7 Best Solar Companies in Massachusetts
There are many solar companies in Massachusetts, but choosing the right one for your solar panel installation is not always easy. The best solar installers in Massachusetts offer great customer service, fair prices, and high-quality equipment from brands known for their efficiency. With rising electricity costs, switching to solar energy makes more sense than ever.
You want to ensure you get the proper support for your solar panel installation, so we’ve put together a list of the best solar companies available in Massachusetts. We looked at reviews, years of experience, warranties, equipment, and more to find the best companies and make it easier for you to do research on solar energy.
Massachusetts’s Top 7 Solar Energy Companies:
- Sunrun: Best National Provider
- ACE Solar: Best for Customization
- Palmetto Solar: Best Customer Service
- Momentum Solar: Most User-Friendly
- Boston Solar: Best Local Installer
- SunPower: Best Technology
- Trinity Solar: Best Family-Owned Installer
Take the Homeowner Quiz to Find Out the Cost of Solar Panel Installation for Your Home
Massachusetts’ Top 7 Solar Energy Companies
Sunrun
Founded in 2007, Sunrun has become one of the nation’s top solar energy companies. Sunrun works in more than 20 states and territories in the US, including Massachusetts. They provide customers several options for financing and leasing; Sunrun handles the whole process of installing solar panels, from figuring out the size of the system to helping customers find tax incentives.
They offer several solar panel systems, such as battery storage technology like the Tesla Powerwall. These products come with good warranties. The company's designs can be changed to fit each property, and has several different brands of solar energy equipment.
Pros:
- Offers several leading solar energy products from suppliers like Costco and LONGi
- Several financing and leasing options available
- Provides real-time system monitoring
Cons:
- Some customers report negative interactions with customer service and the sales department
- Expensive labor
Bottom Line:
Sunrun is a great option for homeowners looking for flexible financing or leasing options. Although Sunrun has some negative customer reviews, most customers have had positive experiences.
Cost, Warranty & Services
Sunrun offers flexible financing and leasing options, including $0 down payment plans. Sunrun also provides a 10-year comprehensive warranty for purchased and leased systems. Depending on the equipment and whether or not it is bought or leased, there may be other warranty options.
Average Cost
Sunrun estimates that most solar systems can cost between $15,000 and $29,000, but the total amount depends on power consumption and home size. Sunrun will send a technician to review plans and create a quote with specific costs for your project.
Warranty
The Sunrun Guarantee covers purchased and leased solar energy systems. This 10-year comprehensive warranty covers parts, labor, and roof penetrations. Sunrun's products may also come with equipment warranties that last anywhere from 12 to 25 years, depending on the service area and the equipment manufacturer. Sunrun's advisors are the best people to talk to about the details of your solar project's warranty coverage.
Solar Services
Sunrun services all of Massachusetts. They offer customized solar equipment designs, installations, permitting, and powering up. They also have a range of products, including the Tesla Powerwall and its own battery backup system.
Financing Options
Sunrun offers purchase and lease options, either paid in full or monthly. Sunrun's advisors will go over the details during the consultation, but the monthly lease and purchase options require $0 to a small down payment.
Specials or Incentives Offered
Sunrun doesn't advertise any specific deals or incentives, but homeowners in Massachusetts can get a number of tax credits or rebates for installing solar panels, including the federal solar tax credit. Most of the time, residents who lease their solar energy systems can't get these, but your electric utility company or Sunrun may be able to help you get other incentives.
In-House or Contracted Installations
It’s more likely that Sunrun uses contractors for installations in Massachusetts. Most solar installations are done by certified installers that Sunrun works with, but in some states, the company may have its own teams.
Brands of Solar Equipment Offered
Sunrun uses high-efficiency monocrystalline panels from solar suppliers like Costco and Longi. They also offer the Brightbox Home Battery Storage and the Tesla Powerwall for home energy backups.
