As the world shifts towards renewable energy sources and sustainable solutions, Massachusetts is taking the lead in solar panel installations. This article is intended to inform residents of the Bay State about the latest pricing and companies in the solar installation industry. We'll look at the current costs and expectations for 2023, as well as a list of reputable providers in the area. We'll also explain why solar is becoming an increasingly attractive option for Massachusetts residents and businesses. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision when it comes to exploring solar panel installations in your own home or business.
What Are the Best Solar Companies in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is home to numerous solar companies with varying services and pricing. Below, we’ve curated a list of the five best solar companies in the area, along with brief information about the companies, why they were chosen, pros and cons of their services, and more. Read on to find out what the best solar companies are in Massachusetts.
1. Sunrun:
Overview: Sunrun is one of the largest residential solar providers in the United States and offer rooftop and ground-mount solar solutions for homes, businesses, and schools. They also offer home battery storage options for those interested in energy independence.
Why We Picked It: Sunrun offers a range of services and financing options to suite any budget that make it a great option for those looking to invest in solar energy. Plus, Sunrun offers an industry standard 20 year warranty to provide customers with peace of mind.
Pros & Cons: The benefits of Sunrun include their excellent customer service, comprehensive warranties, and various financing options. The downside is that they require a minimum credit score of 620 to qualify, and some customers may find their prices too high.
2. Vivint Solar:
Overview: Vivint Solar is a full-service residential solar company offering installation, financing, monitoring, and maintenance services. They provide up of 25-year warranties, 0% down financing options, and have earned an A+ rating from The Better Business Bureau.
Why We Picked It: Vivint Solar’s strong reputation and no-money down financing option make them an attractive option for those looking to go solar. Plus, their 25-year warranties provide customers with peace of mind that their investment is secure.
Pros & Cons: Vivint Solar’s biggest benefit is their extensive warranty and financing options. The downside is that they have high upfront equipment costs and customers may find their prices too expensive.
3. SolarCity:
Overview: SolarCity is one of the largest and most established solar energy companies in the U.S. They offer complete solar installation, from the selection of the solar panels to the installation and monitoring of the system. They also offer 0% financing options.
Why We Picked It: SolarCity’s comprehensive services and commitment to customer satisfaction make them a great option for those looking to go solar. Plus, their 25-year warranties provide customers with peace of mind that their investment is secure.
Pros & Cons: SolarCity’s biggest benefit is their comprehensive services and no money down financing options. The downside is that customers may find their prices to be expensive, and their customer service is not as responsive as other solar companies.
4. SunPower:
Overview: SunPower has been in the solar industry for over 35 years and is a leader in the field. They offer residential, commercial and utility-scale solar solutions, as well as home battery storage. SunPower also provides a 25-year warranty on their panels.
Why We Picked It: SunPower’s reputation as one of the best solar companies in the industry makes them a great option for those looking to go solar. Plus, their 25-year warranties provide customers with peace of mind that their investment is secure.
Pros & Cons: SunPower’s biggest benefit is their industry-leading warranties and comprehensive services. The downside is that customers may find their prices too expensive, and their customer service can be difficult to reach.
5. Sungevity:
Overview: Sungevity is a residential solar energy company that offers solar installation for homes and businesses. They have a range of financing options, including 0% down financing, and offer a 25-year warranty on their panels.
Why We Picked It: Sungevity’s no-money down financing option and 25-year warranty make them an attractive option for those looking to go solar. Plus, they offer a range of services to meet the needs of any customer.
Pros & Cons: Sungevity’s biggest benefit is their extensive warranties and no money down financing options. The downside is that customers may find their prices too high, and their customer service can be slow to respond.
These are five of the best solar companies in Massachusetts. Each offer different services and financing options, so be sure to do your research before committing to any one company. With the right research and planning, you can find the solar provider that works best for you.
