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Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credits: What Homeowners Can Claim

Published May 28, 2026 at 11:54 pm | By Vicki Bray, Staff Reporter

Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credits: What Homeowners Can Claim

Homeowners in Rock Hill and across the nation can benefit from significant federal tax credits aimed at promoting energy efficiency in their homes. Through the end of 2025, homeowners can claim up to $3,200 per year in federal tax credits for qualifying energy efficiency improvements.

The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit covers 30% of costs for a variety of eligible improvements. This includes heat pumps, which can yield a credit of up to $2,000, as well as windows and skylights that can earn up to $600, and exterior doors that can provide a $500 credit. Homeowners can also receive $150 for insulation and home energy audits.

In addition to the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, homeowners may also take advantage of the Residential Clean Energy Credit. This credit offers a 30% credit for solar energy systems, geothermal heat pumps, small wind turbines, fuel cells, and battery storage. Notably, any excess credit from this category can be carried forward to future tax years, providing additional flexibility for homeowners looking to invest in renewable energy solutions.

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One of the appealing aspects of the energy efficiency home improvement credit is that there is no lifetime dollar limit. Homeowners can claim the maximum annual credit every year that eligible improvements are made. However, it is important to note that these credits are nonrefundable and cannot exceed the taxpayer’s annual tax liability for most categories.

To qualify for these credits, improvements must be made to an existing home that serves as the taxpayer’s primary residence. New construction does not qualify for the energy efficiency improvement credit, which means Rock Hill homeowners looking to upgrade their existing homes will need to focus on renovations rather than new builds.

For installations completed in 2025, it is essential that manufacturers provide a Qualified Manufacturer Identification Number (QMID), which must be reported on the tax return. This requirement underscores the importance of keeping accurate records and documentation of any improvements made.

To claim these credits, homeowners will need to fill out IRS Form 5695 for the tax year in which the improvement is installed, rather than when the purchase is made. This detail is crucial for ensuring that homeowners receive the appropriate tax benefits in a timely manner.

As energy costs continue to rise, Rock Hill homeowners have a unique opportunity to reduce their expenses while also contributing to a more sustainable future. By taking advantage of these federal tax credits, residents can make meaningful improvements to their homes that enhance energy efficiency and potentially save them thousands of dollars in the long run. With the deadline for these credits extending through 2025, now is the time for homeowners to consider their options and start planning their energy-efficient upgrades.

What's Happening
What happened?
Homeowners can claim up to $3,200 per year in federal tax credits for qualifying energy efficiency improvements through the end of 2025.
Why does it matter to Rock Hill?
The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit covers 30% of costs for eligible improvements including heat pumps (up to $2,000), windows and skylights ($600), exterior doors ($500), insulation, and home energy audits ($150).
What's next?
The Residential Clean Energy Credit provides a 30% credit for solar energy systems, geothermal heat pumps, small wind turbines, fuel cells, and battery storage - excess credit from this category carries forward to future tax years.
Vicki Bray
HERE Rock Hill · HOME & GARDEN

Vicki is a staff reporter for HERE Rock Hill covering local news, community stories, and developments across York County. Vicki is committed to accurate, community-first journalism.

Contact Vicki
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