Customer Reviews
Sunrun has had an "A-" rating with the BBB since 2009. With over 2,600 reviews, customers rate Sunrun 4 out of 5 stars on average. Most of the bad reviews say that the sales team was pushy and that the consultation process wasn't clear, but most people have had good experiences working with the solar company.
Partnerships
Sunrun has partnerships with Massachusetts-certified solar installers. Sunrun has its own technology for storing energy in batteries, and it works with Tesla Powerwall to make it better. Sunrun is also a Solar Energy Industries Association-certified solar company.
ACE Solar
ACE Solar is one of the best solar companies in Massachusetts, and its main office is in North Andover. They work with people and businesses all over the Northeast. In Massachusetts, they serve people from the North Shore, MetroWest, Cape, and Mendon. They only started their business in 2015, but for the past six years, they have been ranked as the number one solar EPC contractor in Massachusetts.
Although their products are on the expensive side, they have strong customer reviews and satisfaction to back their work. And since they’re locally owned and operated, they tend to have more experience with Massachusetts government and utility company solar incentives.
Pros:
- Award-winning company with excellent customer service
- Experience with local and state solar incentives
- Custom designs for residential properties and businesses
Cons:
- Undisclosed equipment and workmanship warranty
- Limited information about pricing
Bottom Line:
Massachusetts residents are lucky to have ACE Solar as a local solar installer. But their website needs more information about prices and guarantees, and some people have said that their work costs more.
Cost, Warranty & Services
ACE Solar offers a variety of financing and purchase options, both in-house and through state solar loans, leases, and power purchase agreements (PPAs). But their website doesn't list all of the options, estimated costs, or warranty details, so it's best to talk to an ACE solar advisor.
Average Cost
Solar panel installations vary in cost depending on electricity consumption and property size. Most people in Massachusetts should expect to pay between $15,000 and over $25,000, but an ACE solar specialist will confirm the exact cost after figuring out what the project needs.
Warranty
ACE Solar doesn't say what their equipment and work warranty is, but most equipment warranties last up to 25 years, which is about how long solar panels last on average. The best way to find out about ACE Solar's warranty is to contact them directly. It depends on the type of equipment and how you buy it.
Solar Services
ACE Solar works in several states in the Northeast, including Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Maine. Massachusetts residents have access to a range of solar energy products, and the solar company works with residential and commercial projects. They also do solar work for rooftops, ground-mounted projects, and canopies.
Financing Options
ACE Solar advertises financing and leasing options for solar energy projects on its website. Residents of Massachusetts may also be able to get financing through SMART, which stands for Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target. But an ACE Solar consultant will talk to you about your project's exact loan, purchase, and lease options.
Specials or Incentives Offered
Other than a $250 referral program, ACE Solar's website doesn't list any current deals or incentives. But if you live in Massachusetts, the state or your local utility company may offer special financing, a rebate, or a tax credit incentive program. It’s important to note that leased solar panels may not qualify for tax credits.
In-House or Contracted Installations
ACE Solar does not mention if they use contracted installers for their solar projects, so it’s likely that the company mostly handles projects in-house.
Brands of Solar Equipment Offered
Third-party reviews say that LG solar panels and SolarEdge solar inverters, which are used by ACE Solar, are some of the most energy-efficient equipment on the market. However, because ACE Solar offers several services, they may have other brands of solar equipment depending on the project. It’s best to speak with them directly to learn what solar equipment they use.
Customer Reviews
The BBB gives ACE Solar an “A+” rating and accreditation, but the company doesn’t have many customer reviews compared to the other best solar companies in Massachusetts. However, ACE Solar has been ranked as the #1 residential and commercial solar contractor in Massachusetts for six years in a row by Solar Power World magazine.
Partnerships
ACE Solar works with customers throughout the Northeast region, primarily in Massachusetts. They work with both residential and business clients. Their solar professionals and electricians have certificates from the NABCEP, which is one of many awards and credentials they have.
