Let's Explore Eversource's Solar Incentives in Massachusetts and How They Contribute
When it comes to saving on energy costs in Massachusetts, you might wonder whether Eversource plays a role. Does the utility help you go solar or provide any incentives? The short answer is yes, with a little nuance. Here is how it works in 2026.
Eversource's Solar Incentives: An Overview
Eversource doesn't run its own solar rebate. Instead, it administers the programs that make solar pay off in its Massachusetts territory: it credits your bill through net metering for the extra power your system sends to the grid, and it pays out the state's SMART 3.0 incentive to its customers. The rules for both are set by the state, not by Eversource.
How MA Solar Incentives Put Money Back in Your Pocket
The biggest ongoing incentive is the Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target program, now in its third version, SMART 3.0. Eversource customers with home systems earn a payment for every kilowatt-hour their panels produce, on top of net metering credits. For home systems enrolled in 2026, that's a flat $0.03 per kWh ($0.06 for low-income customers) for up to 20 years. Our SMART 3.0 guide explains how to enroll and what to ask your installer.
Homeowners who own their systems can also claim a state income tax credit of 15% of the cost, up to $1,000, and a 20-year exemption from local property tax on the system. Two things to know about financing: the state's Mass Solar Loan program closed to new applicants in 2020, and the Mass Save HEAT Loan doesn't cover solar panels, though it can cover a home battery enrolled in the ConnectedSolutions program, which pays battery owners for sharing stored power during peak demand. If you lease or choose a PPA, your system qualifies for the 30% federal credit, and that value comes to you as a lower rate. See the Massachusetts solar incentives page for the full list.
Customizing Your Solar Solution
Your Eversource bill is also what a solar company should use to design your system accurately. By looking at your energy use month by month, a designer can size a system that fits your home and makes the most of these incentives.
By understanding your energy usage patterns, solar companies can determine the number of panels, where they go, and the overall system design that will generate enough clean energy to offset your electricity use. It's a solar blueprint built around your home.
Estimating Energy Savings
Your bill also lets a solar company estimate how much you can save. By comparing your current electricity rates and usage with how much power a system on your roof should produce, they can project your savings from net metering and SMART 3.0 together.
Comparing your current energy costs with the projected savings gives you a clear idea of what to expect, so you can decide whether solar makes sense for you.
Conclusion
Eversource doesn't offer its own solar rebate, but it pays the net metering credits and SMART 3.0 payments that make up most of the value of a home system in its territory. Together with the state tax credit and property tax exemption, they make solar a strong option for many Eversource customers.
Evergreen Solar offers cash, loan, lease, PPA and prepaid PPA options. Our guide to how to pay for solar in 2026 compares them, or you can get a free quote for your home.