Solar with Eversource in Massachusetts
If Eversource is your electric utility, here's exactly how solar, net metering, and SMART work for your account in 2026 — plus the interconnection basics.
Eversource is one of the three investor-owned utilities in Massachusetts, serving eastern and western Massachusetts including Greater Boston, Cape Cod, and the Springfield area. That matters for solar, because the three regulated utilities — Eversource included — are required to support full retail-rate net metering and participate in the SMART program. That's what makes solar economics strong for Eversource customers.
Net metering as a Eversource customer
When your panels produce more than your home uses, Eversource credits the excess to your account at the full retail rate — about 31.5¢/kWh as of April 2026 — and those credits roll over month to month. Because Massachusetts electricity rates are among the highest in the nation, that credit is worth more here than in most states. Full net metering details here.
SMART enrollment through Eversource
Eversource customers qualify for SMART production payments of roughly $0.03/kWh for 20 years. Your installer submits the SMART application and the interconnection paperwork to Eversource on your behalf as part of the install process. Eversource is the state's largest electric utility, so most installers are very experienced with its process.
The Massachusetts DPU is reviewing possible net metering changes (docket 25-200). Interconnecting sooner generally grandfathers your system at current rates. And remember — the federal tax credit expired at the end of 2025, so any quote showing it for a 2026 purchase is outdated.
Interconnection basics
Interconnection is the process of formally connecting your solar system to the Eversource grid so you can export power and earn net metering credits. For most residential systems (inverters under 25 kW), it's a standard process your installer manages. Once approved, your net metering and SMART benefits begin. We'll make sure any installer we connect you with handles all Eversource paperwork correctly.
What to expect from the Eversource interconnection process
For most Eversource residential customers, connecting a solar system is a well-worn, standardized process that your installer manages end to end. After your system is designed, your installer submits the interconnection application to Eversource along with the SMART paperwork. Eversource reviews the application to confirm the system meets technical requirements, and once approved, your net metering begins and your SMART payment term can start. As the largest electric utility in Massachusetts, Eversource processes a high volume of solar interconnections, and most installers are deeply familiar with its requirements.
Getting the most value as an Eversource customer
To maximize your solar value on Eversource, a few things matter. Size your system appropriately to your actual usage so you capture the full benefit of net metering without over- or under-building. Confirm your installer enrolls you in SMART and handles the Eversource interconnection correctly, since errors there can delay your incentives. Consider whether a battery makes sense given the ConnectedSolutions income available. And given the ongoing state review of net metering, interconnecting sooner rather than later generally locks in today's more favorable credit terms for your system's long term.
Why the utility matters less than you might think
One reassuring point for Eversource customers: because all three regulated Massachusetts utilities are required to offer full retail net metering and participate in SMART, your core solar economics are broadly similar regardless of which serves you. The differences come down mostly to process details and timelines rather than the fundamental value of going solar. What matters far more to your outcome is the quality of your installer, the appropriateness of your system size, and whether your quote reflects honest 2026 numbers — all things we help you get right.