Palmetto Solar
Palmetto Solar was started in 2010 and now has offices in Massachusetts and 24 other states. They are one of the best solar installers in the country, and they sell a variety of solar energy products to homeowners, such as battery storage systems for when the power goes out. They say that installing solar panels can cost as little as $85 a month for people in Massachusetts, and they take care of the whole process, from design to inspection.
Palmetto Solar is a national company, so the contractors they use and the quality of their work may differ from one state to the next. Still, they boast an “A+” rating on BBB and have a full-service, dedicated customer support team.
Pros:
- Offers a 12-year product warranty and 25-year performance/output guarantee
- Provides a solar savings calculator on their website
- Has additional protection plans available with discounts
Cons:
- Doesn’t disclose exact financing information until the consultation process
- Contractor quality may vary depending on the area
Bottom Line:
Palmetto Solar is quickly growing as one of the nation’s leading solar companies, and Massachusetts residents can count on full support from start to finish. However, Palmetto Solar’s website lacks clear information on solar energy equipment brands and financing.
Cost, Warranty & Services
Palmetto Solar says that solar panels can be bought for as little as $85 per month, but it doesn't say how long the loan is or what other buying or leasing options are available. They also have a range of other solar products available, like battery storage technology. Palmetto Solar backs its installations with a 12-year product warranty and a 25-year performance warranty, one of the best in the industry.
Average Cost
Palmetto Solar doesn’t quote average costs since every project will vary. They do, however, have a cost and savings calculator on their website for people in Massachusetts. Installing solar panels usually costs between $15,000 and $25,000, depending on how much electricity the property uses, how big it is, and how much power the owner wants.
Warranty
Palmetto Solar backs its installations with a 12-year product warranty and a 25-year linear performance guarantee, which is also called an output warranty. Their solar installations also come with three years of Palmetto Protect coverage, which includes system monitoring, reporting, service, and support. However, customers must purchase additional coverage to extend these benefits beyond three years.
Solar Services
Palmetto Solar offers consultation and installation services in several states, including Massachusetts. Their team oversees the complete process of design, permits, and diagnostics for residential properties. Palmetto Solar also offers services like installing battery storage, cleaning solar panels, and getting rid of pests.
Financing Options
If you live in Massachusetts and want to finance through Palmetto Solar, you will need to talk to an advisor to find out what your options are. On its website, the solar company doesn't say exactly how financing works, but it does say that monthly payments start at $85. Furthermore, Massachusetts residents may qualify for the state’s HEAT loan program, which offers financing up to $25,000.
Specials or Incentives Offered
Palmetto Solar's website doesn't list any ongoing specials or incentives, but residents of Massachusetts can still get federal and state solar tax credits and incentive programs to help lower the initial costs of installation.
In-House or Contracted Installations
Palmetto Solar is a national solar company, so it hires local contractors to do installations. But Palmetto Solar has customer service and project management teams that work in-house and are available for the whole project.
Brands of Solar Equipment Offered
Palmetto Solar uses different solar equipment for each project and location, but they say they use solid black premium panels with a power rating between 395 and 405 watts and an efficiency of more than 19.8%.
Customer Reviews
The BBB gives Palmetto Solar an “A+” rating and accreditation, and over 160 customers rate the company 4 out of 5 stars on average. Most of the reviews were positive, and the ones that weren't said that there were long wait times and project delays, which were mostly fixed.
Partnerships
Palmetto Solar has several partnerships in 25 states, including Massachusetts. However, not all services and equipment partners will be available to homeowners in every region, so it’s best to speak with an advisor from Palmetto Solar to learn about their partnerships in your area.
Momentum Solar
Momentum Solar is a New Jersey-based solar company founded in 2009. Today, they do business in 11 states, including Massachusetts, and offer a full line of solar products and easy-to-use tools. Momentum Solar has a mobile app that allows homeowners to monitor their project’s progress and system production data, making it easy to follow the process and receive updates.
