If you’re considering renewable energy or energy efficiency improvements, finding the right incentives can save you thousands of dollars. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) is your comprehensive gateway to discovering these opportunities across the United States.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about DSIRE, from basic navigation to advanced strategies for maximizing your savings in 2025’s evolving energy landscape.
What is DSIRE?
DSIRE stands for the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency. It’s the most comprehensive source of information on incentives and policies that support renewable energy and energy efficiency in the United States.
Established in 1995, DSIRE has been the go-to resource for homeowners, businesses, installers, and policymakers for nearly three decades. The database is operated by the N.C. Clean Energy Technology Center at N.C. State University and receives funding from the U.S. Department of Energy.
DSIRE’s core mission is to democratize access to clean energy by making incentive information easily accessible to everyone. In 2025’s rapidly evolving energy landscape, where new policies and programs are constantly emerging, DSIRE serves as a critical bridge between available opportunities and the people who need them.
DSIRE Overview & Key Features
DSIRE’s scope is truly impressive. The database contains information on over 2,800 active policies and incentives, covering all 50 states, U.S. territories, and federal programs. This makes it the largest and most comprehensive database of its kind.
The platform serves over 180,000 unique users each month, ranging from homeowners researching solar installations to major corporations planning renewable energy projects. This massive user base demonstrates the critical role DSIRE plays in America’s clean energy transition.
Geographic Coverage
- All 50 U.S. states
- District of Columbia
- U.S. territories including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands
- Federal programs and incentives
- Local government initiatives
- Utility company programs
Types of Incentives Covered
DSIRE tracks various incentive types, from direct cash rebates to tax credits, financing programs, and regulatory policies. This comprehensive approach ensures users can find all available opportunities in one place.
How to Use DSIRE: Complete User Guide
Navigating DSIRE effectively can mean the difference between missing out on incentives and maximizing your savings. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting the most from the database.
Step 1: Choose Your Search Method
DSIRE offers two primary ways to search for incentives:
Zip Code Search: Enter your 5-digit zip code on the homepage for location-specific results. This method automatically filters incentives available in your area.
State-by-State Browse: Click on any state in the interactive map to see all available programs for that region. This method is useful for comparing opportunities across different states.
Step 2: Understanding Search Results
Search results are organized by implementing sector:
- Federal: Nationwide programs like the federal solar tax credit
- State: Programs administered by state governments
- Local: City and county-level incentives
- Utility: Programs offered by electric and gas utilities
Step 3: Filtering and Refining Results
Use DSIRE’s filtering options to narrow down results:
- Technology Type: Solar, wind, geothermal, energy efficiency, etc.
- Incentive Type: Rebates, tax credits, loans, grants
- Sector: Residential, commercial, industrial
- Status: Active, expired, or proposed programs
Step 4: Analyzing Individual Incentives
Each incentive listing provides detailed information including:
- Eligibility requirements
- Application deadlines
- Incentive amounts or percentages
- Contact information
- Required documentation
- Program limitations or caps
Mobile vs Desktop Experience
DSIRE is optimized for both desktop and mobile use. The mobile interface maintains full functionality while providing a streamlined experience for on-the-go research. However, for detailed analysis and comparison shopping, the desktop version offers better visibility of complex data.
Types of Incentives & Policies in DSIRE
Understanding the different types of incentives available can help you develop a comprehensive strategy for reducing your clean energy costs.
Federal Incentives and Tax Credits
Federal programs provide the foundation for most renewable energy projects. The most significant is the federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which allows you to deduct 30% of solar installation costs from your federal taxes through 2032. Note: As of 2025, there are legislative proposals that could potentially end the residential solar tax credit earlier than scheduled, so it’s important to stay informed about current policy developments.
