Massachusetts Solar Incentives & Rebates

Going Solar Is Simple With Massachusetts Solar Incentives And Rebates

Massachusetts is increasingly being recognized for its excellent solar incentives and programs, which are among the best in the country. Here's some background on why investing in solar panels in Massachusetts is an intelligent choice.

Massachusetts has one of the highest electrical rates in New England, which further drives the push toward solar energy. Residents can significantly reduce their monthly electricity costs by switching to a renewable energy source.

Massachusetts' Solar Incentives, Rebates, And Benefits

Massachusetts Renewable Portfolio Standards

RPSs are regulations that say how much of a utility company's energy must come from renewable sources by a specific deadline. That is why utility companies are eager to support a residential solar market and work with property owners. If they don't meet the deadline, they face fines. Moreover, Massachusetts requires 25% of all energy from renewables by 2030. To encourage property owners, Massachusetts has formed a line-up of solar incentives and rebates for all consumers who would join the program as a bonus and perks. Massachusetts' solar incentives program, tax credits, and solar rebates are listed below.

Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) Program

One of the most notable solar programs in Massachusetts is the Innovative Programs. This solar incentive initiative provides a fixed rate per kilowatt hour (kWh) of solar energy produced for ten years, paid by the State of Massachusetts to Eversource National Grid and its customers. The rate varies based on location and utility, ranging from 19 to 31 cents per kWh for systems under 25 kilowatts (kW). Moreover, low-income customers or those who combine battery storage with their solar panel system can avail of higher incentive rates, making solar power accessible to a broader range of customers in Massachusetts. Similar programs in other states are called Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs).

Massachusetts Net Metering Laws

Massachusetts property owners can use one of the best solar incentives through the state's excellent net metering law. Solar property owners can receive credits on their utility bills for the surplus energy they generate and send back to the grid. Despite some previous net-metering battles, this incentive is still available. Ensure you keep that chance to reduce your expenses and advocate for sustainable energy!

Massachusetts Residential Renewable Energy Income Tax Credit

Thanks to Massachusetts' impressive renewable energy income tax credit, if you decide to purchase your home solar panel system outright, you'll be eligible for an income tax credit that covers 15% of the total cost of your system, capping out at a $1,000 state tax reduction.

Any excess credit can be carried over to your income taxes for up to three years.

Massachusetts Solar Tax Exemptions

Solar property owners can benefit from two significant tax exemptions besides the income tax exemption: sales tax and property tax incentives. These tax breaks are attractive because they ensure 100% tax exemption from sales and property tax payments, which certainly add up over time.

Massachusetts Offers Sales Tax Exemption

Don't pay any sales tax on a residential solar energy system in Massachusetts! That's a savings of 6.325% as part of your solar incentives.

Massachusetts Solar Property Tax Credit

Even after their property value rises after installing a solar energy system, property owners can keep paying the exact property tax for up to 20 years.

Massachusetts Mass Solar Loan

Low-income property owners in Massachusetts can take advantage of a program that provides them with a low-interest loan to finance a PV system. This is a joint endeavor between the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) and the Department of Energy Resources (DOER), working together to promote clean energy and sustainability.

Massachusetts Solar Installation Property Tax

Installing a new solar system in your home in Massachusetts won't increase your property taxes. Adding a system could also help you build home value.

Don’t Forget About The Federal Tax Credit, Massachusetts!

The Residential Clean Energy Credit, formerly known as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), is a solar incentive that can decrease the cost of a PV solar energy system by 30%. It is crucial to understand that the Residential Clean Energy Credit applies solely to individuals who buy their solar energy system upfront, whether with a solar loan or cash purchase, and its value depends on having sufficient income for the tax credit to be significant (unless you're a tax-exempt entity eligible for a direct payment). As the year progress, this percentage will drop, so if you're considering your solar panel options, it makes sense to install a system soon!