State Tracker

Maine

ME

LD 1730 — An Act to Authorize Plug-In Solar Devices

Pending
Current Status
Last verified: March 2026

Legislative Status

Both chambers passed. Awaiting Governor Janet Mills' signature as of March 2026. Maine would become the third enacted state if signed.

Sponsored by: Sen. Mark Lawrence

Legislation Progress

Awaiting Governor's Signature

92%

pipeline complete

Introduced
In Committee
Passed Committee
One Chamber
Both Chambers
Gov. Desk
Enacted

Passage Likelihood

95%

Passed both chambers. Governor Janet Mills (D) has a strong clean energy record and has not signaled opposition. Maine has high electricity rates ($0.279/kWh) creating strong consumer demand.

Session Deadline

April 15, 2026

Legislative calendar cutoff

Expected Timeline

Governor signature expected by April 2026. Maine would become the 3rd enacted state.

Key Provisions

Allows plug-in solar devices up to 1,200W without utility interconnection. Prohibits utilities from charging extra fees. Allows self-installation.

What This Means for You

What You Can Do

If passed: self-install up to 1,200W without utility approval.

Current Limitations

Law not yet enacted. Central Maine Power and Versant currently require interconnection agreements.

Available Rebates & Incentives

Maine solar property tax exemption excludes solar equipment value from property tax. Net Energy Billing (NEB) provides kWh credits for excess solar generation. No active state cash rebate program in 2026. The federal 30% ITC (Section 25D) expired December 31, 2025.

Official Bill Reference

Both Chambers Passed · Awaiting Governor's Signature (March 2026)
View Full Bill Text — LD 1730

Opens official state legislature website in a new tab.

Deregulated Electricity Market

Maine has a fully deregulated electricity market. You may be able to get plug-in solar bundled with your electricity plan through a Retail Energy Provider (REP) — potentially at lower cost than buying hardware outright.

Learn about REP partner offers →

Maine Solar Data

Avg. Electricity Rate27.9¢/kWh
TOU Peak Spread
9¢/kWh
Est. Annual Savings~$284/yr
Last UpdatedMarch 2026

Battery storage is especially valuable here. A 9¢/kWh TOU spread means you save an extra 9¢ for every kWh you shift from peak to off-peak hours — on top of your base solar savings.

Calculate ME Savings
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This information is for educational purposes only. Laws change frequently. Consult a local attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.