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The 6 Best Solar Companies in Massachusetts (2024)
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Massachusetts is one of the top 10 states for solar energy. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, nearly 20% of the state’s electricity comes from the sun. This stat indicates that going solar in the Bay State is an excellent decision for homeowners. However, with so many solar companies available, it can be difficult to choose the right one.
Our top recommendation for Massachusetts residents is Palmetto Solar who are great choice for homeowners who value great customer service for their solar project. We also recommend Momentum Solar, which offers a quick, streamlined, accessible installation process.
We spent more than 770 hours researching the best solar companies nationwide, comparing providers’ reputations, warranties, costs, and more. We also interviewed industry experts and surveyed over a thousand homeowners to find the best providers. Learn all about our top six solar company picks for Massachusetts residents below.
Key Takeaways
Compare Solar Companies Across Massachusetts
Palmetto Solar landed at the top of our list due to its excellent customer support. In 2022 Palmetto was awarded Most Forward Thinking Contractor by Solar Power World. You can see how other providers compare in the table below.
| Company | Star Rating | Warranties | Payment Options | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 years | Full purchase, loan | GET A QUOTE | ||
| 10–25 years | Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA | GET QUOTE | ||
| 25 years | Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA | GET QUOTE | ||
| 25 years | Full purchase, loan, lease | GET QUOTE | ||
| N/A | N/A | GET QUOTE | ||
| 10–25 years | Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA | GET QUOTE |
Massachusetts’ Top Solar Energy Companies
Our Top Solar Company Picks for Massachusetts
Freedom Solar Power
Palmetto
Best Customer Support
Momentum
Best Installation Process
Venture Solar
Best Northeast Regional Installer
Boston Solar
Best Massachusetts Installer
Sunrun
Best Solar Panel Leasing
Note: In July 2024, SunPower notified dealers it would be halting all new shipments and project installations. The company also noted it would “no longer be supporting new Leases and PPA sales nor new project installations of these financing options.”
What Should You Know About Going Solar in Massachusetts?
You should know how much a solar panel system for your Massachusetts home might cost you, the available incentives, common solar terms, and how you can pay for a system. This will help better prepare you when dealing with a salesperson.
Massachusetts’ standard 6-kilowatt (KW) solar panel system is typically around $21,240.* However, the actual cost of your solar panel system will vary depending on various factors, such as the size of the system, the installation location, complexity, and the type of solar panels you pick. The cost may also vary depending on the company’s technology and your region. Lower cost solar panels are available for homeowners that want to own their solar system, but don’t want to pay the premium associated with the top brands.
Yes, Massachusetts provides plenty of tax incentives and rebates for its residents. Every homeowner is eligible for the federal government’s 30% solar investment tax credit. A reliable solar company can help you find and apply for solar incentives.
There are also various Massachusetts solar incentives in addition to the federal tax credit. We will provide more information about these further down the article.
You may come across some unfamiliar terms when speaking with solar company representatives. Here are some key and their definitions:
- Active monitoring: This refers to the real-time tracking and analysis of various performance metrics in a solar energy system. It includes monitoring electricity production, system health, and environmental conditions.
- Inverter: This component converts direct current (DC) power generated by your solar system into alternating current (AC) power that runs your home.
- Solar panel efficiency rating: This is the percentage of sunlight that solar panels convert into usable electricity. The higher the efficiency rating, the better the energy production.
- Solar battery backup: This stores excess energy generated by solar panels. It enables you to use the stored energy when there is no sunlight, such as at night or during power outages. It also provides greater energy independence and resilience against grid failures. Our survey data shows that most homeowners purchase two batteries with their solar system.
There are different ways to finance solar panels that are suitable for various budgets and financial objectives. Most companies offer two or more payment options, which include a full purchase or loan. Generally, a full purchase or loan is the most cost-effective option for solar installation.
