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Updated for 2026
The 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for residential solar installations expired after December 31, 2025. However, solar can still be a strong investment in New England. Due to high electricity rates across the region, many homeowners continue to see payback periods of around 5-7 years—even without the federal tax credit.
One of the key reasons solar still makes sense is the availability of alternative financing options such as leases and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). With these structures, a third party owns the system, allowing customers to benefit indirectly from the tax credit through 2027. Battery storage systems also remain eligible when installed under third-party ownership.
In addition, most New England states offer local incentives that can further improve overall returns. These include rebates, net metering programs, and Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs). State-level programs—such as Efficiency Maine and Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target Program (SMART)—continue to provide valuable support, and all major incentives remain in place.
Finally, the cost of solar panels continues to decline (though it varies by state), helping offset the loss of the federal credit and creating even more opportunities for homeowners to save.
Contact our solar advisors to discover smart ways to save on solar in your state and find the best solution for your home.
Several states, municipalities, and utility providers offer extra financial incentives which may include:
These options make it easier for homeowners to go solar with little or no upfront cost, while still qualifying for the solar panel installation tax credit in most cases. Financing can spread your investment over time while still delivering long-term energy savings.
Though the upfront cost of a solar energy system can be significant, incentives like the ITC, rebates, and net metering can dramatically reduce the out-of-pocket solar panel installation cost. Over time, these systems typically pay for themselves through:
The availability and value of these programs vary depending on where you live. Some states offer thousands of dollars in additional savings, making it crucial to research incentives specific to your area.
Net metering enables you to send excess electricity generated by your solar system back to the grid in exchange for credits on your electric bill. This can lead to significant ongoing savings, as your credits can offset your future energy usage.
Net metering policies are regulated at the state and utility level, so the benefits you receive will depend on your location. Many states have strong net metering programs in place that substantially improve the economics of going solar.
In select states, you can earn Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) for every 1,000 kilowatt-hours (or 1 megawatt-hour) of solar energy your system produces. These certificates can be sold to utility companies, generating additional income and helping offset your solar panel installation cost even further.
Don’t Miss Out — Go Solar Today!
Switching to solar power is a wise investment in your home, your future, and the environment. With the federal solar panel installation tax credit, state and local incentives, and innovative financing options, homeowners have more ways than ever to save money and reduce their carbon footprint. Act now to take full advantage of these incentives and maximize your return on investment in clean, renewable energy.
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