Find the Best Solar Companies in Boston, MA

How to choose a solar company in Boston

The renewable energy industry has blossomed over the last 20 years and Massachusetts ranks 8th overall in cumulative solar production, nationwide. In the densely populated Boston area, solar energy companies are no longer a “new thing” and consumers have the power to choose between a multitude of providers to fit their unique installation demands.

Before you choose a solar company in Boston, it is important to know whether you are looking to purchase or lease a system. While solar leases or PPA agreements can help homeowners save money on electricity bills immediately, outright and financing purchases typically help utility consumers save the most over time. When purchasing or financing a solar panel installation, homeowners should know whether or not they will qualify for tax credits to help reduce the total cost of a system.

As you evaluate solar companies in Boston, look for longevity, personal recommendations, certifications and positive online reviews. If the company has been around for a while, it is more likely that it will be available for the multi-decade lifespan of your solar energy system. Likewise, companies that have NABCEP and local solar certifications (or only use reputable installation contractors) are more likely to provide a high-quality installation and customer experience.

While making your decision, price is not the only factor that should be considered. Pay close attention to contract terms, warranty periods and production guarantees. By working with a company that offers warrantied maintenance service and parts replacement, homeowners can save thousands of dollars down the line on costly repairs.

Types of solar energy in Boston

The Boston solar energy scene offers everything from handheld devices to commercial power developers, so it can be tough to know which option is best for you. If you’re looking to save money on your electricity bills with a rooftop or backyard solar energy system, make sure that you search for residential photovoltaic (PV) or electric solar panel installations.

Within the realm of residential solar panel installations, there are essentially three main options: grid-tied, off-grid, and hybrid. Since it saves the most money upfront and takes advantage of local net metering, grid-tied is the most popular option for residential solar. By adding backup battery storage, homes can go completely “off-grid” with a large enough electricity reserve or “hybrid,” which uses a combination of grid and battery power.

In instances where solar panels cannot be installed on your property, community solar farms with virtual purchase power agreements let you buy solar energy from a third-party source near Boston.

How much does solar cost in Boston?

For Boston homeowners, the average solar energy system will cost between $12,000 and $36,000, depending on its size, components and features. Using research from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, independent studies and real-world data from installer sources, we’ve put together the average costs of some of the Boston area’s largest companies below.

If you’re looking for an estimate from a local or national installer, we encourage you to contact them personally and compare quotes from a handful of these green businesses.

Expected Solar Rates

As residential solar energy is a highly personalized industry, the price of your installation is almost always going to be different than your neighbors’. Solar energy systems are designed to offset a property’s unique electric demand based on consumer variables like available roof space, mounting materials required and bonus system parts like solar backup batteries, electric panel upgrades and EV chargers.

In Massachusetts, electricity rates are among the highest in the country, which is why alternative energy sources often help homeowners recap a $20,000+ investment in less than a decade. Individual homeowner payback periods will vary, and going solar is most financially feasible for those who qualify for the federal tax credit and cash in on local incentives.

While the cost of solar energy in Boston may seem high, it is important to remember that direct system ownership allows homeowners to essentially purchase 25 years of electricity production at once. As such, prospective buyers should pay attention to not only system size and estimated production, but also financing options, interest rates and expected payback periods.

Boston solar energy FAQ

How many solar panels are needed to power a house in Boston?

On average, homes need approximately 20 to 24 solar panels to offset their electricity use for an entire year, with an average total system capacity of 5 kW. As total production depends on solar panel wattage, 20 to 24 high-efficiency solar panels can equate to systems between 4 KW and 8 kW in Boston sunlight conditions.

Do you really save money with solar panels?

You save money with solar panels if you are replacing utility energy with solar electricity at a lower cost. While solar leases can help you reduce the cost of your electricity immediately, homeowners can save the most by purchasing or financing a system. After the cost of the system has “paid for itself” against utility bills avoided, homeowners save money as their system continues to produce electricity.

Can I install my own solar panels?

Yes, if you are off the grid, on a boat, or in an RV, you can install your own solar panels, even with limited experience. However, if you are planning to take advantage of net metering and feed your excess electricity into the power grid, both utility and city approval are necessary before and after an installation. This often creates the need for a master electrician and professional documents and licensing.

What is the primary type of solar panel for residential properties?

Photovoltaic (PV). These solar panels use polycrystalline and monocrystalline technologies to generate electricity. Monocrystalline (mono) solar panels are typically more expensive and efficient than polycrystalline (poly) panels, but both are high-efficiency technologies and work well when combined.

Can you get solar panels for free?

Yes, it is possible to get solar panels for free, but only in rare cases. While there are some programs that help underprivileged or underserved communities get access to free solar panels, homeowners should be skeptical about any “free solar panel” offers. With that said, solar lease agreements and financing agreements often come with zero money down options.