10 Tax Incentives for Businesses That are Lowering their Carbon Footprint

In an era where environmental conservation is crucial, businesses that lower their carbon footprint are not only seen as responsible but also profit from various tax incentives. These incentives have been designed to promote sustainable practices and cut down on carbon. 

From renewable energy credits to electric vehicle investments, such tax breaks offer a wide range of possibilities for businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact right away.

Who Can Benefit From Green Tax Incentives?

For the most part, as long as you’re a sole proprietor or some other business entity, you can benefit from green tax incentives. With that said, some tax incentives are only available to business entities, not sole proprietors. These entities include LLCs, S Corps, and more.

If you’re interested in becoming a business entity for these tax benefits, it’s essential to know that becoming an LLC is the easiest option. You can use sites like Form Pros to generate a personalized LLC agreement, which you can then use to protect your business’s status.

10 Tax Incentives for Businesses Looking to Go Green

Businesses that are looking to switch to more eco-friendly initiatives will benefit from several tax credits. Here are 10 tax incentives for businesses that want to implement greener strategies.

1. Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

As a business owner, you can take advantage of the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) if you invest in solar energy. For example, this incentive lets you receive credits on up to 30% of your overall investment expenses. However, this is only available to businesses operated out of the home. 

2. Business Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

Another tax incentive to consider is the Business Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC). A business looking to invest in renewable energies like wind or solar power can benefit from this credit. The base credit is 6% to 30%, depending on project status and labor factors.

3. Electric Vehicle Charging Station Credits

If your company installs electric vehicle charging stations, you may qualify for a federal tax credit. The credit ranges from 30% of your eligible costs, making it beneficial for encouraging eco-friendly transportation. It also makes it easier for your business to switch to electric cars.

4. Small Business Energy Efficiency Grant Program

There are many grant programs that support small businesses aiming to improve their energy efficiency or renewable energy systems. Funding varies by state and can offer significant savings for businesses. The most popular grants are issued by the Department of Agriculture. 

5. Qualified Plug-in Electric Motor Vehicle Tax Credit

By purchasing plug-in electric vehicles for your business fleet, you might be eligible for a tax credit of up to $7,500 per vehicle. It’s an excellent way to make sustainable transportation choices while saving money on taxes. To qualify, you have to primarily use the vehicle in the US. 

6. Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs)

Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) allow businesses producing solar power to generate income by selling excess power generated back into the grid system. These credits are valuable tools in offsetting installation and ongoing maintenance costs. Plus, you’re helping out the grid. 

7. Advanced Biofuel Payment Program

The United States Department of Agriculture provides this payment program as a form of financial assistance for biofuel producers that use sustainable biomass feedstocks instead of traditional fossil fuels. Matching payments are $1 for each $1 per dry ton, up to $20 per dry ton.

8. Corporate Income Tax Deduction

Businesses investing in energy-efficient technologies can potentially receive a few corporate income tax deductions. This incentive encourages companies to adopt green technologies, ultimately reducing their carbon footprints. It also encourages renewable fuel-refining tech.

9. Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Tax Credit

To help encourage the use of alternative fuels, businesses that invest in fueling infrastructure for fuels such as compressed natural gas or biodiesel can receive significant tax benefits. Companies that qualify can receive a tax credit of up to $1,000.

10. Carbon Tax Credits

Carbon credits are issued by the American government to create monetary incentives for companies to reduce their carbon emissions. The lower your carbon emissions, the higher amount of carbon tax credits you receive. These credits are based on a cap-and-trade model. 

In Conclusion… 

Now that you’re aware of the numerous tax incentives available for businesses actively lowering their carbon, it’s time to take action. Invest in eco-friendly technologies, explore renewable energy options, and make conscious decisions to improve your business’ sustainability.