Solar Panel Cost Guide in Cochituate, MA (2023 Update)
- Cochituate Solar Installation Cost: $9,178
- 25-Year Savings: $16,926
- Payback Period: 8.8 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Cochituate
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Cochituate.
In Cochituate, solar panels cost about 2.94 per watt on average. The average solar panel system size in Cochituate is around 4.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $9,179 for a solar installation, or $13,126 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can be above or below the average in Cochituate based on a variety of factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. With average savings of about $22,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Cochituate find installing solar panels has a decent ROI.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Cochituate
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,576 |
| 3 years | $-4,374 |
| 5 years | $-1,171 |
| 7 years | $2,032 |
| 9 years | $5,234 |
| 11 years | $8,437 |
| 13 years | $11,640 |
| 15 years | $14,842 |
| 17 years | $18,045 |
| 19 years | $21,247 |
| 21 years | $24,450 |
| 23 years | $27,653 |
| 25 years | $30,855 |
Top Solar Installers in Cochituate
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Using a solar company can make converting to solar power much easier. A solar company can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and component replacements.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't certain which solar panel company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Cochituate:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Cochituate
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Cochituate
The cost of installing a solar system in Cochituate can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The biggest one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in Cochituate, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $2,940 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Cochituate have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it's vital to consider that as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Cochituate, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It's best to do some research and decide on the company that offers the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also fits within your budget.
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 | $22,279 | 9.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.00 | $16,793 | $30,034 | 9.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.94 | $20,580 | $37,955 | 8.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.88 | $24,202 | $46,039 | 8.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.82 | $27,660 | $54,289 | 8.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.76 | $30,952 | $62,703 | 8.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.70 | $34,080 | $71,282 | 8.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.65 | $37,044 | $80,025 | 7.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- 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 large role in the company you go with.
- Contract: It's important to read through your solar installer's contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about your solar system's energy production.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Cochituate, MA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Cochituate?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $14,700 for a 5-kW system and $29,400 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my power bills?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Cochituate, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Cochituate?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger 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.