Other federal incentives include:
- Residential Clean Energy Credit for various technologies
- Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit
- Electric vehicle tax credits
- Commercial renewable energy incentives
State-Level Programs and Rebates
State programs vary dramatically. California leads with over 150 different incentives, while states like Kansas offer fewer but still valuable programs. Common state incentives include:
- Cash rebates for solar installations
- State tax credits and deductions
- Sales tax exemptions on renewable energy equipment
- Property tax exemptions for added home value
- Renewable energy certificates (RECs) programs
Local Government Incentives
Cities and counties often provide additional incentives to encourage clean energy adoption. These might include:
- Expedited permitting processes
- Reduced permit fees
- Local rebate programs
- Property tax assessments
Utility Company Programs
Many utilities offer incentives to customers who install renewable energy or improve energy efficiency. These programs include:
- Net metering policies
- Time-of-use rate structures
- Demand response programs
- Energy efficiency rebates
- Interconnection policies
Financing Options and Loan Programs
DSIRE also tracks various financing mechanisms:
- Low-interest loans for renewable energy projects
- Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing
- Power purchase agreements (PPAs)
- Lease programs
- Green bonds and other innovative financing
Technology Coverage
DSIRE covers incentives for a wide range of clean energy and efficiency technologies, reflecting the diverse landscape of available solutions.
Solar Energy (Residential and Commercial)
Solar incentives represent the largest category in DSIRE, with programs available in every state. These include:
- Photovoltaic (PV) system incentives
- Solar water heating programs
- Community solar opportunities
- Commercial solar incentives
- Solar-plus-storage programs
Wind Power Systems
Wind incentives vary by region, with stronger programs in windier states:
- Small wind turbine incentives
- Commercial wind development programs
- Wind-solar hybrid systems
- Offshore wind initiatives
Geothermal Energy
Geothermal incentives cover both electricity generation and heating/cooling applications:
- Geothermal heat pump rebates
- Ground-source heat pump programs
- Geothermal electricity generation incentives
Energy Storage Systems
Battery storage incentives are rapidly expanding as storage becomes more affordable:
- Residential energy storage systems rebates
- Commercial energy storage programs
- Grid-scale storage incentives
- Vehicle-to-grid programs
Electric Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure
Transportation electrification incentives include:
- EV purchase rebates and tax credits
- Home charging station incentives
- Public charging infrastructure programs
- Fleet electrification incentives
Energy Efficiency Measures
Efficiency incentives cover a broad range of technologies:
- HVAC system upgrades
- Insulation and weatherization
- Energy-efficient appliances
- Smart home technologies
- LED lighting programs
Who Should Use DSIRE
DSIRE serves diverse user groups, each with specific needs and use cases.
Homeowners Considering Renewable Energy
For residential users, DSIRE is invaluable for:
- Calculating potential savings from solar installations
- Finding rebates for energy-efficient appliances
- Researching electric vehicle incentives
- Discovering financing options
- Understanding net metering policies
Business Owners and Commercial Developers
Commercial users benefit from:
- Large-scale renewable energy incentives
- Commercial building efficiency programs
- Fleet electrification opportunities
- Industrial energy efficiency rebates
- Tax incentive strategies
Solar Installers and Contractors
Industry professionals use DSIRE to:
- Stay current on changing incentive programs
- Provide accurate information to customers
- Identify new market opportunities
- Understand interconnection requirements
- Track program deadlines and funding availability
Policy Researchers and Advocates
Researchers and advocates rely on DSIRE for:
- Comprehensive policy analysis
- Tracking policy trends across states
- Identifying policy gaps and opportunities
- Supporting evidence-based advocacy
- Academic research on clean energy policies
Government Officials and Planners
Public sector users utilize DSIRE to:
- Benchmark policies against other jurisdictions
- Identify best practices
- Understand federal and state program interactions
- Design complementary local programs
- Track policy effectiveness
DSIRE vs Other Resources
While many organizations provide incentive information, DSIRE stands out for several reasons.
Comparison with State Energy Office Websites
State energy offices typically focus only on their own programs, while DSIRE provides a comprehensive view including federal, local, and utility programs. DSIRE also offers standardized data presentation, making it easier to compare opportunities across states.