Also, they have plans to buy, rent, or finance, but a Momentum specialist will talk to you about the specifics during the planning process. But even though Momentum Solar has great solar services, its customer reviews aren't as good as those of the best solar companies in Massachusetts.
Pros:
- Offers information and assistance with Massachusetts solar and federal tax credit enrollment
- Has one of the best user-friendly interfaces and experiences on the market
- Uses high-efficiency Tier 1-rated solar panels
Cons:
- Some negative customer reviews
- Doesn’t provide clear pricing or financing information online
Bottom Line:
Momentum Solar has one of the most user-friendly and efficient solar systems available, but its customers’ experiences haven’t always been positive in some areas.
Cost, Warranty & Services
Momentum Solar, like many other solar companies, doesn't list prices on its website. Instead, the price is set after the initial consultation with a company representative. They do offer a competitive 25-year warranty, but depending on the purchase plan, the maintenance options may be different. Momentum also partners with Enphase to offer battery backup systems.
Average Cost
Momentum Solar doesn't give out average prices for solar installations in Massachusetts because the size, equipment, and amount of electricity each project makes are different. However, some reviews report average pricing with upfront cost expectations.
Warranty
Momentum Solar backs its products with a 25-year warranty, which is the same as the best warranties in the solar industry. Momentum tells you exactly what is covered during the installation process, but it should usually cover both the equipment and the work.
Solar Services
Momentum offers many solar services, such as system design, getting permits, applying for solar incentives, cutting down trees, fixing roofs, and installing solar panels. They are in charge of the whole process and can add extra systems, like EV charging, if asked to.
Financing Options
On its website, Momentum Solar says that it has four plans for installing solar systems: purchase, finance, PPA, and lease. Except for buying it all at once, none of the other options require much or any money up front. Instead, they may come with different maintenance plans. Moreover, leased solar systems likely won’t qualify for government solar tax credits.
Specials or Incentives Offered
Momentum Solar doesn't currently advertise specials or incentives, but homeowners in Massachusetts can still apply to state and federal tax incentive and rebate programs as long as the system isn't leased. Momentum also assists with applying to state and federal programs.
In-House or Contracted Installations
Momentum Solar is in more than one state, but it has its own concierge team, employees, and technicians. The company claims to handle all parts of the installation from beginning to end and has user-friendly tools to monitor progress and energy production.
Brands of Solar Equipment Offered
Momentum Solar doesn’t specify the exact equipment brand it uses. Different brands of solar equipment will be available in each area and project, but Momentum says it has high-efficiency, long-lasting Tier 1 solar panels from trusted manufacturers.
Customer Reviews
Momentum Solar has been an “A+” accredited solar energy designer and contractor since 2015. Momentum customers rated their experiences 3 out of 5 stars across over 500 reviews. Most negative reviews complain of miscommunications, but others praise the company for how it handled the process from start to finish.
Partnerships
Momentum partners with several manufacturers and in-house teams across Massachusetts and the US. Momentum Solar also works with Enphase to store energy in batteries, but this product is not yet available to people in Massachusetts.
Take the Homeowner Quiz to Find Out the Cost of Solar Panel Installation for Your Home
Boston Solar
Boston Solar is based in Woburn and is one of the best solar companies in Massachusetts. It has been in business for 11 years and has installed over 5,000 solar energy systems across the state. The solar company offers customized solar designs and battery backup options. Boston Solar works with residential and commercial customers and guarantees its installations will maintain energy production for at least ten years, or they’ll pay the difference.
Boston Solar serves the South Shore, North Shore, Metro, West, Central Massachusetts, Greater Boston, the South Coast, and portions of Cape Cod.
