How We Got Here: The RPS, Tax Credits, and Why Some Solar Deals Went Sideways

If you’ve ever asked yourself how solar went from a good idea to a nightmare of liens, broken promises, and inflated bills—this is your crash course. We’ll unpack how state policy sparked demand, how federal tax credits fueled growth, and how weak guardrails let greed creep in.

1. The Spark: State Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS)

With pressure from the Federal Government, most states adopted Renewable Portfolio Standards—rules that forced utilities to add renewable power to their portfolio. To prove compliance, they used renewable energy certificates (RECs), and in some states, special “SRECs” just for solar. These rules created the steady demand that made solar worth investing in.

Plain talk: States flipped the “Solar: ON” switch and the market came running.

2. The Rocket Fuel: Federal Tax Credits

For years, homeowners who purchased and owned their solar could claim a 30% federal tax credit. This was originally a tax rebate and eventually became a true tax credit, not a rebate check. These made the solar math work for many families, or so it appeared.

Recent update: The 30% credit for homeowner-owned solar ends after December 31, 2025. After that, it’s gone. What remains is a two year off ramp on the tax credits for PPA and Leases. We believe Congress got this backwards. 

Due Diligence is required anytime you make a large purchase or investment. This is more important now than ever before when reviewing a solar agreement. 

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3. The Unseen.. 

• Financing & Dealer Fees: Inflated finance prices bring a 20–35% higher cost to you than cash. Solar loans provided through your solar company typically required that you reinvest the tax credit back into the loan or your monthly payments jumps up. Many people signed on to these only to find out later that they don't qualify for the tax credit. In short, the price is inflated by a significant dealer fee, and then you are required to add the tax credit back into the loan in 18 months. If you want to purchase with a loan, find one without dealer fees.

• Tax Credit Confusion: It’s not a rebate check; if you don’t qualify, payments can jump. Check with your tax advisor. 

• Hidden Liens: UCC-1 filings that surprise homeowners when refinancing or selling.

• Lease and Power Purchase Agreements: These agreements looked welcoming. No money out of pocket, simply pay the monthly solar bill which would be  less than paying for the electricity. The solar company takes the tax credit and also obtains a benefit for system value depreciation over 5 years. They also take any available RECs. 

4. The results: 

Homeowners subscribed to these government incentivized solar programs. It was good for the environment and good for your wallet at the same time..right?  Today, many homeowners are facing bankrupt solar providers, high costs to remove and replace the system when a new roof is needed, UCC-1 entanglements, non-functioning or under performing systems and more. Some regulatory policy changes have added more fees to homes with solar, further narrowing the expected savings. The lines between unforeseen challenges and greed driven deception are blurry and homeowners are left holding the bag. 

Need help with an existing system?

Solar Escalations, LLC assists homeowners frustrated or abandoned by fine print, and missing or unethical solar companies. We also take your stories to legislators to push for stronger consumer protections. Complaining on social media is not enough. If you’ve got concerns—or a mess—bring it to us. We’ll help you sort it out. 

If you agree that stronger protections and relief are needed for homeowners, become a voice for change by joining our Ambassador program. https://solarescalations.com/ambassadors-for-change

What is your "Solar Story" ? 

John Ryan                                                                                                                                                              Executive Director                                                                                                                                              Solar Escalations, LLC

www.solarescalations.com

This post is for educational purposes only, not tax or legal advice. Consult with your Attorney or Tax Advisor when needed.

👉 Coming Next: Why Some States Do Not Allow Solar Leases & PPAs
We’ll explain why third-party solar deals (leases and PPAs) look attractive up front but often turn into long-term traps for homeowners—hurting home resale value, and savings.