Solar Panel Cost Guide in Belmont, MA (2024 Update)
- Belmont Solar Installation Cost: $12,674
- 25-Year Savings: $19,755
- Payback Period: 11.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Belmont
We go over average solar pricing in Belmont.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Belmont, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Belmont is around 4.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,674 for a solar installation, or $18,124 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and how much solar costs for you will differ based on your energy needs and what company you want to go with.Despite the significant upfront cost, the average Belmont homeowner can save about $25,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Belmont
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,072 |
| 3 years | $-7,870 |
| 5 years | $-4,667 |
| 7 years | $-1,465 |
| 9 years | $1,738 |
| 11 years | $4,941 |
| 13 years | $8,143 |
| 15 years | $11,346 |
| 17 years | $14,549 |
| 19 years | $17,751 |
| 21 years | $20,954 |
| 23 years | $24,156 |
| 25 years | $27,359 |
Top Solar Installers in Belmont
Trying to install solar panels yourself can be a challenging project, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Another advantage of using a solar company is that they can help you maximize your ROI by bringing down your future costs of repairs and replacements because of warranties and giving you information on local incentives you can take advantage of.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some in Belmont:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Belmont
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Belmont
The cost of installing a solar system in Belmont can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $4,060. The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your energy bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Belmont average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Belmont, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Belmont is the company you choose to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for instance, there’s no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points.You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those larger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $4.22 | $17,734 | $21,193 | 11.4 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $28,712 | 11.2 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $36,458 | 11.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $44,432 | 10.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $52,633 | 10.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $61,061 | 10.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $69,717 | 10.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $78,600 | 9.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you choose will impact not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should consider, such as:
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a good company.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar company, such as what permits you should acquire and what the project timeline is.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry various brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Belmont, MA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Belmont?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Belmont?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Belmont. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Belmont?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.