The next few years are crucial for locking in waning federal tax incentives for solar, storage, and other clean energy projects via the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). Choosing the right partners for engineering, distribution, delivery, and installation could mean the difference between earning tax credits and leaving them on the table.
For projects larger than 1.5 MW, new rules set in August 2025 ended the ability to use the 5% safe harbor, where a company could prove significant costs have been incurred for the project. These larger projects must now all satisfy the “physical work test,” proving significant physical labor has begun on a site.
In order for projects to secure the investment tax credit (ITC) and have four years to complete construction, they must officially “start construction” by July 4, 2026. If they do not meet that deadline, they must place projects in service by December 31, 2027, to receive any credit.
Here are some ways to expedite your processes and meet important project deadlines.
Always consult with a tax professional on any tax credit requirement questions.
Engineering
Choosing a solar design and engineering team with deep technical knowledge is crucial for a firm project foundation. Ampacity’s specific experience with the leading solar tracker brands can help you maximize megawatts and optimize output, no matter the project footprint.
“We work with the two biggest tracker manufacturers on the planet. If you’re in a time crunch, we can process and engineer these portfolios faster than anyone else,” said Dylan Wraga, Senior VP of Business Development at Ampacity.
Kitting and distribution
Partnering with a solar equipment distributor with a high volume of on-hand inventory keeps projects moving and deadlines met. Ampacity has three warehouses across the United States distributing structural and electrical solar materials, ready to help with any challenge.
For even more streamlined field work, Ampacity also offers kitting and pre-assembly services. All materials for each tracker row are pre-assembled, boxed, and labeled with a specific row number. This speeds installation time, reduces errors by assembling in a controlled warehouse environment, and streamlines construction schedules.
Installation
There are plenty of solar installation partners out there, but not all have the relationships and expertise in single-axis trackers that Ampacity has built since 2014.
“Our team will assess your project’s specific environmental conditions, parcel shape, and topography to install the best tracking solar system possible,” Wraga said.
Clients can also rest assured that they’ll meet workforce IRA requirements through Ampacity’s own Registered Apprenticeship program.
From on-site project management to mechanical and electrical installation and commissioning, Ampacity will ensure the job gets done on time and by the book.
“Ampacity is an accelerator. We believe we can help you get more done in the calendar year than any other partner,” Wraga said. “Whether you’re in a pinch or putting together your long-term strategy, we are well-positioned to help you meet deadlines with our abundance of project services.”
If upcoming project deadlines feel intimidating, reach out to Ampacity to see how our full suite of value-added solar services can help.
