Massachusetts Solar & Battery Incentives
The federal 30% solar credit was repealed for systems placed in service after 31 December 2025. What remains in Massachusetts is the SMART programme, ConnectedSolutions battery payments, net metering, and the state's own 15% credit up to $1,000. See how SMART pays and what ConnectedSolutions is worth.
Example: 8kW Solar + Battery System
Through December 31, 2025 the federal 25D credit took a further $9,600 off this example, bringing it to about $13,400. That credit no longer applies. Actual savings vary by system size, location, and utility. Example only.
Solar Panel Incentives
Massachusetts offers some of the best solar incentives in the country through multiple stacking programs.
| Program | Type | Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMART Program | State | $0.06-$0.38/kWh | Performance-based incentive paid over 10+ years |
| Federal Tax Credit (25D) | Federal | Ended Dec 31, 2025 | Repealed for anything placed in service after 2025. No cap applied on residential solar installations |
| Net Metering | State | Retail rate credit | Get credited for excess power sent to grid |
| SREC II | State | Market rate | For systems installed before SMART (legacy) |
Understanding the SMART Program
The Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) program pays you for every kilowatt-hour your solar panels generate, regardless of whether you use the electricity or send it to the grid.
Base Rate
$0.06-$0.18/kWh
Depends on system size and utility territory
Adders Available
+$0.02-$0.20/kWh
For storage, low-income, community solar, etc.
Contract Length
10-20 Years
Locked-in rate for the contract period
Battery Storage Incentives
Adding battery storage to your solar system qualifies for additional incentives and provides backup power during outages.
| Program | Type | Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Tax Credit (25D) | Federal | Ended Dec 31, 2025 | Repealed for anything placed in service after 2025. When paired with solar or standalone |
| ConnectedSolutions | Utility | $275/kW/year | Paid on average contribution during summer events |
| SMART Adder | State | +$0.04-$0.06/kWh | Additional incentive for solar+storage |
| Mass Save Battery Rebate | State | Up to $1,875 | For qualifying battery installations |
Tesla Powerwall 3
13.5 kWh capacity, integrated inverter
Enphase IQ Battery
5-15 kWh modular capacity
Franklin WholePower
13.6 kWh capacity, whole-home backup
How Net Metering Works
When your solar panels produce more electricity than you use, the excess goes to the grid and you receive credits on your electric bill.
- Full Retail Credit
Get credited at the full retail rate for excess generation
- Credits Roll Over
Unused credits carry forward month to month
- Annual True-Up
Credits reconciled annually in March/April
Sample Annual Savings
How to Get Started
Follow these steps to maximize your solar and battery incentives.
Get Multiple Quotes
Compare at least 3 installers on EnergySage or similar platforms
Confirm SMART Eligibility
Verify your system qualifies for SMART program incentives
Consider Battery Storage
Add storage for backup power and additional incentives
Claim All Credits
Enrol in SMART and ConnectedSolutions, and claim MA Schedule EC
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does solar cost in Massachusetts?
The average cost of solar in Massachusetts is $2.80-$3.50 per watt before incentives, so a typical 8kW system runs $22,000-$28,000. Through 31 December 2025 the 30% federal credit brought that down to $15,400-$19,600, but that credit has been repealed. What still reduces the cost is the SMART programme, paid over 10 years, net metering credits on your bill, and the Massachusetts Schedule EC credit of 15% up to $1,000.
Is the SMART program still accepting applications?
Yes, the SMART program continues to accept new applications. However, incentive rates decrease as capacity blocks fill up, so earlier enrollment typically means higher incentive rates. Check with your installer about current availability in your utility territory.
Can I get the federal tax credit if I finance my solar system?
The federal credit no longer applies either way — it was repealed for systems placed in service after 31 December 2025. Financing does still affect which Massachusetts incentives you can claim, and whether you or the installer owns the system. The credit is based on the total cost of the system. However, with a lease or PPA (Power Purchase Agreement), the solar company owns the system and claims the credit instead.
Projects That Pair Well with Solar & Battery
These projects pair well together and may qualify for additional rebates when combined.
EV Chargers
Up to $3,500Charge your electric vehicle with your own solar power. Perfect pairing.
Heat Pumps
Up to $16,000Electrify your heating and power it with solar for maximum independence.
Smart Thermostats
Free - $250Optimize energy usage to maximize your solar self-consumption.
Get the Free Rebate Toolkit
2026 stacking rules, a claiming checklist, and a reference for the credits that ended - all in one PDF.