How Massachusetts Renters Can Save with Solar Power Credits

With increasing utility costs, many Massachusetts renters wonder if they can benefit from solar power incentives. This article explains how solar credits can help tenants reduce electric bills, provides guidance on your rights regarding utilities and billing, and outlines the official state rules and resources to support you.

Understanding Solar Power Credits and Tenant Savings

Solar power credits, also known as "net metering credits," are financial benefits applied to your electricity bill if your home is served by, or enrolled in, a qualifying solar program. In Massachusetts, renters may be eligible for these savings even if they do not own the property. Options include community solar, where tenants can subscribe to shared solar projects, and landlord-owned solar panels that provide bill credits.

How Do Solar Credits Work for Renters?

• Community Solar Programs: Renters subscribe to a local solar farm and receive a monthly credit on their utility bill based on the solar energy generated.
  Learn more about community-shared solar in Massachusetts.
• Landlord-Owned Solar: If your rental unit has solar panels installed by the landlord, credits may be shared with you or reflected in the rent/utility agreement. Make sure your lease clearly states who receives solar credits.

It's essential to know that solar credits reduce the "supply" portion of your electric bill, helping you save each month. The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) oversees these programs.

Legal Protections for Massachusetts Renters

Massachusetts law protects renters' rights regarding utilities and billing, including issues around solar credits. The key legislation is the Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 186 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Law¹.

• Landlords must state in the lease who is responsible for paying utilities, including who receives solar credits.
• As a renter, you cannot be billed for utilities or credits not specified in your lease.
• If you directly pay an electric bill, you may independently enroll in community solar programs.

What You Need to Get Solar Credits as a Renter

• Your own electric utility account with Eversource, National Grid, or Unitil
• A lease that allows you to choose your electricity supplier or enroll in shared/third-party solar subscriptions
• Written notice or agreement from your landlord if participating in a unit-based solar credit sharing arrangement

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Electric Supplier Switch Form (No official form number): Used to change your electricity supplier or enroll in a community solar program. Contact your utility for the correct form or process.
  Example: If you want to join a community solar program, fill out the supplier switch form provided by Eversource or your utility. They may process this online or by mail.
• DPU Complaint/Inquiry Form: Used to file a complaint if your landlord or utility denies you solar credits or improperly bills you.
  Example: If solar credits aren’t being applied as agreed, you may file a complaint with the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities.

The Tribunal Handling Tenancy Disputes

Disputes about rental agreements and utility billing, including solar credit allocation, are generally resolved through local District Courts in Massachusetts. The state’s main tenancy legislation is covered by Massachusetts Housing Court and the Department of Public Utilities (for utility-specific complaints).

Action Steps for Massachusetts Renters

If you're interested in benefiting from solar credits or facing a dispute, here’s a brief summary of your steps:

• Check your lease for utility/solar provisions
• Ask your landlord if your building has solar panels and how credits are allocated
• If eligible, enroll in a community solar program
• For unresolved issues, file a complaint with the Department of Public Utilities

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can Massachusetts renters qualify for solar credits?
   Yes, renters can access solar credits through community solar subscriptions or if their landlord allocates credits from on-building solar panels.
2. How do I know if I'm receiving solar credits?
   Check your electricity bill for "net metering credits" or ask your landlord or utility. Your lease or utility account must permit credits to be applied to your bill.
3. What should I do if my landlord keeps all solar credits?
   Review your lease. If solar credits were promised, but not delivered, try to resolve it directly or contact the Department of Public Utilities with a complaint form.
4. Is there an official government solar program for renters?
   Yes, the state offers community-shared solar programs where renters can enroll independently.
5. Can landlords charge more rent because of solar panel installation?
   Your rent may increase only if allowed under your lease or in compliance with Massachusetts rental laws. Rent increases must follow all legal notice requirements.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• You may be eligible for solar savings through community or landlord-owned solar programs.
• All utility agreements, including solar credits, should be clear in your lease.
• If you face utility billing issues, official help is available through state agencies.

Understanding your lease, reviewing your bills, and knowing official complaint procedures can help you make the most of solar energy savings in Massachusetts.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) – Complaints, billing questions, and utility policies
• Massachusetts Housing Court – For legal disputes, utility responsibilities, or lease violations
• Tenant Rights by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities
• Community-Shared Solar Program Information

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1. Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 186 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Law
2. Department of Public Utilities (DPU)
3. Community-Shared Solar Program
4. Massachusetts DPU Complaint Form

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