However, there is also the option of solar leasing, which may work for some people, depending on their situation. Nevertheless, we recommend you opt for a full purchase or loan because they offer more benefits than leasing.
Here is a list of the most common payment options:
- Full purchase: This gives you complete system ownership, qualifying you for all tax incentives and rebates.
- Power purchase agreement (PPA): The solar company retains system ownership and only charges you for the solar energy you use each month.
- Solar loan: This option requires smaller monthly payments for a set time frame and grants you full ownership.
- Solar lease: You can lease the system from the solar provider and make monthly payments for its use. Check out our guide on this option to see if a solar lease is worth it for you.
Nearly half of our survey respondents chose to purchase their solar panel system in full upfront. Roughly 23% chose a solar loan, 11% chose a solar lease, and 17% chose a PPA.
We recommend choosing an installer with a 25-year warranty to ensure full coverage throughout the lifetime of your solar system. Here are the three most common types of warranties and what they cover:
- Manufacturer’s warranty (or product warranty): Protects the individual solar system components in case of defects.
- Workmanship warranty: Covers installation in case of poor workmanship or faulty installation materials.
- Performance (or power production) guarantee: Certifies the solar system’s output as outlined in your contract.
What Is the Cost of Solar Panel Installation in Massachusetts?
We found that an average-sized, 6 kW system in Massachusetts costs around $21,240. This price is higher than the national average of $20,650, but several factors will affect what you pay for your solar panel installation.* These factors include the following:
- Household electrical demand: You may require a larger and more expensive system if your household has high monthly electricity consumption.
- Labor: The labor cost will differ depending on your location and solar provider.
- Panel quality: Considering that more expensive equipment doesn’t always guarantee higher savings is important. The cheapest option may also sacrifice value in the long run, so it’s worth reviewing your options carefully.
- Purchasing option: There are various purchasing options available, including paying with a lump sum, taking out a loan or lease, or entering into a PPA. Each option has advantages and disadvantages and can affect how much you’ll spend in the short and long term.
- System and panel size: The size of your system and panels is the most significant factor in determining your installation cost. The larger the system, the higher the cost.
Use the table below to understand better what going solar in Massachusetts might cost you.
| System Size | Average Cost* | Cost After Incentives |
|---|---|---|
| 5-kW | $17,700 | $12,390 |
| 6-kW | $21,240 | $14,868 |
| 7-kW | $24,780 | $17,346 |
| 8-kW | $28,320 | $19,824 |
Is Solar Worth it in Masachussets?
According to our survey of 1,000 solar homeowners, 95% responded that solar was worth it. If you are in Massachusetts and take advantage of solar incentives, you can expect to make your investment back in a matter of years, depending on how you finance your solar system. Additionally, if you own your solar panels, you will enjoy increased property values.
What Are the Solar Incentives in Massachusetts?
You can save money on solar panels and installation by using Massachusetts’ solar incentives. These tax credits and rebates are available to qualifying system owners as part of the Bay State’s push to make better use of solar energy.
Most solar systems produce more energy than your home needs. Net metering programs allow solar system owners to sell this excess energy to their electric company for utility bill credits. Eversource and National Grid are the two main utility companies participating in Massachusetts net metering.
This program allows you to receive payments from your utility company for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of solar power you generate for 10 years. Program payment rates vary based on your location.
Owners or tenants of a residential property located in the commonwealth who aren’t a dependent of another taxpayer and who occupy the property as their primary residence are eligible for a 15% state tax credit on purchased residential solar systems.
Massachusetts doesn’t make system owners pay property tax on the additional value solar panels they add to their homes.
This exemption prevents you from paying the state’s 6.25% sales tax on your solar panel system.
Are There Solar Regulations in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts has regulations on solar energy installations. These regulations affect permitting, interconnection, net metering, and incentives for solar energy systems. Massachusetts has proactively promoted solar energy adoption through multiple policies and programs, including the SMART program, which provides incentives for solar installations.
