Solar by state › Massachusetts
Is solar worth it in Massachusetts? (2026 numbers)
For a typical Massachusetts home with a $177/month electric bill, a 5.3 kW system costs about $17,500 before incentives and saves about $1,910 in year one, paying back in roughly 9 years if you buy it. The federal 25D credit ended for systems installed after 2025, so many Massachusetts homeowners now compare cash purchase against a lease or PPA.
Updated 2026-10-20. Figures are estimates being refreshed against EIA and NREL data. See methodology.
Net metering: Net metering
Investor-owned utility customers receive net metering credits for exported solar, and the SMART program pays for production on top of that.
Incentives still available
- SMART program production incentive
- State income tax credit (15%, up to $1,000)
- Sales and property tax exemptions
- Mass Save battery programs
Major utilities
Eversource, National Grid, Unitil
Solar by city in Massachusetts
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Frequently asked questions
Is solar worth it in Massachusetts in 2026?
For a typical Massachusetts home with a $177/month electric bill, a 5.3 kW system costs about $17,500 before incentives and saves about $1,910 in year one, paying back in roughly 9 years if you buy it. The federal 25D credit ended for systems installed after 2025, so many Massachusetts homeowners now compare cash purchase against a lease or PPA.
How does net metering work in Massachusetts?
Net metering: Investor-owned utility customers receive net metering credits for exported solar, and the SMART program pays for production on top of that.
What solar incentives are left in Massachusetts?
The 30% federal homeowner credit (25D) ended for systems installed after December 31, 2025. State and local programs still include: SMART program production incentive; State income tax credit (15%, up to $1,000); Sales and property tax exemptions; Mass Save battery programs. Leases and PPAs can still pass through a federal business credit claimed by the system owner.
Should I add a battery in Massachusetts?
With retail-rate net metering, a battery is mainly for backup power during outages. It rarely pays for itself on bill savings alone.