Massachusetts Energy Incentives Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about MA energy programs. Updated April 2026 — after federal credit expiration.
Eligibility & Income
What income level qualifies for Mass Save income-eligible rebates?+
Income-eligible tier requires household income at or below 60% of Area Median Income (AMI). For 2026: 1-person $42,500 · 2-person $48,600 · 3-person $54,650 · 4-person $63,750 · 5-person $68,850. Above 80% AMI is "Standard" tier.
Can renters get Massachusetts energy incentives?+
Yes, renters qualify for: LIHEAP fuel assistance (income-eligible), MOR-EV electric vehicle rebate (all income levels), Community Solar (10% bill savings), and WAP/EmPower MA weatherization (income-eligible, through landlord coordination). Renters do NOT qualify for heat pump, insulation, or HPWH rebates — those require property ownership.
Do I need a Social Security Number to apply for LIHEAP?+
LIHEAP does not require a SSN for all household members. Contact your local Community Action Agency — many serve all residents regardless of immigration status. Requirements vary by agency.
I'm self-employed. How do I prove income?+
Use your most recent federal tax return (Schedule C) or 3 months of bank statements showing average monthly income. Some programs accept a signed self-certification of income.
Mass Save Programs
What is a Mass Save Home Energy Assessment and is it free?+
A Mass Save Home Energy Assessment is a comprehensive audit of your home's energy use. A trained energy advisor visits, checks insulation, air sealing, heating equipment, and lighting. It's 100% free for all Massachusetts electric customers. Call 1-866-527-7283 to schedule.
How long does it take to get a Mass Save rebate?+
After installation, your contractor submits the rebate to Eversource or National Grid. Processing typically takes 6–8 weeks. Checks are mailed. Income-eligible applications may take longer (10–14 weeks) due to income verification.
Can I combine Mass Save rebate with the 0% HEAT Loan?+
Yes. The HEAT Loan is designed to cover the portion the rebate doesn't cover. If a heat pump costs $15,000 and your rebate is $8,500, you can finance the remaining $6,500 at 0% interest for up to 7 years.
Does my contractor need to be registered with Mass Save?+
Yes. Only Mass Save Trade Allies are eligible to submit rebates on your behalf. Using a non-registered contractor forfeits your rebate. Search for registered contractors at masssave.com.
Solar & SMART Program
How is my SMART solar rate determined?+
Your rate depends on: (1) your utility company (Eversource, National Grid, Cape Light Compact, or Unitil), (2) the current tranche (tranche 5 as of 2026), and (3) whether you are income-eligible (2× base rate). Battery adds +$0.04/kWh.
Are the federal solar tax credits still available in 2026?+
No. The federal 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for residential solar installations (25D) expired December 31, 2025 and was not renewed. The Massachusetts 15% state solar tax credit (max $1,000) and 6.25% sales tax exemption remain active.
Can I get SMART and net metering at the same time?+
No. SMART and net metering are mutually exclusive — you choose one or the other at installation. Most installers recommend SMART for new installations because the fixed 20-year rate provides more certainty than net metering credits.
Federal Programs (LIHEAP, WAP, MOR-EV)
Did federal energy tax credits expire in 2025?+
Yes. The IRA energy credits (25C for heat pumps/insulation, 25D for solar, 30C for EV chargers) all expired December 31, 2025. They were not extended in the 2025 tax bill. Massachusetts state programs remain fully funded and active.
What is MOR-EV and how much is the Massachusetts EV rebate?+
MOR-EV (Massachusetts Electric Vehicle Incentive Program) provides: $3,500 for income-eligible households (≤300% FPL), $1,500 for standard households. Battery EVs only. Vehicle must be purchased or leased from a MA dealer and registered in MA.
What does WAP (Weatherization Assistance Program) cover?+
WAP covers insulation, air sealing, window and door improvements, heating system tune-ups, and health/safety measures (CO detectors, smoke detectors). All at no cost for income-eligible households (≤200% federal poverty level). Average MA WAP benefit: $8,500.
Can I get both WAP and Mass Save insulation?+
Generally no — WAP and EmPower MA cover similar measures for similar income groups. If you qualify for EmPower MA (through Mass Save), you likely don't need to apply separately for WAP. Your Mass Save assessor will direct you to the right program.
Calculator & Privacy
Is Energy.x1000.ai affiliated with Mass Save or any utility?+
No. Energy.x1000.ai is an independent tool run by LIGHT HOPE LLC, a Boston-based clean energy technology company. We are not affiliated with Mass Save, Eversource, National Grid, MassCEC, or any government agency.
Does the calculator share my information with contractors?+
No. We do not sell leads or share your information with contractors. Your calculation data stays in your account. See our methodology page for full details on data use.
How accurate are the estimates?+
Estimates are based on published program guidelines as of April 2026. They are typically accurate within 10–20% of actual benefits. Actual amounts depend on: an in-home audit, income verification, contractor quotes, and program availability at time of application.
Still Have Questions?
The calculator will show your personalized eligibility — no need to figure it out manually.