MAXIMIZE the 179D Tax Deduction

Energy-Efficient Tax Savings for Commercial Buildings in Georgia

TaxTaker works for commercial building owners and designers in Georgia to save money through energy-efficient improvements.

About 179D Program

Section 179D offers lucrative tax deductions for businesses investing in energy-efficient improvements in commercial buildings in Georgia. Whether you're renovating your existing structure or constructing a new one, there's a potential to claim up $5+ per square foot. And with TaxTaker by your side, every step is simplified.

What Type of Buildings Qualify?

Commercial
Multi-Family
Industrial, Office
Parking Garages
Schools
Churches
Hospitals
Big Box Retail
Hotels

HOW THE 179D TAX DEDUCTION HELPS YOU SAVE

The Benefits of the 179D Tax Deduction in Georgia

Reduce Your Tax Liability
By claiming the 179D deduction, commercial building owners in Georgia can reduce their taxable income significantly, freeing up capital that can be reinvested in your business or used for future projects.
Increase Energy Efficiency
Investing in energy-efficient improvements not only lowers operational costs but also qualifies your building for valuable tax deductions under 179D, creating long-term savings and sustainability.
Maximize Profitability
Through strategic energy-efficient upgrades, you can increase your building’s profitability. The 179D deduction enables you to reduce initial project costs while boosting your overall return on investment.

Who in Georgia Can Benefit from the 179D Deduction?

Building Owners

Building owners in Georgia who make energy-efficient improvements to their properties can unlock substantial tax savings through the 179D deduction. Whether you own a small office building, a retail space, or a large industrial complex, this tax incentive allows you to reduce your tax burden by implementing environmentally sustainable upgrades. The 179D deduction rewards you for making energy-saving changes such as upgrading to energy-efficient lighting systems, improving HVAC systems for optimized heating and cooling, or installing high-performance insulation that reduces overall energy consumption.

For building owners, the 179D deduction offers a powerful way to recoup a portion of the capital investment required for these upgrades. By qualifying for up to $5.00 per square foot in deductions, owners can realize immediate and long-term cost savings, both in terms of reduced energy bills and tax savings. Additionally, energy-efficient buildings can enhance property values and tenant satisfaction, making them more attractive to environmentally conscious businesses or organizations.

Architects, Engineers, and Designers

Architects and engineers in Georgia play a crucial role in the design and construction of energy-efficient buildings, and they too can benefit from the 179D tax deduction. While traditionally the deduction has been claimed by building owners, the 179D deduction also provides unique opportunities for architects, engineers, and contractors working on government-owned properties. When these professionals design energy-efficient features—such as advanced lighting systems, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and building envelopes for government-owned or public-use buildings—they are eligible to claim this deduction for their contributions to reducing energy consumption.

The 179D deduction is a key incentive for architects and engineers looking to promote sustainable design practices. It not only provides financial benefits but also supports your reputation as a leader in green building. Whether you're designing new government buildings or retrofitting existing ones, the 179D deduction offers a chance to claim up to $1.80 per square foot for energy-efficient design. This makes it an attractive incentive for firms looking to increase their project margins while contributing to sustainable development goals.

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What Building Improvements are Eligible under 179D?

Building Envelope
Enhancements to insulation, roofing, windows, and doors.
HVAC Systems
Opting for high-efficiency heating, ventilation, and cooling systems.
Interior Lighting
Installing LED lighting, smart lighting controls, and daylight sensors.
Solar Integration
Harnessing solar power or geothermal systems with cutting-edge technologies.
Hot Water Systems
Efficient water heaters reduce energy usage and can qualify for 179D.
Smart Energy Systems
Automated energy controls optimize usage for energy-efficiency deductions.

Maximizing Your 179D Deduction with Georgia-Specific Opportunities

State-Specific 179D Eligibility and Incentives in Georgia

In addition to the federal 179D tax deduction, each state offers unique energy-efficiency requirements and local incentives that can further enhance your tax savings. Understanding these state-specific eligibility factors and taking advantage of additional incentives will ensure you maximize your return on energy-efficient improvements.

