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Section 179D Commercial Building Efficiency Deduction

Grantya researchSee programDeadline: Lookback (2006–2024): permanent | New construction BOC: 2026-06-30
TWO TRACKS — (1) NEW PROJECTS: URGENT — TERMINATES JUNE 30, 2026 under OBBBA for property the construction of which begins after that date. 2026 deduction values (IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32): $0.59–$1.19/sq ft base; $2.97–$5.94/sq ft with prevailing wage + apprenticeship. Eligible improvements: lighting, HVAC, building envelope achieving ≥25% energy savings vs. ASHRAE 90.1 reference. (2) LOOKBACK — UNAFFECTED BY OBBBA: Projects completed 2006–2024 may have unclaimed deductions recoverable through a catch-up study (Form 7205). The lookback opportunity is the highest near-term value driver — most building owners do not realize they can still claim it. Designers (architects, engineers) of government/nonprofit buildings can claim via allocation letter.

Program details

Full Name
Section 179D Energy Efficient Commercial Buildings Deduction
Type
federal
Client Type
commercial
Project Types
led, hvac, solar, general, lighting, efficiency
Eligibility
NEW PROJECTS: construction must BEGIN before July 1, 2026 to qualify | LOOKBACK: 2006–2024 already-completed projects remain claimable (no OBBBA impact) | Commercial building owners or lessees | Building must achieve ≥25% energy reduction vs. ASHRAE 90.1 reference | Full deduction ($5.94/sqft) requires prevailing wage + apprenticeship compliance | Eligible improvements: interior lighting, HVAC/hot water, building envelope (insulation, windows, roofing) | Designers of government-owned and tax-exempt buildings can claim via allocation letter from building owner
Status
open
Deadline
Lookback (2006–2024): permanent | New construction BOC: 2026-06-30
Stackable With
federal_itc_solar, section_48e, comed_smart_ideas_commercial, comed_hvac_rebates, comed_lighting, il_cpace, nicor_gas_commercial
Notes
TWO-TRACK STATUS — (1) LOOKBACK 2006–2024: permanent, unaffected by OBBBA, highest near-term value capture, IRS Form 7205. (2) NEW CONSTRUCTION: OBBBA terminated 179D for property the construction of which BEGINS after Jun 30, 2026. Lead with the lookback opportunity in client conversations.
Source: Grantya research. Always confirm current terms on the official program page.

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