Compare Massachusetts' Top-Rated Solar Providers
For residents of Massachusetts looking to install a solar panel system, there are numerous solar providers vying for your business. To help narrow down your search, this article offers an overview of 10 of the top solar panel providers in Massachusetts, including a comparison table with key features and ratings for each one.
Solar Providers in Massachusetts
1. Sunrun: Sunrun is one of the largest and most established solar panel providers in Massachusetts with over 17 years of experience. They offer a range of residential, commercial, and government solar panel solutions, and they have an A- rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their average cost is $$–$$$$$ and they offer up to 25-year warranties. Sunrun offers a range of financing options, including leases, loan, and power purchase agreements. They are accredited by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).2. SunPower: SunPower is another well known solar panel provider in Massachusetts with a long history in the industry. They offer a range of solar panel solutions for both residential and commercial customers. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their average cost is $$–$$$$$ and their warranties range from 10 to 25 years. SunPower also offers a range of financing options and they are accredited by NABCEP.
3. Tesla: Tesla is a popular solar panel provider in Massachusetts, and their sleek design and industry-leading technology make them a popular choice for homeowners. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their average cost is $$–$$$$$ and their warranties range from 10 to 25 years. Tesla offers a range of financing options, including leases and loan programs. They are accredited by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).
4. Vivint: Vivint is an established solar panel provider in Massachusetts, and they offer a range of solutions for residential and commercial customers. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their average cost is $$–$$$$$ and their warranties range from 10 to 25 years. Vivint offers a range of financing options, including leases and loan programs. They are accredited by NABCEP and SEIA.
5. Sungevity: Sungevity is a well-known solar panel provider in Massachusetts with over 10 years of experience in the industry. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their average cost is $$–$$$$$ and their warranties range from 10 to 25 years. Sungevity offers lease and loan financing programs, and they are accredited by NABCEP and SEIA.
6. SunCommon: SunCommon is a local solar panel provider based in Massachusetts. They offer a range of residential and commercial solar panel solutions. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their average cost is $$–$$$$$. They offer up to 25-year warranties and they offer lease and loan financing programs. They are accredited by NABCEP and SEIA.
7. Clean Energy Collective: Clean Energy Collective is an experienced solar panel provider in Massachusetts. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their average cost is $$–$$$$$ and their warranties range from 10 to 25 years. Clean Energy Collective offers a range of financing options, including lease and loan programs. They are accredited by NABCEP and SEIA.
8. Borrego Solar: Borrego Solar is an established solar panel provider in Massachusetts. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their average cost is $$–$$$$$ and their warranties range from 10 to 25 years. Borrego Solar offers a range of financing options, including lease and loan programs. They are accredited by NABCEP and SEIA.
9. SolarCity: SolarCity is a popular solar panel provider in Massachusetts with over 15 years of experience in the industry. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their average cost is $$–$$$$, and their warranties range from 10 to 25 years. SolarCity offers a range of financing options, including leases, loan, and power purchase agreements. They are accredited by NABCEP and SEIA.
10. HelioPower: HelioPower is a local solar provider based in Massachusetts. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their average cost is $$–$$$$$ and their warranties range from 10 to 25 years. HelioPower offers a range of financing options, including leases and loan programs. They are accredited by NABCEP and SEIA.
Compare Massachusetts' Top-Rated Solar Providers
The following table compares the 10 top solar providers in Massachusetts on key features and ratings:
| Solar Providers | Superlative | Our Score | Avg Cost ($–$$$$$) | Warranty | Financing Options | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunrun | Leader in Mass. | 9.3/10 | $$–$$$$$ | Up to 25-year | Leases, Loan, PPA | NABCEP |
| SunPower | Customer Service | 9.1/10 | $$–$$$$$ | Up to 25-year | Leases, Loan | NABCEP |
| Tesla | Innovation | 8.9/10 | $$–$$$$$ | Up to 25-year | Leases, Loan | SEIA |
| Vivint | Fast Installation | 8.8/10 | $$–$$$$$ | Up to 25-year | Leases, Loan | NABCEP, SEIA |
| Sungevity | Transparent Pricing | 8.7/10 | $$–$$$$$ | Up to 25-year | Lease, Loan | NABCEP, SEIA |
| SunCommon | Local Knowledge | 8.6/10 | $$–$$$$$ | Up to 25-year | Lease, Loan | NABCEP, SEIA |
| Clean Energy Collective | Environmental Stewardship | 8.4/10 | $$–$$$$$ | Up to 25-year | Lease, Loan | NABCEP, SEIA |
| Borrego Solar | Scalability | 8.3/10 | $$–$$$$$ | Up to 25-year | Lease, Loan | NABCEP, SEIA |
| SolarCity | Flexibility | 8.2/10 | $$–$$$$$ | Up to 25-year | Leases, Loan, PPA | NABCEP, SEIA |
How to Determine Which Solar Panel Installation Company in Massachusetts Is Best for You?
