Maryland vs West Virginia Solar Incentives: Which State Gets the Better Deal?
Side-by-side comparison of Maryland and West Virginia solar incentive programs in 2026: state tax credits, net metering rules, exemptions, payback period, and projected 25-year savings.
| Metric | MD · Maryland | WV · West Virginia |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Monthly Bill | $165 | $165 |
| Peak Sun Hours / Day | 4.5 ◆ | 4.3 |
| Avg $/Watt Installed | $2.95 | $2.95 |
| State Tax Credit | None | None |
| Net Metering | retail | avoided-cost |
| SREC Market | ~$9800 | No |
| Property Tax Exempt | Yes | No |
| Sales Tax Exempt | Yes | No |
| Avg Payback (yrs) | 7 ◆ | 9.9 |
| Avg 25-Year Savings | $44,100 ◆ | $27,600 |
State Tax Credit Comparison
Maryland offers no state income tax credit. West Virginia offers no state income tax credit.
Net Metering Policies
Maryland: retail rate net metering active. West Virginia: avoided-cost rate net metering active.
Net metering is often the most economically significant solar policy because it determines how excess production is valued. Retail-rate states (where you receive full retail price for exported energy) have substantially better solar economics than avoided-cost or no-net-metering states.
Average 25-Year Savings
Maryland: $44,100 over 25 years (avg payback 7 yrs). West Virginia: $27,600 over 25 years (avg payback 9.9 yrs).
Verdict: Which State Wins on Solar?
Maryland edges out West Virginia on lifetime savings primarily due to higher solar irradiance.
Note: state averages mask significant within-state variation. Your specific utility, roof orientation, and household electricity profile drive your actual numbers — use the calculator to model your home directly.