Massachusetts Solar EnergyMassachusetts solar rebates are available through a number of power utilities. The major organization funding rebates in the state is the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative Renewable Energy Trust. The initiative is called Commonwealth Solar, which provides rebates to customers of certain power utilities in the state. 
Rebates are available for systems of any size greater than 1 kW, but the maximum rebate possible is calculated on a system of 5 kW or less. In any case, the rebate is capped at a maximum of $20,000. The program will cover up to 100% of the project costs, though you are unlikely to be able to achieve this.Calculating The RebateUnlike most states, Massachusetts solar rebates are variable depending on your property value and income. It breaks down as follows: Base rate: $1 per kW. Massachusetts Company Components Adder: $0.15 per kW. Moderate Home Value Adder: $ 2.00 per kW. Moderate Income Adder: $ 1.25 per kW. A moderate income is stated as less than or equal to 120% of the median Massachusetts income which according to the 2006 census was $65,000 per annum. So if your income is less than $78,000 p.a. you are eligible for this portion of the rebate. Getting A QuoteAs a Massachusetts resident, you can contact Sunpower for a free site assessment and quote. There's no obligation, and all you have to do is fill out a form. They are a reliable, well established company with a solid track record in the domestic solar area. Which Utilities Are Participating?The following Massachusetts investor-owned electric utilities are participating: If your power utility is not on this list you have a couple of options. You can contact your utility directly to enquire about rebates, or you can look into joining the Renewable Energy Trust and so become eligible for the rebates. More details here. Exemptions And Tax CreditsMassachusetts residents who go solar can look forward to a full exemption on the state sales tax for the solar equipment used in the installations. There is also a 20 year property tax exemption on the improvement in value due to installations. Finally there is a 15% state income tax credit off the cost of installing a system, but this is capped at a maximum of $1000. This is a nice sweetener to the deal, especially considering the current federal tax credit scheme. This last tax credit can be carried forward for three years if you have not paid the necessary tax to be able to claim. This is very considerate, as the federal credit can only be carried forward one financial year. More InformationHave a look at the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative website for application procedures, forms and details of other offers. Return from Massachusetts Solar to Your Solar Power Rebate or return to the Green Planet home page for more Solar Power Facts.
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