Geothermal Heat Pump Tax Credits Approved by Congress in DC Metropolitan Area

In August 2022, the federal income tax credit for geothermal heat pump installations was extended through 2034. Geothermal equipment that uses stored energy from the ground for heating and cooling and that meets ENERGY STAR requirements at the time of installation is eligible for the tax credit. The credit has no limit and there’s no limitation on the number of times the credit can be claimed.

Geothermal Renewable Energy Credits 

Average Maryland homes with geothermal systems installed in 2023 generate $3,600 per year.

Maryland Geothermal Rebates 

EmPOWER Maryland provides up to $3,000 per geothermal unit. For example:

The average cost of one 4-ton geothermal equipment and drilling is – $37,000

30% federal income tax credit – $11,100

EmPOWER rebate – $3,000

Maryland Geothermal Rebate – $3,000

Total cost after tax incentive and rebates – $19,900   

What’s eligible?

Geothermal equipment that uses stored energy from the ground for heating and cooling AND that meets ENERGY STAR requirements at the time of installation is eligible for the tax credit. Covered expenditures include labor for onsite preparation, assembly, or original system installation and for piping or wiring to connect a system to the home.

What’s Not

The credit can’t be claimed for spending on equipment used solely for hot tub or pool conditioning, nor on previously used equipment. Rental home installations also cannot be claimed. As of November 2013, electric strip heat and ductwork distribution systems are no longer included in the tax circulation.

How to Claim the Credit

Use IRS Form 5695 to claim the Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit, and there’s no limit on the credit amount. The tax credit can be used to offset both regular income taxes and alternative minimum taxes (AMT). If the federal tax credit exceeds tax liability, the excess amount may be carried forward into future years. Spending on geothermal heat pump property adds to your home’s cost basis, but also must be reduced by the amount of the tax credit received.

GEO—the Geothermal Exchange Organization—is a non-profit 501(c)(6) trade association representing the interests of all businesses involved in the geothermal heat pump industry across the United States. GEO provides outreach to the industry, public and government about the economic, national security, and environmental benefits of geothermal heat pump systems for residential, institutional and commercial applications. For more information, visit www.geoexchange.org. Phone: (888) 255-4436. Email: GEO@geoexchange.org.