Is Solar Still Worth It in Utah After the Tax Credit Ended? (July 2026 Update)

The federal residential solar tax credit ended January 1, 2026, and Tesla's own instant manufacturer rebate has since ended too. If you put off going solar because you were waiting to see what would happen next, here is the honest, current answer on whether it still makes sense.

What actually changed

Two incentives disappeared this year. The federal tax credit, which let cash and loan buyers claim a percentage of their system cost back on their taxes, ended January 1, 2026. Tesla's manufacturer-funded instant rebate, which ran through a July 4, 2026 deadline, has also concluded. Anyone telling you those are still active is behind on the current landscape.

What is still on the table

Ask Solar Mike still offers 30 percent off qualifying systems, plus his own $2,000 rebate. Rocky Mountain Power customers also qualify for a separate $2,000 rebate directly through RMP, stacking with Mike's offer for up to $4,000 in combined rebates on top of the 30 percent. Municipal utility customers get the 30 percent and Mike's $2,000 rebate, without the RMP-specific piece. None of this requires filing anything on your taxes.

The bigger reason solar still makes sense: rates keep climbing

Even without the old federal credit, the core math behind solar has not changed, because it was never really about a one-time incentive. Utilities are projecting close to 10 percent annual electricity rate increases in Utah, nearly triple the historical 4 percent, driven by AI data-center demand and the cost of modernizing an aging grid. A solar system locks in your cost of producing power today. As grid electricity gets more expensive, the value of that locked-in cost only grows.

Panels versus the Solar Roof

If your priority is maximum savings and payback, Tesla Solar Panels paired with a Powerwall are the strongest choice, especially for Rocky Mountain Power customers who benefit most from self-consumption. If your priority is a premium, all-in-one roof with Class A fire rating, 166 mph wind rating, and Class 4 hail resistance, the Tesla Solar Roof is built for protection and long-term home value rather than a payback number.

FAQ

Is solar still worth it without the federal tax credit? Yes for most homeowners, because the savings driver was always the gap between your fixed solar cost and rising utility rates, which continues to widen.

What rebates are actually still available? Mike's 30 percent off plus his $2,000 rebate for everyone, and an additional $2,000 Rocky Mountain Power rebate specifically for RMP customers.

Do I need to file anything to get these rebates? No. Unlike the old federal tax credit, Mike's rebates and the RMP rebate are applied directly to your project.

See your real number today

The incentive landscape changed, but the savings case has not gone away. Run the calculator above, then call or text Mike at 385-312-0904 or get a free quote at asksolarmike.com/google.