Financial Incentive Summary

Discover all of the current incentives and rebates available to residents undertaking energy improvements in Cambridge.

As a homeowner in Cambridge, you are eligible for many cost saving rebates and incentives to make your home more energy efficient. For example, you might not be aware that NSTAR pays a $2 instant rebate per compact fluorescent bulb. Massachusetts offers a 15% income tax credit (max. $1,000) plus a sales tax exemption on solar or wind energy systems installed on your property. In addition, homeowners may receive $3 or more per watt of installed capacity (up to $20,000) for photovoltaic systems through Commonwealth Solar. NSTAR typically offers a rebate for $25 off a programmable thermostat each winter.

With the last two stimulus packages, the federal government has offered additional tax credits for energy efficient home improvements A 30% credit up to $1500 is valid through 2010 for the installation of Energy Star qualified windows & skylights, roofs, heaters and boilers, etc. In addition, there is an uncapped 30% credit for investments in in geothermal heat pumps and solar water heaters through 2016.

In collaboration with the state and other utilities, NSTAR offers a no-interest loan program that allows homeowners to borrow up to $15,000 which can be paid back over a 7 year period. Lenders participating in a federal energy efficient mortgage program may roll the cost of efficiency related improvements into a mortgage. Details and availability vary.