You will need to file Form 5695, Residential Energy Credits when you file your tax return for year in which your residential energy property was put in service. The Residential Clean Energy Credit equals 30% of the costs of new, qualified clean energy property for your. . To claim the nonrefundable Solar Energy Federal Tax credit, you need to complete and attach IRS Form 5695 to your federal tax return. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems installed in 2020 and 2021 are eligible for a 26% tax credit. For a typical solar installation costing $25,000, that's $7,500 back in your pocket. Exiting site: Non-federal sites are not endorsed by the government or subject to. .