Information for Ground Source Heat Pump Technicians
Premium efficiency ground source heat pumps that meet tax credit performance standards are eligible for a Residential Energy Tax Credit only if installed or verified by a tax credit certified geothermal technician.
The equipment specifications are:
Closed loop systems
Performance rating of 3.3 COP for closed loop or 3.5 COP for direct exchange (DX) systems
Incentive amounts for ground source heat pumps are shown on the main geothermal page. The Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE) does not maintain a qualified products list for ground source heat pumps.
Water well reinjection systems or other open loop "pump and dump" systems are not eligible for the Residential Energy Tax Credit. Direct use of geothermal heat using “downhole heat exchangers” are eligible for a Residential Energy Tax Credit, but have special requirements. Please contact the appropriate staff person listed at the bottom of this page for more information.
Becoming a Tax Credit-Certified Technician for GSHP
To become a TCCT you must show proof of successful completion of the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association (IGSHPA) training, the IGSHPA certified manufacturer’s installer training program, or other training approved by ODOE. You do not have to be a current member of IGSHPA. In addition to this training requirement, see the full certification instructions.
Renewing Your Tax Credit Certified Technician Status
December is when you should renew your TCCT status in order to keep your company listed with ODOE. To renew your TCCT status, the technician must:
Complete at least 1 tax credit approved installation during the current calendar year; or
Submit a TCCT renewal application.
If you did not complete at least 1 qualifying installation, you may submit proof of having attended any geothermal HVAC-related training lasting at least 2 hours in length sometime during the current calendar year. You should meet the minimum requirements in the current year prior to renewing for the next year.
Starting a new GSHP HVAC business
If you’re starting a new HVAC business in Oregon you must obtain the necessary licenses to legally do work in Oregon. Typical licenses include:
Business license(s)
Business Wizard (Oregon Secretary of State's Corporations Division)
