179D Energy-Efficient Commercial Buildings Tax Deduction
BlueWater Engineering combines MEP engineering expertise with 179D tax deduction studies, helping building owners, developers, and design firms claim deductions for qualifying energy-efficient systems — backed by the same engineering rigor we bring to every permit set we stamp.
What is 179D?
The Section 179D deduction allows owners of commercial buildings — and, in some cases, the designers of government-owned buildings — to claim a tax deduction for installing energy-efficient HVAC, lighting, and building envelope systems. It also applies to qualifying residential buildings four stories or higher.
Who this is for?
Commercial building owners who've recently upgraded HVAC, lighting, or envelope systems - Developers completing new energy-efficient construction - Architects and engineers who designed qualifying systems for government-owned buildings - CPAs and tax professionals looking for an engineering partner to support a client's 179D claim with a defensible, audit-ready study #
What we deliver
Site inspection and energy system documentation - Energy modeling to verify the building meets the applicable efficiency standard - IRS-compliant certification report, signed by a licensed PE - Direct coordination with your CPA or tax preparer - Support in the event of an IRS inquiry or audit.
Why an engineering firm (not just a tax preparer) for this 179D?
Certification requires a licensed engineer to model and certify the building's energy performance — it isn't something a CPA can complete alone. Because BlueWater already designs MEP systems day to day, we understand the mechanical and electrical detail behind the numbers, not just the tax code around them.
Get started
Email info@bluewatereng.us with your building's address, square footage, and a summary of the systems installed or upgraded — we'll let you know if it looks like a strong candidate for a 179D study.