Pros:
- Good reputation among Massachusetts homeowners
- Understands local policies and solar incentives
- Offers a variety of solar energy solutions
Cons:
- Not BBB accredited
- Only offers purchase or finance options
Bottom Line
Boston Solar has a variety of solar energy solutions for homes and businesses in Massachusetts, but the company is still pretty new and doesn't have BBB accreditation yet.
Cost, Warranty & Services
Boston Solar doesn't say how much its solar installations will cost, and the company says that there is no "one cost" because each project is different. All of its installations come with a 10-year workmanship guarantee and a 25-year solar panel and inverter warranty. Boston Solar also offers solar energy monitoring and battery storage.
Average Cost
The size of the project, the amount of energy it needs, and the equipment will affect the average cost of a solar installation on a Massachusetts property. After inspecting the property and figuring out what it needs, Boston Solar gives its customers a quote.
Warranty
Solar panel and inverter installations come with a 10-year workmanship guarantee, and Boston Solar will pay the difference if the solar energy output doesn’t meet the standard. Installations by Boston Solar also come with a 25-year product warranty, which is on par with the best warranties in the solar industry.
Solar Services
The Massachusetts-based solar installer works all over the state and does everything from design to installation for both homes and businesses. Boston Solar can also install critter guards, snow guards, and battery storage.
Financing Options
Boston Solar offers financing with no down payment and an interest rate of 6.49 percent, or you can pay for the system all at once. But Massachusetts residents who want more ways to get money may be eligible for the HEAT loan program.
Specials or Incentives Offered
Boston Solar doesn't offer any specials or discounts on its solar installations right now, but the state and federal governments do. They offer tax credits and rebates that lower the total cost of solar installations. Boston Solar’s representatives may be able to assist you with applying for these incentives.
In-House or Contracted Installations
Boston Solar has an in-house team to handle residential and commercial solar projects. They serve several areas throughout Massachusetts and oversee the entire process of the installation.
Brands of Solar Equipment Offered
Depending on the project, Boston Solar has a range of solar equipment brands, such as LG and S-Energy solar panels. Boston Solar can also install the Tesla Powerwall and Enphase battery storage units.
Customer Reviews
Boston Solar only has a couple of customer reviews on BBB and a “B+” rating, but the solar company is not accredited. But third-party review sites like Google and Angi have given Boston Solar hundreds of positive reviews with an average rating of more than four stars.
Partnerships
Boston Solar is an official sponsor of the Boston Red Sox and works with SolarFlair, Generac, and other high-efficiency solar brands.
SunPower
SunPower started in 1985 and is now one of the nation's largest solar providers, serving all of Massachusetts. The company has more than 1,000 patents for solar innovations, and they have even made technology for NASA. Unlike most other solar companies, SunPower uses its own in-house solar panel and storage technology. On its website, SunPower gives homeowners access to a solar power calculator and a virtual design tool.
SunPower has some of the most energy-efficient equipment on the market, along with an industry-leading warranty. It also offers flexible payment plans with as little as $0 down for qualified customers. This makes it one of the best solar installers in Massachusetts overall.
Pros:
- Offers custom designs for customers nationwide
- Has over 35 years of solar industry experience
- Backs its installations with an industry-leading 25-year warranty
Cons:
- No customer reviews on BBB
- Some report its work as being expensive
Bottom Line:
SunPower may be more expensive than many of its competitors, but the solar provider has some of the most experience in the industry.
Cost, Warranty & Services
SunPower estimates that the average cost to own a 5 kW solar panel system in Boston ranges from $3.01 to $5.99 per watt. SunPower solar installations come with a comprehensive 25-year warranty. It also offers several services, including battery storage technology, using its own equipment.
Average Cost
The average cost of solar panels depends on the roof's size, household energy needs, weather, and available space. SunPower estimates the average cost between $15,000 and nearly $30,000, but homeowners should speak with SunPower directly to get an accurate quote.
