Montgomery County has been promoting solar co-ops and group buying since 2015 and while we have gone through many different names for the program, now known as Switch Together, the main goal has always been to help residents go solar at a discounted rate. We have also been committed to making sure people understand the process of going solar which includes informational sessions that describe the tax credit, known to most as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Since the ITC was enacted in 2006, it has provided homeowners with a credit toward their federal tax bill worth 30% of their full solar installation cost. But that is all changing.

A draft bill in the House Ways and Means Committee would terminate Section 25D of the U.S. Tax Code, the residential solar tax credit, at the end of 2025. This means that the 30% tax credit will only be available for installations completed by December 31, 2025.

Not to put any undue pressure on you, BUT if you would like to not only get that 30% tax credit but also a solar array at a 25% market discount, you need to sign up for the Switch Together program by June 4, 2025.

By registering for Switch Together, you'll receive a free installation proposal from pre-qualified installers. This proposal is customized to your home and will help you make an informed decision. You will also receive a personal recommendation immediately upon registering.

Just a reminder that Switch Together uses the power of group buying to secure a competitive price for your solar installation through a reverse auction process. The current program is expected to save the average household $6,201 on a typical-sized solar installation and, the 30% federal tax credit can further reduce your costs, making solar energy more accessible than ever before. But this rate is only available until June 4, 2025.

We will be promoting a late summer Switch Together program, but the rates will not be the same.

Join us for a Happy Hour next Tuesday on  June 3, 2025 at The Creek Lodge – Bar and Grill, 5566 Norbeck Rd Rockville, MD 20853 from 6:30 – 8:30 PM. This is you hance to connect with DMV solar homeowners, community partners, and the teams from Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection, Solar United Neighbors and iChoosr as we celebrate Switch Together in the Capital Area.

Whether you’re a long-time solar owner, just signed your solar contract, or are still considering going solar, we are excited to celebrate with you! Enjoy complimentary refreshments while sharing your experiences, learning from others, and engaging with other solar supporters. Whether you’re looking to swap stories or simply unwind with like-minded folks, this event is the perfect opportunity to strengthen our solar community. We look forward to seeing you there!

The City of Takoma Park is hosting an event called Go Solar, TkPk! which will take place on Thursday, June 26, 2025, from 7:00 – 9:00 pm at their Community Center, 7500 Maple Ave, Takoma Park and the event will also be streamed online. This event is for anyone (not just Takoma Park residents) interested in, thinking about, or planning for solar and includes information relevant for both renters and homeowners of all income brackets. Come learn about solar co-ops, community solar, RECs, tax incentives, & more.

If you would like to reduce your monthly utility bills and are concerned about climate and health, it’s time to start planning an all-electric home update. Better indoor air quality, home comfort, and carbon-free living are finally within reach, thanks to the IRA savings calculator and Electrify MC can help get you even closer.

Electrify MC is a pilot project created to help residents transition from fossil fuels (oil, gas, and propane) in their homes. Elysian Energy, the competitively chosen contractor, will provide outreach and technical support about this project and staff the Help Desk, perform Home Performance with ENERGY STAR audits, provide recommendations for electrification add-ons, and do the direct installations using the financial incentives available through Electrify MC.

Sign up today and you will receive a phone call and email from the Electrify MC team to talk you through the process.

And check out our very own County Executive, Marc Elrich, as he talks about the induction stove he has in his home.