Complete Guide to Solar Energy in Massachusetts
Your complete resource for solar energy in Massachusetts. Everything you need to know about SMART incentives, net metering, tax credits, and solar installation across the Bay State.
Why Massachusetts is Perfect for Solar Energy
Exceptional Financial Incentives
Massachusetts combines 30% federal tax credits, 15% state tax credits, and SMART 3.0 performance payments for unmatched solar savings.
Highest Electricity Rates
With rates averaging 27.22¢/kWh—far above the national average—every kilowatt-hour produced delivers maximum savings.
Expanded Net Metering
Full retail rate credits for excess generation with 25kW system limits ensure your solar investment pays off faster.
Strong Legal Protections
20-year property tax exemptions and HOA protections guarantee your right to generate clean energy.
Quick Solar Facts
Explore Solar Topics
Laws & Regulations
SMART 3.0 program, property tax exemptions, HOA protections, net metering expansion, and state incentives.
Residential Solar
Complete guide for Massachusetts homeowners, system sizing, roof requirements, and climate considerations.
Costs & Savings
2025 pricing, cinstallation osts, tax credit calculations, SMART payments, and long-term savings analysis.
Financing Options
Solar loans, cash purchases, PACE financing, home equity options, and state-backed programs.
Installation Guide
Finding licensed installers, SMART applications, permitting process, and utility interconnection steps.
Solar 101
Solar technology basics, panel types, inverter options, battery storage, and system maintenance.
Community Solar
Shared solar subscriptions, SMART community allocations, and options for renters and condo owners.
Solar Calculator
Estimate your solar savings and system requirements.
Quick Solar Savings Calculator
Important 2025 Updates
SMART 3.0 Program Launch
Massachusetts launched Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target 3.0 in October 2025 with 900MW of new capacity. Performance-based incentives provide payments for 10 years with applications processed first-come, first-served.
Learn about SMART 3.0 →Net Metering Expansion
February 2025 expansion increased residential system limits to 25kW while maintaining full retail rate credits. Homeowners now receive maximum value for excess solar generation sent to the grid.
Understand Net Metering →Massachusetts Solar Laws & Regulations
Understanding the legal framework that supports solar energy in Massachusetts
Property Tax Exemption
20-year exemption for solar systems up to 25kW under MGL Chapter 59, Section 5. Solar equipment adds no property tax burden.
Learn More →HOA Solar Rights
Chapter 40A protects homeowners from unreasonable solar restrictions. HOAs cannot prohibit installations or impose excessive requirements.
Learn More →SMART Program
Performance-based incentives through Eversource, National Grid, and Unitil. Fixed per-kWh payments for 10 years with adders for storage and qualifying projects.
Learn More →