If you run a nonprofit organization in Maine, solar is now a real financial opportunity—thanks to a powerful incentive called Direct Pay.
Introduced under the Inflation Reduction Act, this federal program allows tax-exempt entities to receive the same 30% solar rebate as private homeowners and businesses—in cash.
Here’s how it works, who qualifies, and why now is the time to go solar.
1. What Is Direct Pay?
Direct Pay is a federal program that allows nonprofits to receive the solar tax credit as a cash payment, even if they don’t owe taxes.
Example:
- Solar project cost = $60,000
- 30% credit = $18,000
- You receive a $18,000 check from the IRS after install
No tax liability required. No complicated tax workarounds. Just cash back.
2. Who Qualifies for Direct Pay?
Eligible organizations include:
- 501(c)(3) nonprofits
- Schools
- Churches and religious institutions
- Town buildings and municipal organizations
- Tribal governments
- Public universities and community centers
If your organization is tax-exempt, you likely qualify.
3. Why It’s a Game-Changer
Before Direct Pay, nonprofits had no way to access the federal solar credit—because they don’t pay federal taxes.
Now, you get equal access to the most important financial incentive in solar.
Before Direct Pay, nonprofits had no way to access the federal solar credit—because they don’t pay federal taxes.
4. Stack It with Local Incentives
In addition to Direct Pay, you may qualify for:
- Net metering credits from CMP
- USDA REAP grants (up to 50% of project cost)
- Energy-efficiency grants and state-level rebates
- Long-term electricity savings of thousands per year
We help identify and combine these savings in your quote.
5. Energy Savings Improve Your Mission
Solar helps nonprofits:
- Cut overhead
- Reinvest energy savings into programs
- Improve building comfort and efficiency
- Position themselves as sustainability leaders
We’ve worked with churches, animal shelters, and small nonprofits across Maine—solar helps support their mission every month.
6. Roof + Solar Bundles Available
If your building needs a new roof, we can bundle it with solar into one coordinated project.
That means:
- One crew
- One warranty
- One seamless install
- Zero hassle
Want to see how much your nonprofit could save with solar?