern over the proposal and advocate for preserving solar incentives.
Kenny Pfannenstiel, the Chief Operating Officer here at Big Dog Solar, said the credit has helped accelerate solar power in newer markets like Idaho and Montana.
“We see a lot of interest from people who want to control their own energy future, or who worry about the grid being available when they need it,” Pfannenstiel said in a New York Times article. He said that once tax credits expanded, “the economic argument for those customers to install solar and battery systems became a lot stronger.”
If the credits vanished, Pfannenstiel said that while some customers might still move forward, the market “would shrink drastically.”
Under the current federal policy, homeowners can deduct 30% of their solar installation costs from their federal taxes. For a typical $20,000 system, that’s a $6,000 savings. But if the Big Beautiful Bill passes, this credit could be reduced or eliminated entirely after December 31, 2025.
The potential change has created uncertainty for homeowners and solar businesses alike. Many industry experts worry that without federal support, the momentum of residential solar adoption, especially in rural and emerging markets, could stall.
Here at Big Dog Solar, we want to share that the stakes for this go beyond short-term savings—slashing solar incentives could limit consumer energy choice, reduce long-term grid stability, and slow down economic opportunities in regions where the solar workforce is just beginning to grow.
In rural markets like Idaho and Montata, we’ve seen this solar tax incentive make a real difference. We’ve seen families take control of their energy use by investing in battery storage—which prepares them for grid outages or rising utility rates—and we want to make sure anyone has that chance to go solar.
The demand for solar remains strong, but timing is critical for homeowners looking to make the switch! Here at Big Dog Solar, we use any prospective solar customers to move quickly. To be eligible for the full 30% federal tax credit, solar systems must be fully installed and operational before the end of 2025. We recommend starting the process soon to avoid potential policy or supply chain delays.
To learn more about current federal solar incentives or to have a personalized consultation, visit us at bigdogsolar.com! We want to show you the true power of solar energy and how it can benefit your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), and how does it benefit me?
The ITC is a federal incentive that allows homeowners to deduct 30% of their solar installation costs from their federal income taxes. For example, if your system costs $20,000, you could save $6,000 through this credit. It significantly lowers the upfront cost of going solar—but it’s set to expire or be reduced after December 31, 2025, if new legislation passes.
What is the “Big Beautiful Bill,” and why is it important?
The “Big Beautiful Bill” is a proposed federal law that could reduce or eliminate the 30% solar tax credit starting in 2026. If passed, it could make solar less affordable for many families. Big Dog Solar is actively advocating against this change and encouraging homeowners to install systems before the end of 2025 to lock in maximum savings.
Do I need to have my system fully installed by the end of 2025 to qualify for the credit?
Yes. To receive the full 30% tax credit, your solar system must be completely installed and operational by December 31, 2025. Starting the process now ensures you have time to handle permitting, equipment availability, and scheduling before the deadline.
Why is Big Dog Solar encouraging action now?
We’ve seen firsthand how these tax credits have helped families in places like Idaho and Montana gain energy independence and prepare for rising utility costs. With the potential expiration of these incentives, we want every homeowner to have the chance to go solar while the savings are still available. Acting now means maximizing your return and protecting your energy future.