A vital regulation that helps you is Massachusetts’ solar easement laws, sometimes called solar access laws. These laws help facilitate and protect private solar access and aim to prevent shading or obstruction from neighboring properties to enable successful solar energy generation. The laws provide a legal basis for you to enforce solar easements. For example, a homeowners association (HOA) can’t prevent you from installing solar panels through these laws.
However, regulations can evolve, so checking the latest updates from official sources such as the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) or relevant local authorities is essential to ensure compliance with current regulations before planning a solar installation project.
What Should You Look For in a Solar Company?
Remember the following factors when comparing potential Massachusetts solar installers:
Availability
Various companies provide different coverage areas, meaning a company may only cover a few specific cities even if listed for full state coverage. Therefore, it’s essential to verify the coverage area of any potential company and ensure that it includes your city or zip code. Additionally, it’s advisable to check with the company regarding its installer’s locations to guarantee that they offer local services.
Customer Reviews
To find a reputable solar installer you should check online reviews from reputable websites such as BBB, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews. It’s important to read both positive and negative reviews to get an idea about the experiences of current and former customers. Pay attention to the details about customer support, panel quality, installation, repairs, and warranty claims. Positive customer reviews was the leading reason our survey takers chose the solar company they went with.
Financing Options
Consider choosing solar companies that allow you to pay for your solar system up-front or have loan options. These financing methods offer the best return on investment and the shortest solar payback period. You may also qualify for federal and state solar incentives by choosing these financing options. Remember that solar leases and PPAs may not have the same financial advantages as the panels remain under the solar company’s name.
Solar Brands
The solar panel brands available differ among installers. Some companies provide well-known solar products, while others limit their offerings to in-house panels. The highest quality solar panels for homes deliver optimal power production and energy savings potential. Compare product catalogs of different solar installers to find the right solar panel that suits your needs and budget.
Warranty
Investing in a solar company that offers a 25-year equipment warranty is highly recommended. Solar panels typically have an average life span of 25 years, and a warranty covering that time frame ensures you’re protected. You should also look out for those that offer a 25-year manufacturer (or product) and workmanship coverage. Additionally, some companies provide power performance warranties that guarantee panel performance for a specific time frame. Your panels will remain in excellent condition throughout the entire warranty period.
Years of Experience
According to professional installers we’ve talked to, choosing solar companies that have been in the industry for at least 10 years is ideal. However, you should also consider companies with extensive business experience, even if they’re new to solar. This is because some established companies often acquire existing solar companies to enter the industry. Inevitably, it’s important to look for a proven track record of reliability and longevity, as this will provide peace of mind for the future.
What Questions Should You Ask a Solar Installer?
There are over a dozen questions you can ask a solar installer to ensure its team is right for the job. Here’s a list of questions you should ask:
Certification and Qualifications
- Are you a NABCEP-certified installer or do you work with certificated installers?
- Do you have or work with master electricians?
- What official licenses and insurance do you have? What about your subcontractors?
Services and Support
- Do you assist with solar tax incentive research and applications?
- What additional solar services do you offer? What’s included in my contract? What services do you offer at cost?
- Does your company use in-house installers or third-party contractors?
- Do you have examples of local solar projects and reviews from your current customers?
- What is the condition of my roof? Will I need additional repairs or upgrades completed before installing solar panels? What about extra services such as tree removal or electrical upgrades?
Financing, Savings, and Warranties
- What financing options do you offer? Do you offer financing directly through your company or specific lenders?
- What is my estimated solar savings and solar payback period?
- What warranties come with my panels? What guarantees are included for roof leaks, panel performance, or other solar-related coverage?
How Can You Save Money on Solar?
We found that most Massachusetts residents pay $3.54 per watt for a solar panel system, which is well above the national average of $2.66.* Using solar energy in your Massachusetts home will be more cost-effective even though you’ll still spend a lot up-front.
