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Discover the Power of Solar Energy in Maine!

Welcome to Maine, a state renowned for its rugged coastlines, dense forests, and now, its growing enthusiasm for renewable energy. Despite its northern latitude, Maine enjoys a significant number of sunny days, presenting a unique opportunity for solar power generation. This untapped potential is a call to action for homeowners and businesses to invest in clean, renewable energy, aligning with Maine?s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. Supported by advantageous incentives aimed at reducing the upfront costs of solar installations and a community that values the preservation of its natural beauty, Maine is on the verge of a solar energy boom. Learn how leveraging Maine?s solar capacity can light up your home, decrease energy expenses, and support a healthier, greener environment in the Pine Tree State. Join us in embracing the sun?s boundless energy and moving towards a brighter, more sustainable future in Maine.

Solar State Incentives

Maine State Solar Incentives

Maine Community Solar
Maine's NEB policy allows customers to participate in shared renewable projects for kWh or dollar credits on their utility bills, encouraging community solar adoption.
Solar and Wind Energy Property Tax Exemption
Maine offers a property tax exemption for solar and wind energy equipment used on-site or for utility bill credits, encouraging renewable energy adoption.
Local Option - Property Assessed Clean Energy
Maine's Property-Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program allows homeowners to finance energy improvements through special property assessments. The program, authorized in 2010, offers home energy loans with interest rates as low as 5.99% APR.
Interconnection Standards
Maine's Public Utility Commission has established interconnection procedures for all transmission and distribution utilities, setting four tiers with specific technical screens. Fees increase per level, and insurance varies based on facility size.
Maine Green Power Program
Maine Public Utilities Commission enacted legislation in 2009 to offer green power option to residents and businesses. The program, managed by 3 Degrees Group, seeks to source 25% power from local renewable projects.
Maine Solar Easement Rights and Laws
Maine law mandates that post-2009 municipal rules, bylaws, or regulations on solar energy devices on residential properties adhere to certain guidelines, including not prohibiting homeowners or renters from installing or using such devices. These regulations may also include restrictions for public health and safety, property damage, aesthetic values, and shoreland protection. Maine also allows creation of solar easements to ensure access to sunlight.
Energy-Efficient Building Standards for State Facilities
Maine's Governor Mills orders state agencies to exceed renewable energy goals, procure environmentally preferable products, and consider climate change in new projects.
Green Power Purchasing
Maine Green Power program allows residents to choose renewable energy, with purchases matched by Renewable Energy Certificates. All state-owned buildings are required to use renewable energy.
Renewable Portfolio Standard
Maine's Renewable Resource Portfolio Requirement sets a target of 80% renewable energy by 2030 and 100% by 2050. The state's Public Utility Commission (PUC) is required to procure long-term contracts for clean energy generation, favoring bids that benefit ratepayers and the economy.
Net Energy Billing
Maine presents two energy compensation programs for customer generators and community solar project subscribers; the Net Energy Billing kWh Credit Program, open to all, and the Net Energy Billing Tariff Rate Program exclusively for non-residential customers.
Efficiency Maine Trust - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Resource Fund
Maine's public benefits fund for renewable energy allows customers to voluntarily contribute towards green projects via their electricity bill. The fund, managed by the Efficiency Maine Trust, also receives revenue from the state's renewable portfolio standard.

Federal Solar Incentives

USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants
REAP, administered by USDA, provides financial aid to small rural businesses and agricultural producers for sustainable energy projects. Grants cover 25% of the project cost, up to $25 million.
Interconnection Standards for Small Generators
New FERC order mandates small generators under 20 MW to maintain operation during abnormal frequency and voltage events, enhancing interconnection efficiency.
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Loan Guarantees
The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) supports agricultural producers and rural businesses in the US by providing financial aid for renewable energy projects and energy efficiency improvements.
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs)
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs) were used by public entities to fund renewable energy projects. They were repealed in 2017.
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs)
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs) financed energy projects by local governments. Discontinued in 2018, they offered tax credits as interest to bondholders.
Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs - Funding Opportunities
The DOE's Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs aids tribes in attaining energy self-sufficiency and economic growth through renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies.
Fannie Mae Green Financing – Loan Program
Fannie Mae's Green Financing offers loans for multifamily properties aiming for energy and water efficiency improvements. Eligible properties can access favorable rates and additional loan proceeds.
Energy-Efficient Mortgages
Energy efficient mortgages (EEM) allow homeowners to finance energy-saving renovations or purchase new energy-efficient homes. These loans, insured by the U.S. government, aim to promote energy efficiency.
Green Power Purchasing Goal for Federal Government
The Energy Policy Act of 2005 set a goal for federal buildings to use 7.5% renewable energy by 2013. This target was increased to 30% by 2025 but later rescinded in 2018.
USDA - High Energy Cost Grant Program
USDA's grant program, enhancing energy generation in rural areas, concluded its latest application period on July 6, 2021. Updates can be found on the program website.
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Personal)
US law exempts energy conservation subsidies provided by utilities from taxation but requires adjustments for federal tax credits. IRS guidance on solar rebates is unclear.
Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit
H.R. 5376 extends tax credit for energy storage systems and excludes biomass heaters, with credit amounts varying by technology type and installation date.
U.S. Department of Energy - Loan Guarantee Program
The Inflation Reduction Act has allocated $11.7 billion to the LPO for new loans, boosting loan authority by $100 billion, and setting up the Energy Infrastructure Reinvestment Program.
Business Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 updates the federal Business Energy Investment Tax Credit, introducing new eligibility criteria, bonus credits, and transitions the tax credit to a new section.
Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC)
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 introduces changes to the federal renewable electricity production tax credit, introducing new bonus credits and eligibility criteria.
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Corporate)
U.S. energy conservation subsidies provided by public utilities are tax-exempt, but this does not extend to certain electricity-generating systems. Tax credits can't be claimed for unsubsidized expenses.
Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS)
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 allows 100% depreciation for qualified assets, impacting renewable energy technologies. MACRS classifies these technologies for depreciation purposes.
Energy and Emissions Goals and Standards for Federal Government
President Biden's Executive Order 14057 sets ambitious sustainability goals for the US, including 100% carbon-free electricity by 2030 and a fully zero-emission federal fleet by 2035.