The Future of Solar Is Made in America
Let’s get one thing straight: the race to electrify America is on — and the winners will be the ones who understand the rules, move fast, and bet on the right supply chain. With the Inflation Reduction Act, the federal government threw down a challenge: if you want the maximum tax credit for your solar system, you better be buying American. But here’s the kicker most people miss: Homeowners don’t qualify — yet.
Let’s break it down like a quota-crushing sales call, because this isn’t just policy — it’s profitability.
What the Heck Is “Domestic Content”?
Simple: if your solar gear — panels, inverters, steel, racking — is manufactured in the U.S., your project might qualify for a 10% bonus on top of the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC).
✔ 100% of steel and iron: U.S.-made
✔ ~40% of manufactured components: Also U.S.-made
✔ Verification and documentation: Required (don’t cut corners)
If you meet these, your commercial solar project could earn an ITC of 40–50% depending on other qualifiers like prevailing wage and energy community location.
The Catch: Homeowners Can’t Claim It
Right now, individual homeowners don’t qualify for the Domestic Content Bonus.
Let me repeat that like a closing objection: “Unless you’re financing your residential system through a third-party entity — like a PPA or lease — the bonus doesn’t apply.” That’s per the IRS and confirmed by industry pros at Solar Power World.
But don’t get too comfortable — this could change. If policy shifts make domestic content mandatory for the full ITC, homeowners will need to act fast or settle for less. And guess who will be left behind? The ones who waited.
Why This Matters for NWES Clients
At Northwest Electric and Solar, we don’t play catch-up — we lead.
For our commercial clients
We already offer domestic-content-qualified systems. You get maximum incentives and support American jobs. Win-win.
For our residential clients
We’re watching the horizon. If (or when) domestic content becomes a requirement for full ITC, you’ll already be talking to the team that saw it coming.
For everyone:
We’re building relationships with U.S. suppliers and vetting every part — not just to meet a spec sheet, but to future-proof your investment.
Real Talk: Betting on China Is Risky
Relying on a global supply chain that breaks every time a ship gets stuck in a canal or a policy shifts in Southeast Asia? That’s not strategy — it’s negligence. The solar supply chain is under pressure. Tariffs are rising. Lead times are stretching. Global friction is growing. You want a system that qualifies, shows up on time, and delivers the returns you were promised?
Buy American. Or at least work with a company that gives a damn enough to help you make the smart call.
Let’s Make It Simple
This isn’t just about patriotism. It’s about performance, incentives, and peace of mind.
- Going solar? Ask about U.S.-made gear.
- Running a business? We’ll help you get that 10% bump.
- Thinking long-term? Let’s build your energy system like it’s supposed to last 30 years — because it will.
👉 NWES is your partner for solar that’s smart, strategic, and ready for whatever comes next.
📞 Reach out today — before policy shifts leave you behind.
