If you operate a facility that generates power from renewable sources and need your NAICS code, here is your answer.
Because “Renewable Energy” covers various sources, the NAICS system uses specific codes for each. The most common code for renewable energy is 221114 (Solar Electric Power Generation).
Primary Renewable Energy Codes
| Energy Source | NAICS Code | Industry Title |
| Solar | 221114 | Solar Electric Power Generation |
| Wind | 221115 | Wind Electric Power Generation |
| Hydroelectric | 221111 | Hydroelectric Power Generation |
| Geothermal | 221116 | Geothermal Electric Power Generation |
| Biomass | 221117 | Biomass Electric Power Generation |
What Does NAICS Code 221114 (Solar) Cover?
According to the official 2022 NAICS data, code 221114 covers establishments primarily engaged in operating solar electric power generation facilities. These facilities use energy from the sun to produce electric energy and provide that electricity to transmission or distribution systems.
In simple terms, this code applies to:
- Solar Farms: Large-scale installations producing electricity for the grid.
- Solar Power Plants: Facilities operating concentrated solar power or photovoltaic systems.
What Do the Other Renewable Codes Cover?
- 221115 (Wind): Operating wind turbines to drive generators that produce electricity.
- 221111 (Hydro): Using water power to drive turbines for electric energy.
- 221117 (Biomass): Using organic matter (wood, waste, alcohol fuels) to produce electricity.
- 221118 (Other): Includes tidal power and other miscellaneous renewable sources.
Does My Business Qualify for these Codes?
Your business qualifies for these “Utilities” codes if:
- You operate the facility that generates the power.
- Your primary activity is the production of electricity to be sold to the grid or distribution systems.
Your business may NOT qualify if:
- You Install Panels/Systems: If you are a contractor installing solar panels on residential or commercial buildings, use 238210 (Electrical Contractors).
- You Manufacture Equipment: If you make wind turbines, use 333611. If you manufacture solar cells or modules, use 334413 (Semiconductor and Related Device Manufacturing).
- You are a Developer: If you primarily provide engineering and design services for renewable projects without operating them, use 541330 (Engineering Services).
- You Sell Systems: Wholesalers of solar heating or power equipment use 423720.
Where Will You Need This Code?
Your NAICS code is required for several critical business functions:
SBA Loan Applications. If you are seeking financing for a renewable energy project, the SBA and private lenders use these codes to determine your eligibility for “Green” lending programs and traditional commercial loans.
Federal Contracting via SAM.gov. The federal government has significant mandates for purchasing renewable energy. To sell power or provide generation services to the government, you must be registered under the appropriate code (e.g., 221114 or 221115).
Tax Credits and Incentives. Many federal and state tax incentives (like the Investment Tax Credit – ITC) require accurate industry classification for compliance and reporting.
Business Insurance. Insurance providers use these codes to assess the unique risks associated with high-voltage equipment and weather-dependent power generation.
221114 (Solar) in the NAICS Hierarchy
Every NAICS code sits inside a structured hierarchy. Here is the breakdown for Solar (other renewable sources follow the same path until the 6-digit level):
| Level | Code | Title |
| Sector | 22 | Utilities |
| Subsector | 221 | Utilities |
| Industry Group | 2211 | Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution |
| NAICS Industry | 22111 | Electric Power Generation |
| National Industry | 221114 | Solar Electric Power Generation |
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