Eversource Solar Overview
Eversource Energy serves customers across three New England states, each with different solar policies and incentives. The good news: all three states have strong solar support, and Eversource's high electricity rates make solar particularly valuable.
Customers: 4.4 million
Net metering: Yes (all three states)
Electricity rates: $0.20-$0.30/kWh (high)
Solar rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good (Source: EIA Electric Power Monthly)
New England's high electricity rates—among the highest in the continental US—mean solar saves more per kWh than in most other regions. Combined with strong state policies, Eversource territory is excellent for solar.
Net Metering by State
| State | Net Metering | Credit Rate | System Limit | Special Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | Yes | ~Retail rate | 25 kW residential | RSIP, Green Bank |
| Massachusetts | Yes (SMART) | Variable by program | 25 kW residential | SMART, MassSave |
| New Hampshire | Yes | Full retail rate | 100 kW residential | Group net metering |
Massachusetts SMART Program
Massachusetts uses the Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) program instead of traditional net metering for new systems. SMART provides fixed incentive rates based on system characteristics and location.
Connecticut Net Metering
Connecticut offers strong net metering with credits at approximately retail rates. The state also has the Green Bank and various financing programs to make solar more accessible.
New Hampshire Net Metering
New Hampshire offers full retail net metering up to 100 kW—one of the most generous limits in the country. Group net metering is also available for multi-unit properties.
Eversource Electric Rates
Eversource rates are among the highest in the country, making solar particularly valuable:
| State | Average Rate | Summer Peak | Annual Savings (7kW) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | $0.24-$0.28/kWh | $0.28-$0.35/kWh | $1,800-$2,400/year |
| Massachusetts | $0.26-$0.32/kWh | $0.30-$0.38/kWh | $1,900-$2,600/year |
| New Hampshire | $0.20-$0.24/kWh | $0.24-$0.28/kWh | $1,500-$2,000/year |
Time-of-Use Rates
Eversource offers time-of-use rates in some territories. These can benefit solar customers with batteries who can shift usage to off-peak hours and export or store during peak times.
SREC Programs
Massachusetts SMART & SRECs
- SMART program: Fixed incentive rates for qualifying systems
- SREC II: Legacy program (may still apply to some systems)
- Additional income: $30-80 per SREC
- Registration required: Must enroll to receive credits
Connecticut Programs
- RSIP: Residential Solar Investment Program (check availability)
- ZREC: Zero-emissions Renewable Energy Credits
- Green Bank: Financing and incentive programs
New Hampshire
- Rebates: Some municipal and co-op programs
- RECs: Available but market smaller than MA/CT
- Property tax exemption: Solar exempt from property tax
Interconnection Process
Eversource Interconnection Timeline
| Step | Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Day 1 | Installer submits to Eversource |
| Eversource review | 10-20 business days | Technical and grid review |
| Approval | 5-10 days | Authorization issued |
| Installation | 1-3 days | Physical installation |
| Local inspection | 5-15 days | Municipal inspection |
| Eversource final | 10-15 days | Meter and final inspection |
| PTO | 3-7 days | Permission to Operate |
Total timeline: 35-60 days typical. Massachusetts may be faster due to SMART program streamlining.
State Incentives
Connecticut
- Sales tax exemption: Solar equipment exempt
- Property tax exemption: Solar doesn't increase property tax
- CT Green Bank: Low-interest financing available
- RSIP: Performance-based incentive (check availability)
Massachusetts
- SMART program: 10-year fixed incentive
- State tax credit: 15% credit up to $1,000
- Sales tax exemption: Solar equipment exempt
- Property tax exemption: 20-year exemption
- Mass Save: Additional rebates may be available
New Hampshire
- Property tax exemption: Solar exempt
- No state sales tax: NH has no sales tax
- Municipal programs: Some towns offer additional incentives
Tips for Eversource Customers
Do This:
- Act while rates are high: High rates = high savings
- Check SMART block (MA): Earlier blocks have higher rates
- Stack all incentives: Don't miss state-specific programs
- Register for SRECs/ZRECs: Additional income stream
- Get multiple quotes: Competitive installer market
- Consider battery: TOU rates + backup value
Watch Out For:
- Interconnection delays: Plan for 45-60 days
- SMART capacity (MA): Blocks can fill up
- Financing rates: Compare carefully—they vary
- Oversizing: Net metering is good but don't overdo it
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Eversource have net metering?
Yes. Eversource offers net metering in all three states it serves (CT, MA, NH). Policies vary by state—Massachusetts uses the SMART program, while CT and NH have more traditional net metering.
Why are Eversource rates so high?
New England has high electricity rates due to transmission costs, limited natural gas pipeline capacity, and regional grid factors. This makes solar more valuable—you save more per kWh generated.
What is the Massachusetts SMART program?
SMART (Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target) provides fixed incentive rates for solar systems for 10 years. Rates vary by "block"—earlier participants get higher rates. It's one of the best solar incentive programs in the country.
How long does Eversource interconnection take?
Eversource interconnection typically takes 35-60 days from application to Permission to Operate. Massachusetts may be faster due to SMART program streamlining.
Is solar worth it in New England?
Yes. Despite less sunshine than the Southwest, New England's high electricity rates make solar economics very attractive. Payback periods of 5-8 years are common in Eversource territory.
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