Maine Solar Guide 2026
Everything Maine homeowners need to know: costs, incentives, net metering policy, and what makes this state unique for solar.
Key fact about Maine solar
Maine's high electricity rates (~$0.22/kWh) and Efficiency Maine rebates make solar viable despite low sun hours and cold winters. CMP's rate hikes have dramatically improved solar economics in recent years.
Peak sun hours
4
hrs/day avg
Avg electricity rate
22.0¢
per kWh
Median install cost
$3.1/W
before incentives
Typical payback
10 yrs
8 kW system, avg usage
Typical 8 kW system in Maine
Annual production
11,680 kWh
Year-1 savings
$2,570
System cost (est.)
$24,800
No federal tax credit — Section 25D expired December 31, 2025.
Maine Net Metering Policy
Full retail net metering (transitioning to CCNM)
Maine is transitioning from full retail net metering to a Competitive Compensation for Net Metering (CCNM) model for new customers. Current retail NEM customers are grandfathered for years. High electricity rates make solar very attractive.
Maine Solar Incentives
Available in addition to any utility rebates. Federal 25D credit is $0 for homeowner-owned systems from 2026.
- ✓Efficiency Maine solar rebate ($400–$2,000 depending on system size)
- ✓Property tax exemption
- ✓Sales tax exemption
Top Utilities in Maine
Interconnection timeline: 6–12 weeks
Calculate your Maine solar economics
Our calculators are pre-filled with Maine data. Run any tool below.