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Geothermal Heat Pump Tax Credit 2026: Federal 25D + State

Geothermal heat pumps qualify under federal 25D (30% of total cost, no cap, carryforward allowed). State-level geothermal programs are particularly strong in NY (NYSERDA Clean Heat $1,500/ton + $3,000 base), MA (Mass Save $4,500–$6,500), MD (Clean Energy Grant), IA (state tax credit), and IN (CenterPoint GeoSmart). Operating savings are 50–70% vs propane and 25–50% vs natural gas — making total payback 8–14 years on a $25,000–$40,000 install with full stacking.

Federal 25D Geothermal Mechanics

Closed-loop, open-loop, and pond/lake systems all qualify. Equipment, ground loop installation, and indoor unit are all includable in basis. ENERGY STAR Geothermal certification required.

Top State Geothermal Programs

NY NYSERDA Clean Heat Geothermal: $1,500/ton + $3,000 base (~$7,500 for 3-ton system). MA Mass Save Ground Source Heat Pump: $4,500–$6,500. MD Clean Energy Grant: up to $3,000. IA Geothermal Tax Credit: 5% state credit. IN CenterPoint GeoSmart: $1,500–$3,000. NJ Clean Energy Program: $4,000–$6,000.

Install Cost Breakdown

3-ton ground-source heat pump in 2026: $25,000–$40,000 depending on ground loop type (vertical bore most expensive, horizontal trench cheapest, pond/lake cheapest if applicable). Indoor unit $5,000–$8,000. Ground loop $15,000–$30,000. Labor $5,000–$8,000.

Operating Cost Savings

COP 3.5–4.5 for geothermal vs 2.5–3.5 for cold-climate ASHP. Heating cost ~$0.04–$0.07 per delivered BTU vs $0.10–$0.15 propane and $0.06–$0.10 gas. Cooling cost roughly half of conventional AC.

Frequently asked questions

Does HEEHRA cover geothermal? +
No, separately. HEEHRA covers air-source heat pumps under the $8,000 cap. Geothermal is its own track typically through state programs.
Is the 25C credit applicable to geothermal? +
No — geothermal goes under 25D, not 25C. Different form (Part I vs Part II).
How long does geothermal installation take? +
5–14 days typical. Ground loop installation 2–7 days, indoor connection 2–3 days, commissioning 1–2 days.

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