Massachusetts is one of the most solar-friendly states in the U.S. — not just because of incentives, but also because residents face some of the highest electricity costs in the country. Homeowners are turning to solar to lock in savings, reduce their carbon footprint, and participate in a strong renewable energy market supported by SMART program credits and net metering.
Massachusetts Solar Leadership:
Massachusetts ranks #7 in residential solar installations and #3 in commercial solar, with over 5,300 MW of total installed capacity. The state generates over 25% of its electricity from solar — one of the highest percentages in the nation — and has set ambitious renewable energy targets for the coming decades. Massachusetts’ solar industry employs nearly 12,000 workers, making it one of the most important clean energy job markets in New England. From Boston to Worcester to Cape Cod, solar adoption is widespread and strongly supported by state programs.
SMART Program and Economic Incentives:
Massachusetts offers one of the most attractive solar incentive programs in the country: the SMART (Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target) program. SMART provides monthly payments to solar system owners based on the amount of energy their systems produce, creating a guaranteed income stream that lasts for 10-20 years depending on your system size and program enrollment date. These payments are in addition to the electricity savings you realize by producing your own power. Massachusetts also exempts solar installations from sales tax and offers property tax exemptions, meaning your solar system won’t increase your property taxes. With electricity rates often exceeding $0.25 per kWh — among the highest in the nation — the financial case for solar in Massachusetts is overwhelming.
Energy Security in New England:
Massachusetts experiences seasonal weather extremes, from brutal nor’easters and blizzards in winter to summer heat waves that strain the grid. Power outages can last days during severe storms, and electricity demand peaks during the coldest winter months when heating costs soar. Solar panels produce excellent energy even during Massachusetts’ cold, clear winter days, and when paired with battery backup, they provide critical resilience during outages. For Massachusetts homeowners, solar isn’t just about savings — it’s about energy security, environmental leadership, and taking control of some of the nation’s highest electricity costs.
