The Clean Energy Tax Credits are Threatened

The clean energy revolution is well underway, and union electricians have been at the heart of it—especially in the residential and commercial solar industry in Washington State. At the center of this transformation is a powerful federal policy that has helped drive solar adoption across the country: the Investment Tax Credit (ITC).

Since its introduction in 2006, the ITC has been a cornerstone of U.S. clean energy policy. It allows homeowners to deduct a significant percentage of their solar installation costs from their federal taxes. This incentive has helped spark millions of rooftop installations and supported tens of thousands of good-paying, union solar jobs.

But now, that progress is under threat.

What’s Happening with the Solar Investment Tax Credit?

Recent political shifts and budget negotiations in Congress have placed clean energy tax credits, including the ITC, at risk. Some lawmakers are proposing cuts or changes to the credit as part of broader efforts to trim federal spending or reshape energy priorities. If these proposals succeed, the ITC could be reduced—or even eliminated—far sooner than planned.

For residential solar installers, especially those in Local Electrical Unions, this is more than a policy change—it’s a potential economic shock. 

What’s at Stake for Union Solar Workers?

Union labor has been instrumental in ensuring solar installations are done safely, efficiently, and with the dignity that only organized labor can provide. The ITC has played a huge role in making that possible by:

• Driving Demand: Lower costs for homeowners mean more solar projects, more demand for skilled labor, and more job opportunities.
• Stabilizing the Industry: Long-term tax credits create predictability, allowing companies to plan for growth, train apprentices, and invest in local hiring.
• Supporting Workforce Standards: The ITC, especially in its updated form under the Inflation Reduction Act, has created incentives for using prevailing wages and apprenticeships—helping ensure union labor gets prioritized.

Without the ITC, many homeowners may hesitate to go solar, shrinking the pipeline of residential projects. Fewer projects mean fewer jobs, less training, and a risk of wage compression as non-union outfits undercut prices.

The Bigger Picture: Climate, Jobs, and Justice

The potential rollback of the ITC isn’t just an economic issue—it’s a setback for climate action and energy justice. Rooftop solar helps lower emissions, reduce grid strain, and empower communities to take control of their energy bills.

Union workers are making this possible every day by installing panels, educating homeowners, and setting the standard for excellence in clean energy. Threatening the ITC threatens all of that progress.

What You Can Do: Take Control of Your Power

Now is the time to stand up for solar, for union jobs, and for our planet. Here’s how you can take action:

1. Contact Your Representatives: Tell Congress to protect and expand the Investment Tax Credit. Let them know that clean energy jobs matter.
2. Support Local Union Solar Companies: If you’re considering solar, choose a NECA contractor, like Artisan Electric, who uses Local 46 IBEW union electricians and prioritize fair wages.
3. Educate Your Community: Share the importance of the ITC and union labor with your neighbors, friends, and family. Earn some money in the process through Artisan Electric’s Referral program.
4. Get Involved: Whether through your union, local advocacy groups, or environmental organizations, your voice matters. Stand Up For Solar with WASEIA.

Together, we can protect the gains we’ve made and keep building a clean energy future that works for everyone. Let’s not just install solar panels—let’s install power in the hands of the people.

Take control of your power—support the ITC, support union labor, and support a brighter, cleaner future for all.

About Artisan Electric