Net metering credits you at the full retail rate for excess solar production. But many states are shifting to net billing at lower avoided-cost rates. Here is what your utility actually pays you.
Massachusetts Net Metering Policy
Full net metering with retail rate credits for residential systems up to 25 kW
| Credit Type | 1:1 retail rate |
| System Cap | No aggregate cap; all residential systems qualify |
| Policy Trend | Stable. Massachusetts remains committed to net metering with no significant changes proposed for residential solar. |
Utility-by-Utility Breakdown
| Utility | Credit Type | Excess Handling | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Grid | 1:1 retail | Monthly rollover, annual true-up at avoided cost | Strong SMART program integration |
| Eversource | 1:1 retail | Monthly rollover, annual cash-out | Largest territory in MA |
| Unitil | 1:1 retail | Monthly rollover | Small territory in north-central MA |
Impact on Your Solar Savings
In Massachusetts, your net metering policy directly affects how much your solar system is worth. With 1:1 retail rate credits, excess solar production is valued at the full retail rate. This affects your payback period and 25-year savings.
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Maximizing Value in Massachusetts
- Size your system to match annual consumption (avoid large excess at year-end)
- Shift high-usage appliances (laundry, dishwasher) to solar production hours
- Monitor production monthly to ensure your system is performing as expected
Net Metering in Other States
Connecticut →Rhode Island →New Hampshire →Vermont →Maine →New Jersey →Pennsylvania →New York →Texas →
See Net Metering Applied to Your MA Quote
Our calculator factors in your specific utility's net metering policy for accurate savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is net metering?▼
Net metering is a billing arrangement where your utility credits you at the full retail rate for excess solar electricity you send to the grid. Your meter effectively "runs backward" when you produce more than you use.
What is the difference between net metering and net billing?▼
Net metering credits at the full retail rate (e.g., $0.27/kWh in CT). Net billing credits at a lower "avoided cost" rate (e.g., $0.08–$0.12/kWh). Net billing reduces the value of excess solar production.
Is net metering going away?▼
Several states are transitioning from net metering to net billing or successor tariffs. California already moved to NEM 3.0. Most NuWatt service states still have favorable net metering but policy trends favor lower credit rates.