The Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) program pays Massachusetts homeowners a fixed rate per kilowatt-hour for 10 years. Here's how to qualify, what the current rates are, and how to stack it with the federal tax credit.
Massachusetts has consistently ranked among the top solar states in the country, and the SMART program is the centerpiece of why. Unlike incentive programs that pay a lump sum or require you to navigate a volatile market, SMART (Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target) pays you a fixed rate per kilowatt-hour for a full 10 years, making your solar ROI predictable from day one.
What Is the SMART Program?
The [Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) program](https://www.mass.gov/solar-massachusetts-renewable-target-smart) pays solar system owners a fixed compensation rate for every kilowatt-hour their system produces, for 10 years. The program is administered by the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) and replaced the older SREC program in 2018. Full current rates and capacity block status are published on the [Mass.gov SMART 3.0 program details page](https://www.mass.gov/info-details/smart-30-program-details). It is available to homeowners throughout the state, including [Worcester](/solar-company-worcester-ma), [Springfield](/solar-company-springfield-ma), [Lowell](/solar-company-lowell-ma), [Cambridge](/solar-company-cambridge-ma), [Quincy](/solar-company-quincy-ma), and [Newton](/solar-company-newton-ma).
How SMART Payments Work
When you enroll in SMART, you receive a fixed compensation rate locked in for 10 years from the date your system is activated. The rate depends on your utility (Eversource, National Grid, or Unitil), your system size, and the current capacity block.
Approximate SMART base compensation rates (2025):
| Utility | Residential Rate (25 kW or less) |
|---|---|
| Eversource | $0.14 to $0.17/kWh |
| National Grid | $0.13 to $0.16/kWh |
| Unitil | $0.15 to $0.18/kWh |
For a typical 8 kW system producing 9,000 kWh/year, SMART payments at $0.15/kWh would generate $1,350/year, or $13,500 over 10 years.
Stacking MA Incentives
| Incentive | Value |
|---|---|
| Federal ITC (30%) | $6,000 to $9,000 on a typical system |
| SMART program payments | ~$13,500 over 10 years |
| MA State Tax Credit | 15% of system cost, up to $1,000 |
| Net Metering | Retail-rate credits for excess generation |
| Property Tax Exemption | 100% exemption on added home value |
| Sales Tax Exemption | 6.25% sales tax waived on equipment |
With electricity rates averaging $0.22/kWh, Massachusetts homeowners typically see payback periods of just 5-7 years.
How to Enroll in SMART
Enrollment is handled through your utility company. Your installer submits a SMART application through your utility portal, you receive a Conditional Approval, the system is installed and inspected, and then Final Approval triggers monthly SMART payments. The entire process typically takes 3-6 months from first quote to first payment.
Is SMART Still Available in 2025?
Yes, but capacity is limited. SMART is organized into blocks, and rates decline as each block fills. Current rates remain highly attractive when combined with the federal ITC and MA state tax credit. If you are considering solar in Massachusetts, act now before the current capacity block fills.
SunLynk connects Massachusetts homeowners with pre-vetted local installers who are fully versed in the SMART enrollment process. Get your free quotes today.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Massachusetts SMART Program
What is the Massachusetts SMART program?
The Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) program pays solar homeowners a fixed rate per kilowatt-hour for all electricity their system produces for 10 years. The rate is locked in when your system is activated and does not change for the full term. It is available to customers of Eversource, National Grid, and Unitil throughout Massachusetts, including [Worcester](/solar-company-worcester-ma), [Springfield](/solar-company-springfield-ma), [Lowell](/solar-company-lowell-ma), [Cambridge](/solar-company-cambridge-ma), [Quincy](/solar-company-quincy-ma), and [Newton](/solar-company-newton-ma).
How much does the SMART program pay per kWh?
Current SMART 3.0 rates for residential systems range from $0.13 to $0.16 per kWh depending on your utility and the current capacity block. For a typical 8 kW system producing 8,800 kWh/year, SMART payments at $0.14/kWh generate approximately $1,232 per year, or $12,320 over the full 10-year program term. Check the [Mass.gov SMART 3.0 program details page](https://www.mass.gov/info-details/smart-30-program-details) for current rates by utility.
Does Massachusetts have a state solar tax credit?
Yes. Massachusetts offers a state income tax credit of 15% of the system cost, capped at $1,000. Combined with the federal 30% ITC, Massachusetts homeowners can claim up to 45% of their system cost in tax credits in the first year. The state credit is claimed on your Massachusetts income tax return (Schedule EC).
How long is the payback period for solar in Massachusetts?
The typical payback period for solar in Massachusetts is 7–9 years. Massachusetts has some of the highest electricity rates in the country ($0.24–$0.28/kWh), which drives up savings. Combined with the federal tax credit, state tax credit, and 10 years of SMART payments, most homeowners see lifetime savings of $40,000–$60,000 on a typical 8 kW system.
Is the Massachusetts SMART program still open?
Yes — SMART 3.0 is currently accepting new applications. Capacity is allocated in blocks; when one block fills, the rate adjusts slightly for the next block. Your solar installer handles the enrollment application as part of the installation process. See the [Mass.gov SMART program page](https://www.mass.gov/solar-massachusetts-renewable-target-smart) for current capacity status.
Explore solar installer options by city: [Worcester, MA](/solar-company-worcester-ma) · [Springfield, MA](/solar-company-springfield-ma) · [Lowell, MA](/solar-company-lowell-ma) · [Cambridge, MA](/solar-company-cambridge-ma) · [Quincy, MA](/solar-company-quincy-ma) · [Newton, MA](/solar-company-newton-ma)