It can be difficult to determine which solar panel installation company in Massachusetts is best for you. There are many factors to consider when selecting a solar panel installation company. Here are twelve criteria to help you make the best decision about which solar panel installation company is the right fit for you:1. Price
Price is always a major factor when it comes to selecting a solar panel installation company. Make sure to compare prices of different companies to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.
2. Quality of Workmanship
When selecting a solar panel installation company, make sure to look at the quality of the workmanship. Get reviews from other customers, and if possible, view a portfolio of the company's previous work. This will help you determine if the solar panel installation company you are considering has a high quality of workmanship.
3. Customer Service
Customer service is very important when selecting a solar panel installation company. Make sure to ask questions and look into what kind of customer service the company offers. This will help you determine if the company is reliable and trustworthy.
4. Reputation
When selecting a solar panel installation company, it is important to consider the company's reputation. Look at reviews from other customers to get an idea of the company's track record. This will help you select a quality company.
5. Services Offered
Make sure to consider the services that the solar panel installation company offers. Some companies may only offer installation services while others may offer additional services such as maintenance and repairs. Knowing the services offered can help you make the best decision about which company is right for you.
6. Warranties
When selecting a solar panel installation company, make sure to consider the warranties offered. Some companies may offer warranties on both the installation and the materials used. This can provide you with peace of mind and help you determine if the company is reliable.
7. Experience
Experience is another important factor when selecting a solar panel installation company. Make sure to look into the company's experience and ask questions about their past projects. This will help you determine if the company has the necessary experience to get the job done right.
8. Financing Options
Financing options are also important when selecting a solar panel installation company. Some companies may offer flexible financing options that can make it easier to pay for the installation. Knowing the financing options available will help you decide if the company is right for you.
9. Location
The location of the solar panel installation company can be important. Make sure to consider the distance and ease of access when selecting a company. This will help you determine if the company is convenient to you.
10. Licensing and Insurance
Make sure to look into the licensing and insurance of the solar panel installation company. This will help you determine if the company is reputable and can provide quality work. It is also important to make sure the company is insured in case of any accidents.
11. Quality of Equipment
When selecting a solar panel installation company, make sure to consider the quality of the equipment they use. Ask questions about the quality of the solar panels and the materials used. This will help you determine if the company is using the highest quality materials and solar panels.
12. Responsiveness
The responsiveness of the solar panel installation company is also important. Make sure to ask questions about the timeline and responsiveness of the company. This will help you determine if the company is reliable and can get the job done in a timely manner.
By considering these twelve criteria, you can make an informed decision about which solar panel installation company in Massachusetts is the best fit for you. With the right research and effort, you can rest assured that you are making the wisest decision and getting the best installation services for your needs.
Top Reasons to Hire a Local Solar Panel Installation Company in Massachusetts
When it comes to deciding on a solar panel installation company in Massachusetts, hiring a local business is often the best option for homeowners. Local companies understand the area’s climate and landscape, and have a lot of experience in choosing the best solutions for each property. Here are the top reasons to hire a local solar panel installation company:
1. Local Solar Panel Companies Understand Local Building Requirements
Local solar installers are familiar with the specific requirements for Massachusetts homes. They know which permits need to be obtained from the local municipality, and understand all local codes and regulations. This helps ensure an efficient and successful installation process and helps to avoid costly mistakes or delays.
