Massachusetts has one of the most layered solar incentive environments in the country, between the state’s SMART production incentive, required net metering, Mass Save’s battery program, and two tax breaks. This page is a starting point for Massachusetts homeowners researching solar: how the basics work, which utility programs matter, and where to go next. SolarSiteIQ does not sell or install solar; we connect you with one qualified local installer for a free, no-obligation home assessment.
How solar works, briefly
A residential solar system uses rooftop panels to generate electricity, which an inverter converts into a form your home can use. Electricity you do not use right away can be exported to the grid, where net metering credits you for it. At night or on a cloudy day, you draw power from the grid as usual, unless you have added battery storage. For a broader homeowner-focused overview, see going solar in Massachusetts: a homeowner’s guide.
Utilities serving Massachusetts
Most Massachusetts homeowners researching solar are served by one of the state’s three investor-owned utilities:
- Eversource. See our Eversource customer page for net metering, SMART and ConnectedSolutions detail.
- National Grid. See our National Grid customer page for the same.
- Unitil, a smaller service territory, also eligible for SMART and the net metering mandate, though not currently listed as a ConnectedSolutions battery sponsor.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities sets the statewide net metering mandate for these three utilities. Massachusetts also has roughly 40 municipal light plants that are not subject to that mandate and are generally not eligible for SMART or Mass Save programs; if you are served by one, confirm its own terms directly.
Incentives available to Massachusetts homeowners
The federal tax credit that used to apply to most solar purchases ended for expenditures made after December 31, 2025. Massachusetts still offers SMART (a per-kilowatt-hour production incentive), required net metering credits, Mass Save’s ConnectedSolutions program for battery owners, a state sales tax exemption, a local property tax exemption, and a state income tax credit (Schedule EC). See the full Massachusetts solar incentives page for details, program links and what to ask an installer about each one.
What the process generally looks like
Most Massachusetts homeowners go through a similar sequence: a free assessment or site evaluation, a proposal from a licensed installer accounting for your roof, usage and utility, your installer’s SMART application and your utility’s interconnection process, and installation and inspection. Timelines vary by installer and by your utility’s interconnection queue. Ask any installer for a written, project-specific timeline rather than a general estimate.
Choosing an installer
SolarSiteIQ does not independently verify an installer’s licensing or workmanship; our review of an installer’s submitted information is not a substitute for your own diligence. Ask for proof of state licensing and insurance, how long they have worked in Massachusetts, and references. See how to compare solar quotes in Massachusetts for a fuller list of questions.
Common questions
Does solar work well in Massachusetts winters?
Massachusetts gets less sun in winter than in summer, and snow cover can temporarily reduce output, but solar is installed and used successfully throughout the state. See does solar work well during Massachusetts winters for more, and ask your installer for a production estimate specific to your roof.
Will going solar guarantee lower bills?
No one can guarantee savings. Your results depend on your system size, usage, financing and which incentive programs apply to you. Ask for a written, project-specific estimate.
Is SolarSiteIQ an installer?
No. We are an independent service that matches homeowners with one qualified local installer for a free assessment. We do not install, sell, or guarantee workmanship.
What if I am served by a municipal light plant?
SMART, the state net metering mandate and Mass Save generally do not apply. Some municipal utilities offer their own separate incentives; confirm directly with your provider.
Do incentive rates change often?
Yes. SMART 3.0 adjusts incentive values annually, and the Department of Public Utilities currently has an open review that touches on net metering credit value. Always ask for the current published terms.
How do I get started?
Request a free, no-obligation assessment and SolarSiteIQ will connect you with one qualified local installer. Start at /solar-step-1/.
Curious what solar could look like for your home? Start your free assessment and we will connect you with one qualified local installer, no obligation.
