The cost of electricity in Maine is among the highest in the country, with residents paying an average of 19 cents per kilowatt hour. This is significantly higher than the national average of 13 cents per kilowatt hour. By installing solar panels, homeowners can greatly reduce their electricity bills, saving thousands of dollars over the lifetime of the system.

In addition to saving money on electricity bills, homeowners in Maine can also take advantage of various incentives to make going solar even more affordable. The state offers a rebate program for residential solar installations, as well as a solar renewable energy certificate (SREC) program. The SREC program allows homeowners to earn credits for the solar energy they generate, which can then be sold to utility companies.

Furthermore, the Federal government also offers a tax credit for solar installations, known as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which allows homeowners to deduct 26% of the cost of their solar installation from their federal taxes. This credit will decrease to 22% in 2023.

Another factor that makes solar panels a good investment in Maine is the long lifespan of the systems. Solar panels can last for 25-30 years or more, with little to no maintenance required. This means that homeowners will continue to save money on electricity bills for decades to come.

One potential concern for homeowners in Maine is the climate. The state is not known for having the strongest sun, and some may worry that their solar panels will not generate enough electricity to make the investment worthwhile. However, modern solar panels are highly efficient and can still generate significant amounts of electricity even in less sunny climates.

In conclusion, solar panels are a worthwhile investment for most homeowners in Maine. The high cost of electricity and various incentives, such as state and federal tax credits, make going solar a smart financial decision. The long lifespan of the systems and the potential to save thousands of dollars on electricity bills also make solar panels a solid investment. The state's climate may be a concern, but modern solar panel technology is highly efficient and can still generate significant amounts of electricity even in less sunny climates.