Changes Coming to Connecticut’s Residential Solar Program in 2026
Connecticut’s solar landscape is evolving again. The state’s energy regulators are preparing to roll out new rules that adjust how solar energy production is valued starting in 2026. While these updates affect how future systems are credited, solar in Connecticut remains one of the most reliable ways to lower your energy costs and contribute to a cleaner, more resilient grid.
What is Changing With Connecticut Solar and How Does it Affect Me?
Beginning in 2026, Connecticut will increase the non-bypassable charge on all solar energy your system produces from 0.5¢ to 3.25¢ per kilowatt-hour (kWh). This updated rate will apply to new solar customers who enroll in Connecticut’s Residential Renewable Energy Solutions (RRES) program on or after January 1, 2026.
If You Already Have Solar in CT
If your residential solar panel system is already installed and enrolled in the RRES program or in a previous Connecticut net-metering agreement, this change won’t affect you. Your existing terms will remain in place, and your credits for power sent back to the grid will continue as they do today.
If You’re Planning to Go Solar
For new residential solar systems that apply for interconnection with Eversource or UI on or after January 1, 2026, the 3.25¢/kWh non-bypassable charge will apply to all solar energy your system produces.
Here’s what that means in practice:
Your home will still use your solar energy first.
You’ll still earn credits for the power your system sends back to the grid.
Those credits will now be reduced by 3.25¢ per kWh of your system’s total monthly production.
Because the charge applies to all solar energy your system produces (and not just the portion exported to the grid) adding battery storage will not eliminate this fee.
In short, homeowners in Connecticut will continue to earn credits for the solar energy their systems generate, but the value of those credits will be reduced by the non-bypassable charge.
How Connecticut Net Metering Works
Under Connecticut’s current net metering structure, homeowners with residential solar panels receive credits on their utility bills for the excess energy their systems produce and send to the grid. These credits can offset electricity drawn from the grid when the sun isn’t shining, helping balance monthly costs.
Even with the updated non-bypassable charge, the foundational benefits of Connecticut solar remain: lower energy bills, predictable savings, and renewable power produced right at home.
The Value of The Right Partner
While the rules are changing, the value of solar hasn’t. A trusted local installer can help you navigate the evolving programs, maximize your incentives, and lock in savings before new rates take effect.
Earthlight Technologies has helped Connecticut homeowners make the switch to solar with confidence. If you’ve been thinking about going solar, now is the time to act—before the 2026 updates take effect.
Contact Earthlight today to learn how you can benefit from solar energy and start saving with confidence.