Warranty
SunPower protects its solar panels with a 25-year comprehensive warranty. This warranty covers manufacturer and workmanship defects as well as performance. SunPower’s battery storage equipment, the SunVault Storage system, comes with a 10-year warranty.
Solar Services
SunPower works all over the country and takes care of the whole process of installing solar panels, from the first meeting to the first time the panels are turned on. SunPower also has an online tool for designing systems, a mobile app, and the ability to keep an eye on systems.
Financing Options
SunPower has a variety of ways to pay for its products, but these vary by location and customer. SunPower advertises $0 down and low interest rates, but you should talk to them directly to find out what options are available in Massachusetts.
Specials or Incentives Offered
SunPower doesn’t discuss specials or incentives in Massachusetts, but homeowners may still qualify for the federal tax credit and state solar incentives. A representative from SunPower might be able to assist with the application process.
In-House or Contracted Installations
SunPower has contracted installers in Massachusetts and all over the US because it installs solar panels all over the country. SunPower chose these companies to work with, so they must meet the company's standards for installation, training, and customer satisfaction.
Brands of Solar Equipment Offered
SunPower offers its own solar equipment, called Equinox. SunPower Equinox is an all-in-one system that doesn’t require exterior hardware or utility boxes. SunPower also developed SunVault Storage, its battery storage technology system.
Customer Reviews
SunPower has an “A+” rating and accreditation on BBB, but it doesn’t have any customer reviews or previous complaints. Other third-party review sites like Consumer Affairs rate SunPower 4 out of 5 stars on average. Most customers report having positive interactions with several financing options.
Partnerships
SunPower works with many dealers all over the United States, including ones in Massachusetts, to install solar panels. SunPower says it carefully chooses its partners and looks for things like experience, good training, and happy customers.
Trinity Solar
Trinity Solar has been in business for nearly 30 years and operates in 9 states, including Massachusetts. It’s a family-owned company with over 2,400 employees and has completed nearly 80,000 installs, making them one of the most experienced providers available for Massachusetts residents. In addition, Trinity Solar offers purchasing and financing options for as little as $0 up front, but the company doesn’t advertise leasing options.
Trinity Solar handles all parts of the installation process, from the initial designs to permitting. The solar company can also set up backup battery systems and may be able to help you apply for incentive programs.
Pros:
- Family-owned and operated with nearly 30 years of experience
- Offers high-efficiency Q Cells for solar panels
- Has several financing options
Cons:
- Its website doesn’t specify pricing information
- Shorter workmanship warranty
Bottom Line:
Trinity Solar is one of the most experienced privately owned solar companies in the country, and people in Massachusetts can count on them for high-quality solar installations for their homes.
Cost, Warranty & Services
Trinity Solar's website doesn't say much about prices or warranties, but average costs for its services have been reported by others. Most brands of solar equipment come with a 25-year warranty, but it is said that Trinity Solar only has a 5-year warranty on workmanship. Trinity Solar oversees solar installations and can install additional equipment, like battery storage technology.
Average Cost
The average cost for new solar panels will depend on the project size, roof space, electricity consumption, solar equipment brands, and more. It’s best to speak with Trinity Solar directly to get an accurate quote for your project.
Warranty
Residential solar systems come with a 25-year warranty on the product, but Trinity Solar only offers a 5-year workmanship warranty, which covers problems with the work and installation. But Trinity Solar's warranties may be different depending on the type of equipment and where it is, so it's best to talk to one of its representatives about them.
Solar Services
Trinity Solar operates in nine states along the East Coast, including Massachusetts. The solar company conducts full solar installations, including design, permitting, and initial power-up. Trinity Solar also offers battery storage technology and system monitoring.
Financing Options
Trinity Solar has several ways to pay for its products, but its website doesn't talk about any of them in detail. Others report that Trinity Solar doesn’t offer leasing options, so it’s best to speak with the company directly to review current financing options in Massachusetts.