2. Local Companies Offer Cost Savings
Local solar panel installers can offer cost savings because they don’t have to drive out of town, and often have lower overhead costs than larger companies. Local installers may also be able to offer packages and discounts that other companies do not. Homeowners should shop around and compare prices to make sure they get the best deal.
3. Local Installers Offer Better Service
Local installers generally go the extra mile for their customers, providing better customer service and support after the sale than larger companies can. Also, local installers may offer more personalized services, such as customized design options and customized warranties.
4. Local Installers Have Experience With Local Weather Conditions
Local installers are familiar with the climate and weather conditions of the area. They know which type of panels are the best for the region and which type of installation is most likely to succeed. This knowledge helps ensure the best return on investment for the homeowner.
5. Local Installers Are More Familiar With Local Utility Companies and Laws
Local installers are more familiar with the rules and regulations of Massachusetts utility companies, which can help speed up the process of setting up the solar panels. This means fewer delays and faster installation times, which can save money and ensure a successful solar panel installation.
6. Local Installers Are More Likely to Use Top Quality Products
Local installers are more likely to use high-quality products such as solar panels, inverters, and other equipment. They are also more likely to use quality installation methods and to provide warranties. This can help ensure a longer-lasting, more efficient system that will save money over the long term.
hiring a local solar panel installation company in Massachusetts is a smart decision for homeowners. Local installers have a better understanding of local building requirements, offer cost savings, provide better service, have experience with local weather conditions, and are more likely to use top-quality products. All of these advantages make it a great choice for anyone considering installing solar panels in Massachusetts.
Average cost of solar panels in Massachusetts
The cost of installing solar panels in Massachusetts can vary wildly depending on a variety of factors, including the type of solar panels chosen, the amount of electricity required, and other factors. On average, however, the cost of a solar panel system for a home in Massachusetts is usually between $7,000 and $10,000. This cost usually includes the cost of the solar panels and installation, as well as the necessary permits and other fees.
When determining the cost of a solar panel system, it’s important to understand the various components that go into the final price. The major components of cost are generally the solar panels themselves, the installation fees, and any applicable permits and fees. The cost of the solar panels will depend on several factors, including the size of the system and the type of solar panel chosen. Installation fees may vary depending on the complexity of the job.
Additionally, there may be permits and fees associated with a solar panel system. These fees can include any applicable building permits, zoning permits, and even fees for connecting the solar panels to the electric grid. It’s important to factor these fees into the total cost of a solar panel system in Massachusetts.
In terms of the actual cost of the solar panels themselves, the prices can vary depending on the type of solar panel chosen. Generally speaking, monocrystalline solar panels tend to cost more than polycrystalline solar panels, and thin-film solar panels tend to cost less than both. However, the exact cost of the panels will depend on the size of the solar panel system needed.
the cost of a solar panel system in Massachusetts can vary significantly depending on a variety of factors, including the type of solar panel chosen and the amount of electricity required. On average, however, the cost of a solar panel system for a home in Massachusetts is usually between $7,000 and $10,000. This cost usually includes the cost of the solar panels and installation, as well as any applicable permits and fees.
Massachusetts Solar Panel Incentives and Rebates
Massachusetts is on the cutting edge of renewable energy production, with an active focus on solar energy. Homeowners in the state can benefit from a number of different incentives and rebates to bring the cost of solar panel installation down. The main types of incentives for solar panel installation include state and local incentives, federal tax credits, and net metering.
State and Local Incentives
The Commonwealth Solar II Grant program provides up to $4,000 in incentives for residential systems of 10 kilowatts or less. Other state and local incentives include the Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program, the Residential Solar Hot Water Rebate Program, and the Green Communities Program. All of these programs give homeowners access to money to lower the cost of solar panel installation.
