Community Wind Toolbox Chapter 10: Tax Incentives
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In order to be financially competitive, most wind projects need to take advantage of federal and, where available, state tax incentives. It is critical to understand the role and mechanics of tax incentives while developing a commercial-scale community wind project because these incentives can represent one-half to twothirds of the total revenue stream over the first 10 years of operation due to the Federal Production Tax Credit (PTC) and Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS) or other type of depreciation that can be applied to wind energy assets. You will need to consult a tax professional in the early stages of project planning to ensure that your financial projections are valid and accurately take into account the project’s tax burden and benefits.
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This report was prepared for the Energy Trust of Oregon by Mark Bolinger, Ryan Wiser, Tom Wind, Dan Juhl, and Robert Grace, and published in August 2004. It provides an examination of potential community wind project ownership structures in the Northwest and the types of support needed to make them viable.
The Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) is a comprehensive database of incentives for wind and other forms of renewable energy. It is a great resource for up-to-date policy information.
Click here to go to the IRS web site, where you can look up information on various tax codes, forms, and agencies to contact for tax advice.