Specials or Incentives Offered
Trinity Solar doesn’t seem to offer specials or incentives, but the state of Massachusetts and the federal government offer tax credits and rebate programs to lower the cost. Trinity Solar may be able to assist you with applying for these incentives.
In-House or Contracted Installations
Trinity Solar has an in-house team of over 2,400 employees. The solar company has nearly 30 years of direct experience and operates in nine states. It’s one of the largest privately owned solar installers in the nation.
Brands of Solar Equipment Offered
The brands of equipment that Trinity Solar uses likely vary depending on the location and project. But it is said that Trinity Solar uses high-efficiency Q cells in its solar panels and inverters from Tesla, Generac, and SolarEdge. During the initial assessment and plan for your home, Trinity Solar will discuss the specific brands of solar equipment.
Customer Reviews
Trinity Solar has an “A+” rating and accreditation from the BBB, but customers only gave it 3 out of 5 stars. Other review platforms rate Trinity Solar anywhere between 3 and 4.5 stars, and most customers say they had positive experiences working with the company.
Partnerships
Trinity Solar works with a number of states and employees to do installations and design work for solar energy. Trinity works with a number of companies to get solar equipment and can install solar batteries and other ways to save energy.
Final Verdict: Who’s the Best Solar Energy Company in Massachusetts?
Sunrun is our #1 pick for the best solar company in Massachusetts. Sunrun gives you personalized service, solar designs that are made just for you, and one of the best guarantees in the business to protect your investment. Sunrun makes the process easy from start to finish and has multiple financing and lease options for Massachusetts homeowners. The solar company also invests in battery storage technology for when the power goes out and system monitoring to keep track of how well it works.
Sunrun offers a little bit of everything, from customizable designs to excellent customer service and several years of experience, making it the #1 solar energy company in Massachusetts.
Key Considerations When Looking for Solar Installer for Massachusetts Residents
Before signing a contract with a solar installer in Massachusetts, it's best to look at a few things first. Here are some considerations to keep in mind while vetting solar companies in Massachusetts.
Cost of Services & Installation
Most solar installers usually offer quotes based on the price per watt. On average, the cost of solar panels in 2023 will range between $3 and $5 per watt, with most homes requiring around 5,000 kW. For example, at $4/watt, homeowners will pay $20,000 for the installation cost, not including electric bill savings and tax incentives. It’s best to consider the initial out-of-pocket cost and then factor in additional tax savings or incentives to determine if you’re getting a fair deal.
Strong Warranty Coverage
Depending on the brand, most solar companies in Massachusetts offer warranties on both the installation and the equipment. Better warranties may cost more. Most installation warranties last anywhere from 5 to 15 years and cover how well the job was done. Equipment and performance warranties cover how the solar panels work and how they are made. Most of these warranties last up to 25 years. Most companies offer the same warranties on their equipment, but the installer will have different warranties for installation, mounting equipment, and roof leaks.
Company Years of Experience
If possible, try to work with solar installers with several years of experience. Companies with less experience may not be as familiar with the craft and may not have as many positive results to show. Solar companies in Massachusetts with more experience will have worked with more customers and installed more solar energy systems. This will give them more experience making decisions such as how many solar panels are needed in your home and whether you should opt for monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar panels. In addition to doing research on Massachusetts solar installers, look for those who have been doing good installations for a long time.
Solar Services Offered
If you want extra solar services, like installing technology that stores energy in batteries, you'll want to make sure your installer can meet your needs. In the same way, installing solar panels requires a lot of work with electricity, mounting, and the roof, all of which the company should have done before. Before committing to a Massachusetts solar company, learn about all its services and how they fit in with your project compared to hiring multiple companies to finish the job.
In-House or Contracted Installations
There are pros and cons to going with in-house or contracted solar companies. On the one hand, in-house solar installers have full control over the project through their sales team, quotes, and execution. But contracted solar installations can use any installer, which could lead to cheaper prices and more options for installers. In-house solar companies won’t have the same kind of mobility, so homeowners may be stuck with what the in-house provider offers, depending on the area.