Below are some tips that can help you make the most out of your investment:
- Choose the right financing options: Take a look at the financing options offered by various solar companies. This includes the financing terms, initial payments, interest rates, and lender choices. Choose the most cost-effective option for your budget. However, we recommend considering a full purchase and a solar loan instead of leasing or a PPA. These options will yield higher long-term savings.
- Compare solar equipment: Review the equipment details listed in each solar installer’s quote, such as the number of panels required for installation and any additional solar components. Compare your options and choose the best panels for your energy needs. Investing in high-efficiency panels is ideal, but if your home energy needs are low, you don’t need that much power production.
- Get multiple quotes: You should get quotes from at least three providers. Your quotes should include potential savings estimates, solar equipment, payback period, and warranty coverage.
- Take advantage of solar incentives: Use federal and state solar incentives to help reduce investment costs. We discovered that some programs in Massachusetts require lengthy paperwork and approvals, so take your time to read all qualifications and make a note of any deadlines. Roughly 76% of our survey takers took advantage of solar incentives.
What Should You Expect During a Solar Installation?
This involves an in-person or virtual meeting with a solar provider to discuss your energy usage and savings potential. You should have a recent electricity bill on hand to help estimate system size and electricity offset.
The company surveys your roof to check structural integrity, shade, and space and identify any electrical upgrades needed. This informs your system’s design.
The provider uses site survey data to design a custom system for your roof and energy needs. After you sign the paperwork, the company files permits with local authorities. Permit approval often takes two to four weeks.
Crews deliver equipment and install the solar panels and electrical components. The installation typically takes one to two days for most homes.
The system is inspected by local officials to ensure it meets codes and approved designs. This final approval takes two to four weeks on average.
This involves a final utility approval. Your system will then switch on and start offsetting your electricity costs.
Which Solar Company Should You Choose?
We recommend Freedom Solar to Massachusetts homeowners due to their highly efficient panels and strong installation process. Momentum might be for you if you’re mainly concerned about customer service and using all available local incentive programs.
Do careful research before deciding which provider to hire. Look at warranties, installation options, customer support availability, and customer reviews. We also suggest getting a quote from at least three companies to compare pricing.
Other Massachusetts Home Service Resources
FAQ About Solar Companies in Massachusetts
Do solar panels increase home value in Massachusetts?
A solar energy system can increase the overall value of your home. The installation is viewed the same as upgrades like kitchen expansions, finished basements and updated bathroom fixtures. According to a 2015 study by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, solar increased the value of a home by an average of $15,000.
However, that increase only applies to homeowners that own their solar systems. Leasing a system or using a PPA will actually decrease the value of your home in Massachusetts by 3%–8%.
Does Massachusetts have a solar tax credit?
Yes. You can receive a 15% credit on the final cost of your solar installation to offset your income taxes, limited to a $1,000 state tax reduction when you purchase a new home solar system in Massachusetts. This is in addition to the federal solar tax credit.
How do I choose a solar company in Massachusetts?
Compare multiple providers’ product selections, warranties, costs, reviews, years of experience, installation processes, and availability to help you choose the right Massachusetts solar company. Our guide ranks and rates the top solar companies in Massachusetts and provides more tips for finding the right company for you.
Can an HOA restrict solar panels in Massachusetts?
No. Thanks to Massachusetts’ solar access laws, you can legally prevent HOAs from imposing regulations that prohibit solar power systems or impose unreasonable limitations.
Our Rating Methodology
We are committed to providing comprehensive and unbiased reviews to our readers. After over a thousand hours of research on solar companies, interviews with experts, and common customer needs, we’ve created a detailed rating system for solar providers based on six factors:
- Solar equipment, installation, and services (25%)
- Warranty and performance guarantees (25%)
- Brand reputation and certifications (15%)
- Financing options (15%)
- Experience (10%)
- Availability (10%)
Total scores are divided by 20 for a final 5-point rating scale.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