Georgia and Local Energy-Efficiency Incentives

To further support sustainability goals, Georgia provides various state and local incentives for businesses and residents to adopt energy-efficient practices. These programs offer financial incentives and tax benefits that make green energy solutions more affordable and accessible, helping the state reduce overall energy consumption and carbon emissions.

  1. City of Atlanta - Incentivized Green Developments: The City of Atlanta encourages the development of sustainable buildings through various incentives, including tax breaks and expedited permitting processes. These incentives are offered to developers who incorporate energy-efficient designs and renewable energy systems into their projects, reducing the overall environmental impact of new constructions. [1]
  2. Georgia Power - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program: Georgia Power offers a Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program to help businesses reduce their energy usage through upgrades like efficient lighting, HVAC systems, and building insulation. The program provides financial rebates for businesses that implement these energy-saving improvements, making it easier to reduce operating costs while also contributing to sustainability efforts. [2]
  3. Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC): The Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC) is a federal incentive that rewards businesses and individuals for generating electricity from renewable sources like wind, solar, and biomass. This program is aimed at encouraging the growth of renewable energy infrastructure, with long-term benefits for energy independence and environmental sustainability. [3]
  4. Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit: This tax credit incentivizes the installation of refueling infrastructure for alternative fuel vehicles, such as electric car charging stations or natural gas refueling stations. By supporting the expansion of clean transportation options, this program helps reduce emissions from traditional gasoline-powered vehicles and encourages the adoption of greener transportation alternatives. [4]

City-Specific Green Building Requirements in Georgia

Georgia continues to advance its green building initiatives, with cities and state authorities implementing regulations that promote sustainability and energy efficiency. These measures are designed to reduce the environmental impact of construction, lower energy consumption, and ensure a healthier future for communities across the state.

Building Energy Code

Georgia’s Building Energy Code sets forth mandatory energy efficiency standards for new buildings and major renovations to ensure that they are built with sustainability in mind. The code covers a range of energy-saving measures, including insulation, HVAC systems, and lighting, to help reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.

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Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Construction Standards for Public Buildings

This standard requires that all newly constructed public buildings in Georgia adhere to specific energy efficiency and sustainable construction practices. These regulations are designed to reduce energy consumption, improve water efficiency, and promote the use of eco-friendly materials in public infrastructure.

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City of Atlanta - Sustainable Development Design Standards

Atlanta’s Sustainable Development Design Standards aim to encourage developers to adopt green building practices, from energy efficiency to water conservation and sustainable material use. These standards apply to both public and private projects and help foster a more eco-conscious approach to urban development in the city.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Talk to an expert. No hard sell, ever. We only want to work with you if it's a fit.
Why TaxTaker?

Our specialized accounting and engineering teams have been securing these tax incentives for over a decade. Our highly specialized experience means your business is positioned for the maximum amount of benefit, with the confidence that you've got an accurate and complete deliverable every time. So far we have completed thousands of studies and saved our clients more than $100 million.

We also respect and want you to keep your existing accountant and bookkeeping relationships. We simply cover specific portions of the federal tax code with the finest precision so your existing teams are well supported and you spend your time doing what you do best: building your company - while getting lots of money back every year!

Has my CPA already taken these energy efficiency incentives for me?

It is possible that your CPA has taken other deductions but not necessarily the 179D Tax Deduction. Incentives like 179D and 45L require an in person site visit from an engineer that most CPA’s are not qualified to perform.

Are the energy incentives in the Inflation Reduction Act legit?  

Yes, the energy incentives in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) are legitimate and have been designed to promote investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and the transition to a cleaner energy economy.  

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) introduced several significant updates to key tax incentives, including the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), Section 179D for energy-efficient commercial buildings, Section 30C for alternative fuel vehicle refueling property, and Section 45L for residential energy-efficient property.

When's the best time to see if I'm eligible for these energy incentives?

The best time to evaluate energy incentives like the 179D deduction, 45L tax credit, and the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is right at the beginning of your project planning phase. Doing this early allows you to design your project to meet specific requirements, ensuring you qualify for maximum benefits and can plan your budget effectively. It also helps you integrate energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy systems from the start, rather than retrofitting later, and gives you ample time to gather necessary documentation for compliance.

What are TaxTaker’s fees?

Working with TaxTaker is risk free. TaxTaker collects a success fee only if you qualify for a tax credit.

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