Federal Tax Credits
The federal government also provides some incentives for homeowners to invest in solar power systems. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows homeowners to deduct up to 26% of the cost of solar panel installation. This is a non-refundable credit, so if the homeowner’s tax bill is lower than the total amount of the credit, they can carry it forward for up to 5 years.
Net Metering
Net metering allows a homeowner to be compensated for the extra energy that their solar panels produce. In Massachusetts, net metering is provided by utility companies and the state sets the rate at which homeowners are compensated for the excess energy. This rate varies based on the size of the solar system, but is generally around 11-12 cents per kilowatt-hour. These savings can add up over time and help to lower the overall cost of solar panel installation.
Massachusetts has an array of incentives and rebates for homeowners looking to install solar panels. With the state and local incentives, federal tax credits, and net metering, homeowners can reduce the cost of solar panel installation and benefit from the savings in the long run. Investing in solar power is a great way to reduce your energy bills and help the environment.
1. What rebates and incentives are available for solar panel installation in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, there are a number of rebates and incentives available for solar panel installation. The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) offers the Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit, which can provide a 25% credit up to $1,000 for a solar panel installation. Additionally, the Residential Solar Electric Program (SREC) is available through MassCEC, which provides a $1,000-$2,000 rebate for a solar panel system. Additionally, the Mass Save® HEAT Loan Program can provide up to $25,000 in financing for a solar panel installation.
Additionally, the Solarize Mass program is offered through MassCEC, which can provide discounts on solar panel systems in various communities throughout Massachusetts. Furthermore, a number of utilities offer solar incentives, such as National Grid’s Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) program, which offers a $.25/kWh incentive for a solar panel system. Lastly, the Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC) program is available to homeowners who install solar panels, which provides an additional revenue stream from the sale of renewable energy credits.
These are just a few of the various incentives and rebates available for solar panel installation in Massachusetts. For more detailed information about available incentives, it is recommended to speak with a qualified solar installer to determine the best options for your specific situation.
2. Are there any local solar panel installation companies based in Massachusetts?
Yes, there are a number of local solar panel installation companies based in Massachusetts. Some of these companies include Solar Design Associates, Helion Energy, SolarCity, SunBug Solar, GoodKarma Solar Solutions, Aegis Solar Energy, SunCommon, RevoluSun, SolarFlair Energy, and Sunlight Solar. Each of these companies offer a variety of services, from installation and design to maintenance and consulting. They also have a range of financing and incentive options available to help make the transition to renewable energy more affordable for homeowners.
Solar Design AssociatesSolar Design Associates is a full-service solar design and engineering firm based in Massachusetts. They specialize in residential and commercial photovoltaic systems. Their services include system design, permitting and installation. They also offer various financing and incentives to help make solar energy more accessible.
Helion EnergyHelion Energy is a system integrator and installer of solar energy systems for both residential and commercial customers. They offer a variety of services from design and installation to maintenance and financing. They are also dedicated to helping customers find all of the incentives available to make their investment in solar energy more affordable.
SolarCitySolarCity is one of the largest installers of solar energy systems in the US. They offer a variety of services from system design and installation to monitoring and maintenance. They also offer a range of financing and incentive options that can help make solar energy more affordable for homeowners.
SunBug SolarSunBug Solar is a solar energy company based in Massachusetts. They provide a range of services from design and installation to monitoring and maintenance. They also offer a variety of financing and incentive options to help make solar energy more accessible for homeowners.
GoodKarma Solar SolutionsGoodKarma Solar Solutions is a full-service solar installer based in Massachusetts. They specialize in residential and commercial solar systems. They offer a range of services from system design and installation to monitoring and maintenance. They also offer various financing and incentives to help make solar energy more affordable.
3. What types of solar panel systems are offered in Massachusetts?
Types of Solar Panel Systems Offered in Massachusetts
Massachusetts offers a variety of solar panel technology options to meet its energy needs. These solutions range from rooftop solar, ground-mounted solar, community solar and more. Here are some of the different types of solar panel systems offered in Massachusetts:1. Rooftop Solar: Rooftop solar systems are mounted onto a home or building’s roof and are typically the most common form of solar installation in the state.