Advantages Over Utility Company Sites
Utility websites only show their own programs and may not be updated frequently. DSIRE aggregates information from hundreds of utilities and maintains consistent update schedules.
Integration with EnergySage and Other Platforms
DSIRE partners with platforms like EnergySage to provide integrated services. This partnership allows users to research incentives and connect with qualified installers in one streamlined process.
Unique Value Proposition
DSIRE’s unique advantages include:
- Comprehensive coverage of all incentive types
- Neutral, non-commercial perspective
- Academic rigor and accuracy
- Historical data for trend analysis
- Regular updates and maintenance
- Free access to all users
Behind DSIRE: Organization & Funding
Understanding who operates DSIRE helps establish its credibility and reliability.
NC Clean Energy Technology Center Role
The N.C. Clean Energy Technology Center at N.C. State University has operated DSIRE since 1995. The Center brings academic rigor and independence to the database, ensuring information accuracy and neutrality.
U.S. Department of Energy Funding
DSIRE receives primary funding from the U.S. Department of Energy, which ensures stable operation and maintains the database as a public resource. This federal support underscores DSIRE’s importance to national clean energy goals.
Staff Expertise and Qualifications
DSIRE’s team includes policy analysts, researchers, and clean energy experts who continuously monitor legislative and regulatory developments. This expertise ensures that information is not only current but also accurately interpreted and presented.
Data Accuracy and Update Frequency
The database is continuously updated as new programs are announced and existing programs change. The team monitors hundreds of sources including:
- State legislatures and regulatory commissions
- Federal agencies
- Utility companies
- Local governments
- Industry associations
DSIRE Insight: Premium Services
While the basic DSIRE database is free, DSIRE Insight offers premium subscription services for organizations needing more detailed analysis.
Subscription-Based Tracking Services
DSIRE Insight provides specialized tracking in four key areas:
- Distributed Solar: Net metering reforms, community solar policy, and rate design changes
- Grid Modernization: Energy storage policy and utility business model reform
- Electric Vehicles: Transportation electrification policies and infrastructure deployment
- Power Decarbonization: Clean energy targets and carbon emission policies
Legislative and Regulatory Analysis
Subscribers receive detailed analysis of policy developments, including:
- Bill tracking across all 50 state legislatures
- Regulatory proceeding summaries
- Impact analysis of proposed changes
- Timeline predictions for policy implementation
Quarterly Reports and Updates
DSIRE Insight provides comprehensive quarterly reports summarizing policy trends and developments. These reports help subscribers understand broader market dynamics and plan strategic responses.
Success Stories & Case Studies
Real-world examples demonstrate DSIRE’s practical value across different user types.
Homeowner Savings Calculations
A typical homeowner in California installing a 6kW solar system might benefit from:
- 30% federal tax credit: $5,400 savings
- Net metering: $1,200 annual savings
- Local rebate program: $1,000 upfront savings
- Property tax exemption: $300 annual savings
- Total first-year benefit: $8,900
Business Implementation Stories
A manufacturing company in North Carolina used DSIRE to identify:
- Federal accelerated depreciation benefits
- State renewable energy tax credits
- Utility demand response programs
- Local economic development incentives
The combination of incentives reduced their solar project payback period from 8 years to 4.5 years.
Policy Development Support Examples
State policymakers have used DSIRE data to:
- Design new incentive programs based on successful models in other states
- Identify gaps in existing policy frameworks
- Justify budget allocations for clean energy programs
- Track the effectiveness of implemented policies
For Arizona residents specifically, our comprehensive Arizona Solar Incentives Guide provides detailed information about state-specific programs that complement federal incentives found in DSIRE.
Tips for Maximizing DSIRE Benefits
Getting the most from DSIRE requires strategic thinking and careful planning.