Solar Equipment Brands
Solar energy systems have come a long way, and now several companies offer different types of solar equipment. It's best to find out about the brand of equipment your installer uses and make sure it has a good warranty, good customer service, and has been tested and reviewed thoroughly. For example, you may prefer a more user-friendly brand over one with better financing options. Once you know what you want from your solar panel system, you should look into the brand of solar equipment your installer uses to make sure it meets your needs.
Customer Reviews
The best solar companies in Massachusetts should have several positive customer reviews across the years they’ve been in business. It’s best to check review sites like BBB, Angi, and Trustpilot to vet their quality and customer service. Moreover, solar installers usually have a testimonial or review page on their website. You want to check for any red flags, like if a customer reports that the company never finished the job. Since customer reviews are from people who went through a similar process, you’ll get a better idea of what to expect throughout the installation process and following results.
Financing Options
Massachusetts residents should always research the financing options available for their solar panel installation. It’s best to look for companies that have flexible options, such as requiring no money down and payment schedules that work with your budget. In the same way, after 18 months, when homeowners get their tax credits back, some financing options will change. Before committing to a solar panel installation, be sure to check with the installer to verify any financing options available to you and what the long-term cost will look like.
Solar Tax Incentives in Massachusetts
Massachusetts offers a residential renewable energy income tax credit worth 15% or $1,000 of the installation costs, whichever is less. Massachusetts residents can use this energy credit for personal income tax during that year. The state's tax policy for home and household items also says that solar panel installations and equipment directly related to solar systems are not taxed.
Solar-powered homes in Massachusetts can also get tax breaks on their property for 20 years after installation. There is no maximum incentive for the state’s property tax exemption, and it covers 100% of eligible property taxes.
The state government's HEAT loan program allows Massachusetts residents who want to finance to do so for free. Borrowers who qualify can get up to $25,000 with no interest to pay for energy upgrades, such as solar panels.
On the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency website, you can find a full list of all the solar tax incentives that are available to people in Massachusetts.
Take the Homeowner Quiz to Find Out the Cost of Solar Panel Installation on Your Home
FAQs About Solar Companies in Massachusetts
Does Massachusetts have a solar tax credit?
Yes, Massachusetts has a residential renewable energy tax credit worth 15% or $1,000 of the solar installation costs, whichever is less. Massachusetts also offers other incentives, like a sales tax exemption for solar energy equipment expenses. Massachusetts homeowners may qualify for property tax exemptions too.
Are solar panels worth it in Massachusetts?
Despite its weather, Massachusetts is a great state for solar panels. Massachusetts' electricity rates are 14.91 cents per kWh, the 9th highest in the nation. Solar panels can cut the cost of electricity by a lot, and Massachusetts has a number of programs to help lower the cost of installation.
How much do solar panels cost in Massachusetts?
Most solar panel energy systems cost between $3 and $5 per watt, with most homes requiring 5,000 watts. Solar panels may cost anywhere from $15,000 to over $20,000, depending on the property size, electricity requirements, and equipment used.
Do solar panels increase home values in Massachusetts?
According to Zillow, homes with solar panels see over a 4% value increase. This estimate will change based on the market and the area, but homeowners in Massachusetts can be sure that installing solar panels will raise the value of their home, especially given how much electricity costs there.
Are solar panels free in Massachusetts?
Solar panels are not free in Massachusetts, but there are several government and state incentive programs to help lower the cost. The federal government offers a tax credit worth 30% of the solar installation costs, and Massachusetts residents may qualify for a property tax exemption.
Can I install my own solar panels in Massachusetts?
While it’s not impossible, solar panels are hard to install by yourself in Massachusetts. Before you can connect your system to the power grid, you'll need to know how to do it, compare products, talk to experts, get permits, and have your system inspected.