Massachusetts Improves Net Metering Program to Expand Solar Access

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities on Nov. 29 announced two orders to improve the state’s net metering program and broaden access to solar power for residents. The first order raises the project size threshold for participating in the program without being subject to the net metering cap. The second action provides new exceptions to the Single Parcel Rule, which previously limited facilities to one per individual parcel of land. Both actions extend the program to low- and moderate-income households.

The update pertaining to project size raises the threshold for facilities to net meter without cap allocation from 10 kilowatts (kW) to 25 kW, enabling these facilities to qualify for a higher net metering credit value. The order revises the definition of “cap-exempt facility” in order to distinguish facility types. Previously, only 10-kW facilities were eligible for net metering without a cap allocation. In the update, Nameplate Cap Exempt Facilities (10kW to 25kW) are eligible for net metering without a cap allocation. Cap Exempt Facility Serving On-site Load, which refers to 26kW to 60 kW facilities that serve on-site energy load with an interconnection service agreement dated Jan. 1, 2021, or later, are now also eligible for net metering without cap allocation.

The department’s revision of the Single Parcel Rule implements exceptions that allow multiple solar net metering facilities on one piece of land. The update eliminates the Subdivision Rule which initially prevented subdividing a piece of land to include multiple net metering systems. The revision of the rule will permit one parcel, which is a single piece of land defined by boundaries recorded at the Registry of Deeds, to accommodate multiple solar net metering facilities. Specific cases include cases where more than one building or housing development on a single parcel contains solar facilities and cases where solar facilities in a single building are connected to more than one meter. These exemptions will be particularly useful for residents in affordable housing units and condos to benefit from solar power generation.

This marks the second order revising the program’s regulations in 2024. The department issued an order in February to amend the regulations to ensure compliance with the 2021 Climate Roadmap Law. To start implementing the revisions, the state’s electric distribution companies, Eversource, National Grid, and Until, must submit tariff filings in January 2025.