Best Practices for Searching
- Start broad, then narrow: Begin with a zip code search, then use filters to refine results
- Check multiple categories: Don’t limit yourself to one technology type
- Review all implementing sectors: Federal, state, local, and utility programs can be combined
- Verify current status: Always check that programs are still active
- Read full program details: Don’t rely solely on summary information
Combining Multiple Incentives
The key to maximizing savings is incentive stacking – combining multiple programs. For example:
- Federal tax credit + state rebate + utility program
- Energy efficiency rebates + renewable energy incentives
- Purchase incentives + ongoing performance payments
Always verify that programs can be combined, as some have restrictions on stacking.
Timing Considerations
Timing can significantly impact your benefits:
- Application deadlines: Many programs have annual funding caps
- Installation deadlines: Some incentives require completion by specific dates
- Tax year planning: Coordinate tax credits with your overall tax strategy
- Utility rate changes: Net metering policies may change
Documentation Requirements
Successful incentive applications require proper documentation:
- Professional installation certificates
- Equipment specifications and warranties
- Interconnection agreements
- Proof of purchase and payment
- Performance monitoring data
Working with Qualified Contractors
Choose contractors who:
- Are familiar with local incentive programs
- Have experience with application processes
- Can provide required documentation
- Understand interconnection requirements
- Stay current on changing regulations
Future of DSIRE & Clean Energy Incentives
As we move through 2025, DSIRE continues to evolve with the changing energy landscape.
Emerging Technologies Coverage
DSIRE is expanding coverage to include:
- Advanced battery storage technologies
- Hydrogen fuel cell systems
- Smart grid and demand response technologies
- Carbon capture and storage incentives
- Microgrids and resilience programs
Policy Trend Analysis
Key trends shaping the incentive landscape include:
- Electrification focus: More programs supporting all-electric homes and businesses
- Equity initiatives: Targeted programs for low-income and disadvantaged communities
- Grid modernization: Incentives for technologies that support grid reliability
- Climate goals: Programs aligned with state and federal carbon reduction targets
Database Evolution and Improvements
DSIRE continues to improve its user experience through:
- Enhanced mobile functionality
- Improved search algorithms
- Better data visualization tools
- API access for third-party applications
- Multilingual support
2025 Energy Landscape Implications
The energy landscape in 2025 is characterized by:
- Accelerating clean energy deployment
- Increasing policy complexity
- Growing importance of energy storage
- Focus on grid resilience and reliability
- Integration of transportation electrification
DSIRE’s role becomes even more critical as navigating this complex landscape requires comprehensive, accurate, and timely information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often is DSIRE updated?
DSIRE is updated continuously as new programs are announced and existing programs change. The database team monitors hundreds of sources daily to ensure information accuracy.
Is DSIRE information reliable?
Yes, DSIRE is operated by the N.C. Clean Energy Technology Center at N.C. State University and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. However, users should always verify current program details with implementing agencies before making decisions.
Can I combine multiple incentives?
Often yes, but it depends on specific program rules. Many incentives can be “stacked,” but some have restrictions. Always check individual program requirements.
Does DSIRE cover commercial incentives?
Yes, DSIRE covers residential, commercial, and industrial incentives. Use the sector filter to find programs specific to your needs.
How do I know if an incentive is still available?
Check the program status in DSIRE, but also verify with the implementing agency. Some programs have funding caps that may be reached before official expiration dates.
Conclusion
DSIRE represents an invaluable resource in America’s clean energy transition. Whether you’re a homeowner considering solar panels, a business planning efficiency upgrades, or a policymaker designing new programs, DSIRE provides the comprehensive information needed to make informed decisions.
The database’s 30-year history, academic backing, and federal support ensure its reliability and continuity. As clean energy incentives become increasingly complex and numerous, DSIRE’s role as a central clearinghouse becomes ever more important.
By following the guidance in this comprehensive guide, you can effectively navigate DSIRE to discover and maximize the incentives available for your clean energy projects. Remember to verify current program details and work with qualified professionals to ensure successful implementation.
Start exploring DSIRE today at dsireusa.org and take the first step toward reducing your energy costs while supporting America’s clean energy future.