Millions of households receive energy tax credits for upgrades

More than 3.4 million American households claimed $8 billion in energy tax credits last year for efficiency and renewable upgrades, cutting costs through the Inflation Reduction Act.

Clare Fieseler reports for E&E News.


In short:

  • The Treasury Department reports 3.4 million homes received $8 billion in tax credits for energy upgrades like solar panels and efficient windows under the Inflation Reduction Act.
  • California led with 400,000 claims, followed by Texas and Florida, showing bipartisan appeal despite political differences.
  • Nearly half of credit recipients earned less than $100,000 annually, aligning with Biden’s goal of aiding lower-income households in energy transitions.

Key quote:

“Those significant numbers show that these credits are more popular than initially projected.”

— Wally Adeyemo, Deputy Treasury Secretary

Why this matters:

The expanded tax credits promote renewable energy use, significantly cutting costs for American families and encouraging a shift toward more sustainable energy practices. This approach not only aids in reducing household expenses but also contributes to environmental goals by promoting clean energy solutions.

Related:

3D illustration of Brazil renewable energy concept with solar panels and windmills
Credit: Anton_Medvedev/BigStock Photo ID: 281374129

Brazil publishes first global ‘roadmap’ for phasing out fossil fuels

Cop30 host sets out steps to break link with coal, oil and gas as it aims to move focus from negotiating to implementing.

Drone aerial view of new Microsoft data centers
Credit: Mauvries/BigStock Photo ID: 465964923

Why batteries, not gas plants, should be data centers’ first choice

A new report looks at the advantages of using batteries to meet data center demand — and offers some advice for states.

Washed out oceanside highway with drifting sand and "Road Closed" sign
Credit: CherylCasey/BigStock Photo ID: 25714064

Likely costs for Outer Banks highway over next 50 years 'a staggering number'

Years of repetitive weather-related destruction of stretches of N.C. Highway 12 on the Outer Banks have reached a critical stage.

Jet engine with step ladder exposed to reveal inner workings

Old, polluting jet engines are being scavenged to power data centers

They’re rapidly being converted into generators to meet A.I.’s insatiable demand for electricity. Environmentalists call it a step backward.

American flag superimposed against the U.S. capitol building.

Democrats seize Congress, Statehouses in referendum on the economy

Voters sought action on energy costs, corruption and data centers in an election environmentalists believe sets the stage for renewed climate policy.
A series of solar panels in a field with mountains in the distance

China is leading the clean energy industry. Will it redraw the lines of global power?

China secured 23 of the world’s 36 major clean industrial projects financed last year, as emerging economies advanced past both Europe and the US.
Two farmers examining their field

To make progress on climate, some farmers won't say 'climate'

Changes to agriculture could help reduce emissions and build resilience on farms, but some advocates say it’s better not to talk about it.
From our Newsroom
Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro speaks with the state flag and American flag behind him.

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

silhouette of people holding hands by a lake at sunset

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

wildfire retardants being sprayed by plane

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.

Stay informed: sign up for The Daily Climate newsletter
Top news on climate impacts, solutions, politics, drivers. Delivered to your inbox week days.