There’s Hope for Storage — But the Future of Solar and Wind Just Got a Lot Cloudier

Mahir

Forum Founder & Knowledge Hub Curator
Staff member

There’s Hope for Storage — But the Future of Solar and Wind Just Got a Lot Cloudier​

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The Senate is pushing forward with the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” and it’s shaping up to be a major turning point for U.S. renewables.

If you’re in solar, wind, or storage — here’s what you need to know:

Solar & Wind Tax Credits Are Being Slashed

The Senate bill phases out federal incentives faster than expected:
  • 2025: 100% credit (must start construction this year)
  • 2026: 60%
  • 2027: 20%
  • 2028+: 0%
Bottom line: If your project isn’t shovel-ready in 2025, you’ll likely miss out on most federal support. Developers are rushing to re-sequence pipelines and lock in permits now.

Storage Survives — Full Credits Stay Through 2033

  • BESS (standalone and paired) still gets the full ITC
  • Gradual phase-down starts after 2033
  • No new restrictions or limitations announced (so far)
This is the one bright spot in the bill — and could tilt the market toward storage-first strategies.

New Excise Tax on Foreign Components

Starting in 2028, projects using components from “foreign entities of concern” (mainly China) will face new import taxes.

Applies to:
  • Solar modules & inverters
  • Wind turbine components
  • Battery hardware
This could shake up supply chains and pricing for 2026–2028 COD projects.

EV Charging Credit Still Alive (for Now)

  • Section 30C credit still applies
  • But only for projects placed in service within 12 months of bill enactment

What’s Next?

  • Senate aims to vote by July 4
  • Then heads back to the House for final negotiation
  • Passage is likely — but timing could slip to mid-July

Sources for More Info

How are you adjusting project timelines or procurement strategy in response?
Would love to hear how others are approaching this — especially for 2026+ buildouts.
 
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