The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) has proposed several updates to the Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) program for 2024, aiming to enhance its effectiveness and address critical areas of concern. The program promotes solar energy growth in the state by providing financial incentives to users of solar energy systems funded by the state’s utility companies: Eversource, National Grid, or Unitil.
Below is an overview of the new benefits and changes outlined in the 2024 SMART Straw Proposal, which was published in July of 2024:
A Boost for Solar Incentives
The 2024 updates come packed with enhanced financial incentives designed to make solar energy more accessible than ever. Due to supply chain issues, inflation, and rising electricity costs, much of the initial vision for the SMART program fell flat over the past few years. Now, with a new facelift, the program pricing model is designed to match the market in real-time. The state will review the current market conditions and evaluate progress toward solar goals to establish the program's rates and capacity for the upcoming year.
Previous pre-determined capacity blocks have been replaced with annual adjustable blocks and rate structures. This new pricing structure allows for incentive rates to be adjusted yearly.
These incentives mean lower costs for homeowners and businesses alike who are looking to make the switch to solar power. With higher rebates and extended eligibility, Massachusetts is rolling out the red carpet for more solar adopters.
You can learn more in our latest newsletter edition.
A Green Perspective for New Technologies
Innovation is at the heart of the 2024 updates. The SMART Program now embraces emerging technologies that can enhance energy efficiency and battery storage. One of the most significant updates is the increased focus on battery energy storage systems. There's now a substantial benefit for solar systems paired with battery storage!
There is also an emphasis on encouraging more solar installations on buildings and parking lots. The new SMART program outlines a few additional notes about renewables:
- Small-scale projects under 25 kilowatts (kW) are no longer subject to capacity limits. This is mostly residential, but includes small businesses, houses of worship, and nonprofits. However, these projects will no longer be eligible for the energy storage adder since it is now reserved for bigger projects greater than 1 MW.
- Larger projects (greater than 25 kW) and their capacity will be determined annually based on solar deployment targets and costs.
- Canopy-mounted systems will see an increased adder and a more comprehensive range of applications with newly established criteria under the revamped program.
- Ground-mounted installations in undeveloped land areas will be reviewed according to the carbon footprint of the proposed projects to protect agricultural farmland.
The DOER has also proposed updates to the eligibility criteria for various adders within the SMART program (“adders” are considered increased incentive rates). These changes aim to better align the incentives with the state's renewable energy goals and ensure that projects providing additional benefits to the grid or community receive appropriate compensation.
For a full rundown, download the SMART Straw Proposal here.
More Energy Accessibility
The 2024 changes to the SMART program prioritize equitable access to solar energy across diverse communities. This means more support for low- and moderate-income (LMI) residents, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to use solar. Massachusetts is shining a light on solar equity, and proposals will receive additional adders to support these projects.
For example, community solar projects must now enroll at least 40% of LMI customers as subscribers, expanding the outreach to other need-based programs “to include deed-restricted affordable condominiums, homeless shelters, domestic violence shelters, and other affordable housing buildings not covered by the current definition,” according to Energy News Network.
Streamlined Processes for a Smoother Ride
Navigating incentives can feel like a maze. The 2024 updates simplify the application process for participating in the SMART Program, making it easier to access the benefits. This streamlined approach means less paperwork and fewer headaches, allowing you to focus on what really matters: soaking up the sun and saving money!
Partner with Us
The 2024 updates to Massachusetts’ SMART Program are a breath of fresh air for anyone interested in solar energy. With improved financial incentives, a focus on inclusivity, and support for new technologies, the future is looking brighter for the state. Now is the time to jump in and take advantage of everything this program offers. After all, the sun is shining, and the opportunities are ripe for the picking! Contact our Energy Experts to learn how we can maximize this opportunity for your business.
