Connecticut has established a comprehensive suite of renewable energy incentives and programs to promote clean energy adoption among residents and businesses. These initiatives aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and support the state’s ambitious climate goals.
State Programs and Incentives
Residential Renewable Energy Solutions (RRES) Program
Launched in January 2022, the RRES Program offers renewable energy tariffs to compensate residential solar owners for the power their systems produce and provide to the local electric grid. This program replaces the legacy net metering program and the residential solar incentive program (RSIP). Administered by Connecticut’s regulated electric distribution companies, Eversource Energy and The United Illuminating Company (UI), the RRES Program is established pursuant to Public Act 19-35, codified in § 16-244z of the General Statutes of Connecticut. (portal.ct.gov)
Solar Home Renewable Energy Credit (SHREC) Program
The SHREC program provides performance-based incentives over 15 years for residential solar installations. Participants receive Class I SHREC credits paid per kilowatt-hour (kWh) produced, with rates varying by installation date and system size. The average value ranges from $0.30 to $0.40 per kWh for the first 10 years, totaling between $3,000 and $6,000 over the program’s life. (prospershield.io)
Connecticut Green Bank Programs
The Connecticut Green Bank offers several financing options to support clean energy projects:
- Smart-E Loan: Provides low-interest financing for residential solar installations, with an annual percentage rate (APR) of 4.49%.
- Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (CPACE): Offers financing for commercial property solar installations.
- Additional Financing Products: Various other financing options are available for residential solar projects. (prospershield.io)
- Address: 79 Elm Street, Hartford, CT 06106-5127
- Phone: (860) 424-3000
- Email: DEEP.Webmaster@ct.gov (portal.ct.gov)
- 3 New England states join together for offshore wind power projects, aiming to lower costs, Published on Wednesday, October 04
- Connecticut saw decline in greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles, residential heating in 2023, Published on Thursday, September 04
Net Metering
Connecticut’s net metering policy allows residential solar system owners to receive full retail rate credits for excess electricity generated and fed back into the grid. These credits roll over month-to-month and are reconciled annually at the avoided cost rate. This policy applies to systems up to 2 megawatts (MW) in size. (prospershield.io)
Property Tax Exemption
Solar installations are exempt from property tax increases, protecting homeowners from higher taxes despite increased home value. (prospershield.io)
Sales Tax Exemption
Solar equipment purchases are exempt from Connecticut’s 6.35% sales tax, saving approximately $1,200 to $1,800 on typical residential systems. (prospershield.io)
Inflation Reduction Act Home Energy Rebate Programs
Connecticut has allocated funds from the federal Inflation Reduction Act to support home energy upgrades. The Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR) program and the Home Efficiency Rebate (HER) program are currently under development, with expected launches in mid-2025 and early 2026, respectively. (portal.ct.gov)
Federal Programs
Federal Tax Credits
Connecticut residents can claim the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) on all solar installation costs through December 31, 2025, applicable to both panels and battery storage. (prospershield.io)
Local Services
Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)
DEEP oversees the state’s energy and environmental policies, including renewable energy programs. Residents can contact DEEP for information and assistance regarding renewable energy initiatives.
Contact Information:
Benefits and Assistance
By participating in these programs, Connecticut residents and businesses can significantly reduce the upfront costs of renewable energy installations, lower their energy bills, and contribute to the state’s environmental sustainability goals.
Government Agencies
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is the primary agency responsible for implementing and managing renewable energy programs in the state. DEEP collaborates with other state agencies, local utilities, and federal partners to promote clean energy adoption and achieve Connecticut’s climate objectives.
Public Records
For detailed information on Connecticut’s renewable energy programs, including program guidelines, application forms, and policy documents, residents can visit DEEP’s official website or contact the agency directly.
By leveraging these state-specific incentives and programs, Connecticut residents and businesses can play a pivotal role in advancing the state’s clean energy transition.