New rebate levels will be in effect on Thursday, and the Commonwealth Solar website will be updated by 10:00AM on that day. No applications will be accepted between 12:00AM and 10:00AM on 10/8/09.

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Commercial rebate levels have changed as of October 8, 2009. For new rebate levels, see program documents below, and Step 3 at right.

 

How to apply for a rebate for your solar PV system: It's easy! 

Step 1: Find out if you are eligible
Step 2: Decide if PV is right for you
Step 3: How much is your rebate?
Step 4: Find an Installer who will take you through our program
Step 5: Apply for a rebate
Step 6: Install and interconnect
Step 7: Receive rebate
Step 8: FAQs

Commonwealth Solar Rebate Program Manual
Version 6

How do I learn more about solar energy and apply for a rebate?

Please note: before you have a system installed, your rebate application needs to be approved. This involves working with a Massachusetts-licensed electrician. Your installer can help you with the application process. Follow the steps at right (if you do not see the buttons, increase browser size or scroll right) for an overview of the process, which includes information on estimating your rebate size and how to select an installer.

If you decide to move forward with a PV project, your installer will be responsible for providing you with a turnkey service and installation, including taking you through the Commonwealth Solar rebate process, securing required permits, and ensuring the installation of your PV project. For information on Installers, Costs, and Locations, click here.

Total available funding

Starting in 2008, Commonwealth Solar has $68 million available for funding over the next four years to support PV installations in Massachusetts. The effort combines $40 million from the Renewable Energy Trust (Trust) and $28 million from the Alternative Compliance Payment funds that the Massachusetts Division of Energy Resources has collected under the state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard program. The state estimates that Commonwealth Solar will result in 27 megawatts (MW) of PV projects over the next four years. For a status report on number of awards made, click here.

Customer service

Need further help navigating the website or Commonwealth Solar process?  Please call (508) 439-5700 from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday, or email cs@masstech.org.

Program documents UPDATED October 8, 2009

Follow the steps at right, and if you decide to move forward with a PV project, your installer can help you with completing the application below.

Commonwealth Solar Rebate Program Manual

Attachment A: Residential Application
Attachment A: Residential Rebate Calculator Only (Excel)
Attachment B: Commercial Application
Attachment B: Commercial Rebate Calculator Only (Excel)

Attachment C: Minimum Insurance Requirements

Attachment D: Minimum Technical Requirements
Attachment E: One-Time Turnkey Contract and Insurance Exemption for Licensed Electricians Minimum Requirements
Attachment F-1: PV Project Production Estimator Instructions
Attachment F-2: PV Project Production Estimator
Attachment G: Frequently Asked Questions