2. Ground-Mounted Solar: Ground-mounted solar panel systems are installed directly into the ground, either on an existing structure or on specially-made frames.
3. Community Solar: Community solar is a type of renewable energy program that allows customers to subscribe to a solar farm and receive credits on their energy bill for the energy produced by the system.
4. Solar Carports: Solar carports are solar panel systems that are installed on the tops of parking lots, providing shade for the cars underneath and producing electricity.
5. Solar Hot Water: Solar hot water systems use energy from the sun to heat water which can then be used for showers, laundry, and other household tasks.
6. Solar + Storage: Solar panel systems with energy storage capabilities are becoming increasingly popular in Massachusetts. These systems allow homeowners to store excess solar energy during daytime hours and use it at night, which reduces energy costs.
there are many different types of solar panel systems that can be used in Massachusetts. From rooftop solar to ground-mounted to community solar and beyond, Massachusetts has a variety of solar energy options available to homeowners and businesses.
4. What are the estimated costs for solar panel installation in Massachusetts?
The costs of installing solar panels in Massachusetts vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the system, the type of solar cells used, and the amount of energy that the system is expected to produce. Generally, most homeowners in Massachusetts can expect to pay somewhere between $10,000 and $15,000 for a 5-kW solar panel system. That includes installation costs and other associated fees.
When planning to install solar panels, many homeowners in Massachusetts are eligible for government incentives such as the Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) program. This program helps offset installation costs by providing a rebate of up to $1,000 per kilowatt of installed capacity. This incentive program is in effect from 2020 to 2032, and could potentially reduce the overall cost of installation by up to 20%.
Additionally, Massachusetts offers a generous tax credit for solar panel installation. Homeowners can receive up to $1,000 for each kilowatt of installed solar capacity up to a maximum of $2,000. This credit may reduce the overall cost of installation by up to 30%.
the estimated costs for solar panel installation in Massachusetts vary greatly depending on the size and type of system. The government incentives and tax credits available may help to reduce the overall cost, making solar energy more accessible to homeowners.
5. Does Massachusetts have a Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC) program?
Yes, Massachusetts does have a Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC) program.
What is a Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC) program?
A Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC) program is designed to incentivize the installation and generation of solar energy by homeowners and businesses. It works by creating tradable credits that are issued for each megawatt hour (MWh) of solar energy generated. These credits can be sold to utilities, which must comply with their state’s renewable energy requirements. This provides a financial incentive for homeowners and businesses to invest in solar energy technology, ultimately helping to reduce carbon emissions and creating a cleaner energy grid.
How does Massachusetts' SREC program work?
The Massachusetts SREC program is designed to encourage the generation of solar energy by residential and small business customers. For each megawatt hour (MWh) of solar energy that is generated, a Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC) is created. These SRECs are then traded in a market, and utilities can purchase the certificates to meet their renewable energy requirements. Homeowners and businesses can sell their SRECs to utilities, providing a financial incentive for investing in solar energy technology.
What are the benefits of Massachusetts' SREC program?
The Massachusetts SREC program provides a financial incentive for homeowners and businesses to invest in solar energy technology. It encourages the generation of clean energy by rewarding homeowners and businesses for generating solar energy. This helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to a cleaner energy grid for the state. Additionally, it creates a new market for renewable energy, providing economic benefits for the solar energy industry.
The future of Massachusetts' solar panel installations is looking bright. With the passage of the state's Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) program, solar installations are set to increase throughout the state. As the cost of solar panels continues to decrease, more Massachusetts residents will be able to take advantage of the financial and environmental benefits of using solar energy. With incentives like SMART, the industry is expected to continue to grow and provide more options for those looking to save money and reduce their carbon footprint. With the right incentives and the continued advancement of solar technology, Massachusetts could become a leading state in solar panel installations and the industry as a whole.
