Maine Solar Rebates

Maine: the small state at the most eastern peak of our country. Known for its beautiful and wild coasts, breathtaking landscapes, and clean crisp air, the state has a lot to offer her residents. You can add one more enticement to move to this special place, and that is the incentives for the installation of solar energy.

State Grant Program

Voluntary Renewable Resource Grants. This is a state grant program that applies to nonprofit, rural electric cooperative, quasi-municipal corporations and districts. There are specific rules for qualification, and it is for the installation of alternative energy systems including photovoltaic panels. The amount awarded varies, with the maximum amount given not exceeding $50,000.

State Loan Programs

Efficiency Maine - Small Business Low-Interest Loan Program. This program is for commercial applications and provides loans of a maximum amount of $35,000. With a low interest rate of 3%, these loans are available to businesses for implementing more energy efficient energy systems.
Home Energy Loan Program (HELP). This loan is for residential purposes; and while supporting the implementation of energy efficient measures around the residence, it will also cover the installation of solar water heat systems. The amounts are between $2,800 and $30,000, with an interest rate of 3.95%.

State Rebate Programs

Solar and Wind Energy Rebate Program. This rebate program applies to commercial and residential sectors and provides rebates in differing amounts for the installation of solar components. Although the program is currently in place through 2010, funds are limited and may already be allocated through 2009.

Net Metering

There is a net metering program in place in Maine. The utility companies offer a credit to their customers who are producing alternative energy and contributing more to the energy grid than what they are consuming.

Overall, Maine's solar incentive programs rate about average. Although better than many states, it can do better. The Solar and Wind Energy Rebate Program for example, while a good program, is too short on funds and doesn't provide assistance for enough people. In combination with the federal incentives, however, solar energy in Maine is still affordable and will pay for itself in the long-run.

Additional Resources