As the end of 2025 approaches, residential solar installers are seeing a rapid uptick in demand. Homeowners are racing to take advantage of the 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (RCEC) before it expires. This credit has been a major factor in making solar energy more affordable, and its pending sunset is creating both opportunities and logistical challenges for installers. Here’s how to prepare your business for the coming surge in installations and ensure you’re ready to meet the moment.
Understanding the Surge in Solar Installations
The RCEC allows homeowners to claim 30% of their solar installation costs as a federal tax credit. However, this incentive is set to expire at the end of 2025 unless Congress takes further action (Solar Energy Industries Association [SEIA], 2025). As a result, many solar companies are reporting a spike in customer interest and booking activity. According to SEIA’s Q2 2025 Solar Market Insight Report, installations have increased significantly in anticipation of the credit’s expiration.
This surge in solar installations demand will likely continue accelerating throughout 2025, especially during the second half of the year. Installers should expect high project volume and limited availability from suppliers and permitting offices.
Getting Ready for the Rush: Solar Installer Staffing & Scheduling
To avoid operational bottlenecks, businesses should plan ahead with adequate staffing and efficient scheduling.
Expand Your Workforce
Hiring temporary installers, subcontractors, or seasonal office staff can help manage the workload. Companies are also adding project managers and customer service representatives to handle increased client communication (GreenLancer, 2025).
Extend Your Working Hours
Adding weekend or evening shifts can provide flexibility and ensure projects are completed on time. If extended shifts are not feasible, focus on maximizing productivity during standard business hours.
Optimize Scheduling Systems
Use project management tools to track availability, monitor deadlines, and prioritize projects based on complexity and install time. This approach ensures no time is wasted and resources are used effectively.
Streamlining Operations and Procurement
A surge in solar installations will put pressure on your operations and supply chain. Advance planning and streamlined logistics will be critical.
Order Materials Early
Global supply chain delays are still affecting the solar industry, especially for panels and inverters. Ordering materials in advance and confirming delivery schedules with suppliers can prevent project delays (Barrons, 2025).
Speed Up Permitting
Permitting offices may become overwhelmed as applications spike. Establishing relationships with local permitting officials or working with permit expediters can reduce red tape. In some jurisdictions, digital permitting platforms may also accelerate the process (GreenLancer, 2025).
Standardize Installation Processes
Efficient installations depend on clear protocols and well-trained teams. Review and refine your installation procedures and ensure tools and parts are organized and available onsite.
Financial Strategies: Helping Customers Afford Solar
Cost is often the biggest concern for homeowners considering solar. As the tax credit nears expiration, customers may need more support understanding their financial options.
Offer Flexible Financing
Partner with lenders to offer low-interest loans, Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), or in-house financing options. This can make solar more accessible and reduce hesitation due to upfront costs (Kiplinger, 2025).
Promote Leasing Options
Leasing provides another pathway for customers wary of ownership. Lease-to-own or third-party ownership models can help broaden your customer base.
Educate on Long-Term Savings
Help customers understand how solar reduces electricity bills and improves home value. Emphasize that the federal credit and energy bill savings together make solar a smart long-term investment.
Diversify Your Offerings
Don’t rely solely on residential solar installations. As market conditions shift post-2025, expanding your services will improve your company’s resilience.
Target Commercial Projects
Unlike residential, the commercial Investment Tax Credit (ITC) will continue. Commercial installations can offer higher revenue per project and open new business-to-business partnerships (SEIA, 2025).
Add Battery Storage
Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are in growing demand as customers seek energy independence. Including storage solutions with your solar packages increases value and customer satisfaction.
Stay Informed: Monitor Industry Changes
The renewable energy sector is constantly evolving. Staying informed is essential for maintaining a competitive advantage.
Join Industry Organizations
Groups like SEIA offer policy updates, data insights, and training that can help you stay ahead of changes. Membership also provides access to advocacy tools and networking (SEIA, 2025).
Engage in Ongoing Training
Invest in continued education through manufacturer certifications, webinars, and trade events. Keeping your team informed about the latest equipment, safety codes, and software tools ensures high-quality service.
As the federal solar tax credit nears its end, residential solar companies must prepare for an intense period of activity. By hiring and scheduling strategically, streamlining procurement, offering financing, and diversifying into storage or commercial solar, installers can thrive during the surge. Looking beyond 2025, staying informed and adaptable will position your business for long-term growth. With careful planning and execution, this tax credit deadline can become your company’s biggest opportunity yet.
References
GreenLancer. (2025). How the expiring tax credit will affect solar installations. https://www.greenlancer.com/post/solar-tax-credit-ending
Kiplinger. (2025). Last chance to save on solar. https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/tax-law/homeowners-rush-to-install-solar-panels
Barrons (2025). Enphase Stock Plunges 15% After Earnings. Why Solar Investors Are Worried. https://www.barrons.com/articles/enphase-stock-price-earnings-b12f8cbb
NY1. (2025). Solar companies brace for impact of tax credit expiration. https://ny1.com/nyc/all-boroughs/morning-briefing/2025/07/29/morning-briefing-in-central-new-york–july-29
Solar Energy Industries Association. (2025). Solar market insight report Q2 2025. https://www.seia.org/research-resources/solar-market-insight-report-q2-2025