America is in the midst of a solar installation stampede as a key federal incentive approaches its end. “There’s a run on solar panels” right now, reports The Cool Down, as savvy homeowners rush to lock in the generous 30% tax credit that vanishes after December thecooldown.com. The credit – officially the Residential Clean Energy Credit – has been a game-changer for affordability, effectively giving thousands of dollars back to anyone installing solar on their home. But a sudden policy change in Washington is sunsetting the incentive years early. Now, with the clock ticking, installers say demand has gone through the roof. “A lot of people have been telling me, ‘I wish I would have done this five years ago’ ... turning into ‘how quick can you do it?’ It’s a lot happening very fast,” said Adam Phelps of Absolute Solar in Lansing, Michigan thecooldown.com. His small solar business saw a 200%+ surge in inquiries since July, when a budget bill was passed that will end the credit on Dec. 31 thecooldown.com.