Last night, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a budget reconciliation bill that poses significant implications for the solar industry.
While the bill still needs to clear the Senate, the version passed by the House signals a sharp turn in how clean energy tax incentives, including the Section 48E Investment Tax Credit (ITC), will be applied moving forward.
The revised language in the bill introduces a much narrower eligibility window for the 48E credit:
- Projects must begin construction within 60 days of the bill’s enactment, and
- Must be placed in service by December 31, 2028.
This marks a substantial shift from current law and earlier proposals, which stepped the ITC down over several years instead of immediately. For most projects that are in development, this new timeline poses significant challenges.
The Case for Safe Harbor
This bill threatens to pull the rug out from under the solar industry—just as it’s proving its value in relieving grid stress, lowering costs, and creating local jobs.
For developers and EPCs, this bill presents an urgent call to action for safe harbor efforts. Starting construction in time to meet the new 48E requirements is critical—and Ampacity is here to help.
At Ampacity, we’ve supported safe harbor strategies many times before—and we’re ready to do it again. Our team can help you move quickly to execute your safe harbor plans. With our large warehouse footprint, kitting and assembly services, and expertise in electrical and structural systems, we can help you move quickly today to support your success in the future.
Our Safe Harbor Strategy
Ampacity’s safe harbor strategy offers flexibility to future projects by focusing on components that are universal—not module- or project-specific. Customers can realize savings by both purchasing solar tracker materials and electrical goods from Ampacity and storing them safely and cost-effectively in Ampacity’s facilities, located in Mississippi, Kentucky, and Iowa, to serve projects nationwide.
Ampacity’s in-house engineering capabilities provide project owners and developers with a competitive edge when planning and purchasing projects in advance to maximize the value of the ITC.
By implementing their safe harbor strategy, Ampacity helps customers minimize risks associated with project or technology changes, guiding purchasing decisions toward components that will retain their value and not become barriers to other BOS selections when the projects are ready to proceed.
Our Commitment
Ampacity continues to be your forward-thinking distribution partner, offering more than just materials. We help customers overcome the biggest industry challenges—whether that’s rising demand, grid constraints, labor shortages, or evolving policy.
The House bill may have set a harmful starting point, but there’s still time to shape the outcome—and secure your projects in the process. If this bill becomes law, it will take a strong, coordinated response to protect the role of solar in America’s energy future. We’re in your corner, ready to accelerate what’s next.
Need help navigating safe harbor requirements? Contact Ampacity today—we’ll help you keep your projects on track.
