Here is why for 2016:
Renewable Portfolio Standard RPS (Massachusetts ranks 14)
RPS mandates what percentage of all energy generated within the state comes from renewable sources and by a specified deadline. Utilities meet this standard by generating their own renewables or through purchasing it from their customers. If a utility doesn’t meet the standard then they must pay high fees for non-compliance. Utilities in strong RPS states will offer substantial solar incentives to homeowners which for the utilities may be less expensive than paying the fees.
RPS Solar Carve-out (Massachusetts grade F)
States with solar carve-outs require that electric utility companies generate a certain percentage of their renewable power from the sun. There are stiff penalties for non-compliance. Generally in states with larger solar carve-outs you can expect bigger and better solar incentives to homeowners resulting in better financial returns for solar investments.
Electricity Prices (Massachusetts third highest)
The power your solar panels produce reduces your electric bill. The higher the price for power in your state the more money you save by generating your own.
Net Metering policies (Massachusetts grade A)
Net Metering allows you to sell electricity you don’t use to your utility for the same price they sell it to you. The grade reflects the state legislature’s balanced approach in various state policies governing net metering.
Interconnection Policies (Grade A)
Interconnection rules determine how solar system owners can plug in to the grid and send power to utility companies. The more up-to-date and straightforward the rules are the higher the grade. The best states allow for systems of any size and capacity, offer a less complex process for small systems, bans utilities from requiring unnecessary external disconnect switches and insurance, and has clear rules in place for dispute resolution.
Solar Rebates (Massachusetts ranks 20th)
Solar rebates come from utility companies looking to avoid fees for not generating enough renewable energy as mandated by the RPS (discussed above). Helping homeowners go solar often costs less than paying the fees.
Solar Tax Credit of $1000 (Massachusetts ranks 21st)
This state tax credit is a credit rather than a deduction on your tax return. If you are taxed enough to take advantage of this it is a dollar for dollar deduction off your taxes owed to the state thus further reducing the amount of your solar investment.
Note: The federal government offers a tax deduction of 30% of the total cost of a solar system. Wow!
Solar Performance Payments (Grade A)
Solar performance payments reward homeowners for the electricity they produce on an on-going basis. They are credited either as per-kWh bonuses or Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SREC’s). Both are great for your wallet.
Solar Property Tax Exemption (Grade A. 100% exempt for twenty years)
Installing solar panels on your roof increases the value of your home by up to 20 times your annual energy bill savings. Best of all you are not taxed on this increased value.
Solar Sales Tax Exemption (Grade A)
Solar panels in Massachusetts are sales tax exempt. When it comes to solar in Massachusetts every day is a tax holiday.
Ready to See if Solar is Right For You?
When you decide it’s time to go solar or if you would like more information about going solar, call Energy geeks at (401)-766-1540 or contact us online and let one of our friendly and knowledgeable field representatives come to your home and give you a no-cost solar assessment.