Solar Panel Cost Guide in Brookline, MA (2023 Update)
- Brookline Solar Installation Cost: $9,076
- 25-Year Savings: $17,027
- Payback Period: 8.7 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Updated March 14, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Brookline
We break down average solar pricing in Brookline.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Brookline, the average cost of a solar system is 2.94 per watt. The average Brookline homeowner needs a 4.4-kilowatt system, which would cost about $9,076 with the federal tax credit, or $12,979 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll end up paying for solar will differ based on your household energy use, the type of solar panels you choose, your solar contractor and more. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $22,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
To get a free quote from a vetted solar company in Brookline, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Brookline
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,032 |
| 3 years | $-5,943 |
| 5 years | $-3,855 |
| 7 years | $-1,767 |
| 9 years | $321 |
| 11 years | $2,410 |
| 13 years | $4,498 |
| 15 years | $6,586 |
| 17 years | $8,674 |
| 19 years | $10,763 |
| 21 years | $12,851 |
| 23 years | $14,939 |
| 25 years | $17,027 |
Top Solar Installers in Brookline
Putting up solar panels yourself can be a difficult project, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Since solar panels are exposed to temperature swings and extreme weather, warranties and repairs from your solar installer can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by reducing potential costs down the line.
If you're looking for a solar company in Brookline, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Brookline
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Brookline
There are many factors that can determine your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. Because of that, it's important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The kind 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, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Brookline average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Brookline, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. Though solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Brookline homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to solar energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Brookline, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Brookline are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.06 | $12,842 | $22,683 | 9.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.00 | $16,793 | $30,574 | 8.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.94 | $20,580 | $38,629 | 8.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.88 | $24,202 | $46,848 | 8.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.82 | $27,660 | $55,233 | 8.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.76 | $30,952 | $63,782 | 8.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.70 | $34,080 | $72,495 | 8.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.65 | $37,044 | $81,374 | 7.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you decide on the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you go with.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panel system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Brookline, MA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Brookline?
The average cost of solar panels in Brookline is about $14,700 for a 5-kW system and $29,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Brookline?
Solar panels aren't free in Brookline, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Brookline?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future power bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount of energy production.
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.