Federal Solar ITC + Minnesota Solar Incentives
IRS / Xcel Energy / Minnesota Department of Commerce
About This Program
Note: Congress ended this federal tax credit for installations after December 31, 2025. Projects placed in service by that date can still be claimed on your 2025 federal return (IRS Form 5695).
St. Paul homeowners served by Xcel Energy can combine the 30% federal Solar ITC with Xcel's Solar*Rewards program, paying per-kWh for excess generation. Minnesota's Made in Minnesota Solar Incentive (administered by Xcel) offers additional production incentives for MN-manufactured solar panels. Community Solar Gardens are available for those who cannot install rooftop solar.
30% federal ITC + Xcel Solar*Rewards performance payments + potential Made in MN bonus
Record set last reviewed 2026-04-03. How we verify our data.
Other published resources for St. Paul, MN, are listed below. Review each separately and ask the administrators whether they can coordinate funding for the same work:
- City of St. Paul Healthy Homes Program Up to $50,000 grant
- City of St. Paul Power of Home Program Up to $50,000 grant
- City of Saint Paul CDBG Housing Rehabilitation Varies by project; typically $10,000-$35,000
- Ramsey County Critical Repair Grant Up to $10,000 grant
Key Details
- 30% federal ITC on full solar installation cost
- Xcel Energy Solar*Rewards: per-kWh payment over 10 years
- Made in Minnesota Solar Incentive: bonus for MN-manufactured panels
- Community Solar Gardens available for renters or unsuitable rooftops
- Contact MN Commerce: 651-296-5175 for solar program guidance
How to Apply
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Track this programProgram phone: 651-296-5175
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Your application paperwork
Form to file: IRS Form 5695
This is a federal tax credit, not a grant you apply for. You claim 30 percent of the cost of a qualifying solar or clean energy system on your federal tax return using Form 5695.
Steps to apply
- Have your solar or clean energy system installed and pay for it.
- Keep the itemized invoice and proof of payment.
- Complete IRS Form 5695 and file it with your Form 1040 for the year the system was placed in service.
- If the credit is larger than your tax bill, carry the unused amount forward to next year.
Documents you will likely need
- Itemized invoice from your installer showing the system cost.
- Proof of payment.
- Manufacturer certification statement for the equipment.
- Your federal tax return (Form 1040) for the year of installation.
Requirements vary by program and locality. Confirm the exact rules and application route with the administrator. We can help you prepare your paperwork, but you submit it yourself.
Deadline: Ended December 31, 2025 (federal law change)
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More ways to save on this project
Rebates and discounts that may reduce project cost. Confirm eligibility and coordination rules before including one in your budget.
Find More Programs in St. Paul, MN
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