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Our blog covers the latest trends in home electrification, from news to product launches to tips for lowering your energy usage.

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By now, you know that Donald Trump will start his second presidential term in January. What that means for the Inflation Reduction Act, which provides various clean energy incentives to homeowners, is still very much up in the air. In this article, we'll explain what we know, what incentives are at risk, and why solar makes sense for everyone—regardless of your politics.

The Federal Reserve on Thursday cut interest rates for the second time this year, dropping the federal funds rate another 25 basis points, bringing the benchmark lending rate down to 4.5% - 4.75%. November’s rate cut comes after the Fed in September lowered rates for the first time in four years – and is further good news for homeowners looking to go solar.

Homeowners have been able to take advantage of federal solar tax credits for years. However, nonprofits and other tax-exempt organizations weren’t able to take advantage of similar valuable incentives until the Inflation Reduction Act was passed in 2022. Under the new rules, tax-exempt entities — such as state and local governments, tribes, nonprofits, and houses of worship — are now able to claim tax credits for a qualifying project through a direct pay option. 

They say there’s no time like the present—that’s especially true if you live in North Carolina and are thinking of installing solar panels. North Carolina has some of the best solar incentives in the nation thanks to its major utility, Duke Energy with its biggest incentive, The PowerPair program.

But this opportunity won’t be around forever, and PowerPair is creeping closer to capacity.

When choosing a home heating system, you should consider factors like costs to install and maintain the system, operational limitations due to extreme outdoor temperature, and how your home may be impacted by the new equipment.

Wondering if a solar battery is the right addition to your solar panel system? Watch this webinar as EnergySage’s Senior Writer, Emily Walker, breaks down the latest solar battery industry insights and homeowner trends. You’ll also hear expert advice from Martyna Kowalczyk, an installer from SolarTime USA, based in Dallas, Texas, on how to maximize your investment.