It is a law enacted in 2005 that provides cash rebates for
solar photovoltaic (PV) electricity producing systems and
solar thermal heating or hot water systems in residential
and commercial buildings. This program has helped nearly
600 customers install solar hot water systems and over 100 installed PV systems.
How did the Solar Energy Rebate Program get enacted?
With leadership from Governor Baldacci, NRCM strongly advocated for passage of LD 1586 “An Act to Encourage the Use of Solar Energy.” Passed unanimously by both houses of the Legislature, the law was signed into law by the governor and became effective on September 17, 2005.
Who is eligible for a rebate?
Maine residents who own or rent residential and/or commercial buildings are eligible. Rebates from new construction are available to the original owner. Systems installed by certified installers after July 1, 2005 are eligible for rebates. Homeowners and businesses applying for rebates should be prepared to furnish all documentation of system purchase and copies of installer licenses and certification. Individuals engaged in the sale, purchase, or installation of a solar system after July 1, 2005 must carefully read the language of the law to ensure that the system will qualify for a rebate.
How much will my rebate be?
Find out specific rebate information here.
How long will the solar rebates be available?
A total of $2,750,000 has been allocated to the Solar Energy Rebate Program Fund for distribution through December 31, 2015. Rebates are available on a first-come first-serve basis. 75% of the funding is available for solar thermal system rebates and 25% is available for solar photovoltaic system rebates.
Where can I buy solar energy equipment?
There are numerous solar equipment suppliers in Maine. Check the yellow pages, do an Internet search or check out: Solarbuzz.com for listings of some suppliers in Maine.
How do I get my rebate?
Efficiency Maineis responsible for administering the Solar Energy Rebate Program. Download an application form from Efficiency Maine. PLEASE BE SURE you send in your application form and receive a reservation number BEFORE you start your project, otherwise you application will be denied. Incentives are on a first-come, first-serve basis. For more information on eligibility and process visit Efficiency Maine.
Do I need to pre-certify my rebate?
Yes. You must submit applications prior to system installation so that system qualification and availability of funds can be determined before a system is actually purchased and installed. When an application is pre-certified, funds will be set aside to ensure the availability of a rebate.
How long will it take to receive my rebate check?
Once the solar system is installed and all paperwork is submitted, Efficiency Maine estimates that rebate checks should have a turn-around of about 30 days.
Where is the list of "certified installers?"
Who do I contact for more information?
For more information, contact Richard Fortier, the Solar and Wind Program Manager at Efficiency Maine, at richard.fortier@maine.gov or at (207) 287-3319.
What are the benefits of installing solar energy equipment?
- Provides essentially pollution-free energy.
- Reduces utility bills.
- Reduces electricity prices (operating costs) over the long-term region-wide. Solar power also boosts long-term energy security and reliability by decreasing dependence on fossil fuels.
- Stimulates local economic activity and supports local businesses.
- Reduces ozone smog thus improving Mainers’ respiratory health and the environment.
- Reduces global warming pollution generated by fossil fuel-fired power plants.
How do solar energy systems help fight global warming?
Solar energy systems use a clean, renewable source of energy - the sun. Using solar energy instead of standard electricity sources or fossil fuels reduces the amount of global warming pollution created.
Where can I get more information about global warming?
Read NRCM's publication, “Global Warming in Maine: Warning Signs, Winning Solutions.”
For additional information on NRCM's clean energy and global warming work, please contact: Emmie Theberge, Clean Energy Outreach Coordinator at emmie@nrcm.org.