Massachusetts Solar in 2026: The SMART Program & Why It Still Pays

Massachusetts is quietly one of the best solar states in the country, for two reasons most homeowners don't fully appreciate: punishing electricity rates and a state incentive program that actually pays you every month. Here is the 2026 picture.

## The SMART program pays you monthly

Massachusetts runs the **SMART program (Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target)** — a state incentive that pays solar owners a set rate for the energy their system produces, on top of the bill savings. Unlike a one-time rebate, SMART delivers **predictable monthly incentive payments** over the program term, which materially improves the economics of going solar in MA.

The exact rate depends on your utility (Eversource, National Grid, Unitil) and when you enroll, so it is worth modeling against your specific situation.

## Among the highest rates in the lower 48

Massachusetts residential electricity rates are among the steepest in the continental US, and they keep climbing. Every kilowatt-hour you generate is one you don't buy at those rates — which is the core of why solar pays here, SMART payments aside.

## What changed federally in 2026

The **30% federal residential solar tax credit (Section 25D) expired December 31, 2025.** MA homeowners buying with cash or a loan in 2026 no longer get the 30% personal credit. But Massachusetts is well-cushioned: **SMART payments + high avoided rates remain**, and lease/PPA structures are particularly strong here. With a **$0-down lease or PPA**, the provider captures the commercial credit and passes the value back as a lower locked rate — so you keep the upside without fronting cash.

## Strong lease/PPA economics

MA has long had some of the best third-party-owned (lease/PPA) economics in the country. In 2026, with the personal credit gone, that advantage matters even more — a $0-down structure is often the cleanest path to immediate savings here.

## Is solar worth it in Massachusetts in 2026?

For most MA homeowners with a **$150+ monthly bill**, a workable roof, and plans to stay: **yes** — the SMART payments, brutal rates, and strong lease economics stack up well. Wait if your bill is very small, you're moving soon, or heavy shade covers your roof.

## See your Massachusetts numbers

[Get a free Solarfying quote](/get-quote) or [explore solar in Massachusetts](/states/massachusetts) and we will model SMART payments, your utility rate, and $0-down options for your home — with no expired federal credit in the math.

## Related reading - [Is solar still worth it in 2026 without the tax credit?](/blog/is-solar-worth-it-2026-without-tax-credit) - [How much does solar cost in 2026?](/blog/how-much-does-solar-cost-2026) - [Do you really need a solar battery in 2026?](/blog/do-you-need-a-solar-battery-2026)