Disclaimer: Joule Case and the author of this blog post are not tax experts. This post is for informational purposes only, and it is strongly recommended that you consult your tax advisor or attorney for personalized advice.

The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, signed into law on August 16, 2022, was a monumental leap forward for energy storage in the United States. A key provision and shift from previous incentives include expanding federal income tax credits for standalone energy storage systems not connected to solar. 

The following provides a non-detailed overview of the Energy Storage Investment Tax Credit and the process of claiming it using IRS Form 3468. Again, please note that this is NOT professional advice—merely a guide to help you collaborate with your tax professional.

What is the Energy Storage Investment Tax Credit?

The Energy Storage Investment Tax Credit, a part of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, marks a significant shift in federal incentives for energy storage. It provides a tax credit for a wide range of standalone energy storage, including systems employing lithium-ion batteries currently sold by Joule Case. This expansion is a notable deviation from prior regulations, where such tax credits were only available to storage systems directly paired with solar photovoltaic (PV) installations.

The tax credit can cover up to 30% of the cost of eligible energy storage systems. Significantly, it extends beyond just the storage equipment itself. The credit can encompass related expenses like installation costs, labor, and any additional equipment necessary for the storage system to function. This broader scope significantly enhances the financial feasibility and attractiveness of investing in standalone energy storage solutions. 

Claiming the Credit

Individuals or businesses must complete IRS Form 3468 (PDF) to claim this credit. This form is used to claim various investment credits, including the energy credit, which now encompasses the Energy Storage Investment Tax Credit​​. Maintaining proper documentation and understanding the specific requirements of the property eligible for the credit​​is essential.

To claim the Energy Storage Investment Tax Credit, follow these steps:

1. Eligibility Assessment - Ensure your energy storage system meets the eligibility criteria for the tax credit. The primary requirement for Joule Case customers is a minimum system size of 5kWh.

2. Maintain Documentation - After you have completed your purchase, make sure you keep detailed records, including:

• Purchase invoices and receipts.
• Proof of installation and operational dates. Photos of the installation and operation should be sufficient.
• Product manual or other documentation stating the system’s size and therefore credit eligibility.
• Detailed expense records (installation, equipment, labor costs). The investment tax credit is broad, so you may be able to claim anything that is needed to make your system how you want it to.

3. Complete IRS Form 3468:

• The first area you'll want to pay particular attention to is line 7 in Part I. You will likely select 'Yes' (as shown below).

• Now, add up the cost of the energy storage and other necessary components needed to make the system operational.
• Add additional expenses related to installation and labor with the cost of the system and its components to arrive at the total amount you’ll be claiming.
• Use that final amount to fill Part VI, Section I, line 17a of IRS Form 3468 titled “Energy Storage Technology Property.” Since you likely selected 'No' for Part I line 7, you'll then add 30% to line 17b.
• Then, multiple line 17a by line 17b to enter your credit amount in line 17c.
• Attach any required additional documentation.

4. Consult a Tax Professional: Given the complexities of tax credits, it's advisable to consult a tax professional for guidance and to ensure all requirements are met.

5. File Your Tax Return: Attach Form 3468 to your federal tax return.

By following these steps and maintaining proper documentation, individuals and businesses can effectively claim the Energy Storage Investment Tax Credit.

Other Considerations

Carry Forward

Remember, a tax credit is the ability to subtract a certain dollar amount from the tax amount you owe. These tax credits help reduce your tax burden and reduce your tax liability.

But what if you don’t owe any taxes? Or the amount you owe is less than the amount you are trying to claim?

Well, the Energy Storage Investment Tax Credit, like all Investment Tax Credits, is non-refundable, meaning if the credit is more than the amount you owe, you won’t be getting a refund check from the IRS. Instead, you can carry the remaining balance forward (for up to 22 years) until the reduction to your tax liability offsets the amount of the credit.

Conclusion

The Energy Storage Investment Tax Credit under the Inflation Reduction Act is a landmark change, offering significant financial incentives for energy storage projects. However, navigating the details of IRS Form 3468 and understanding the nuances of the credit are complex. Remember, this blog is not a substitute for professional tax advice. Always consult with a tax professional to ensure compliance and maximize your benefits under this new tax credit.

References:

• About Form 3428, Investment Credit (IRS.gov)
• Instructions for Form 3468 (2023) (IRS.gov)
• Supplemental Instructions for Filing Form 3468 (IRS.gov)
• IRS Form 3428 (PDF) (IRS.gov)
• The Inflation Reduction Act’s energy- and climate-related tax provisions (The Tax Advisor)
• 26 U.S. Code § 48 - Energy credit (Legal Information Institute)