Solar Panel Cost Guide in Hudson, MA (2023 Update)

  • Hudson Solar Installation Cost: $9,179
  • 25-Year Savings: $15,009
  • Payback Period: 9.5 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 04, 2023

Why you can trust EcoWatch

We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Hudson

Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Hudson.

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Hudson it's 2.94 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 4.5-kW system would cost about $9,179 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy needs, the type of solar system you want to get, your solar contractor and more. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on utility bills.

To get a free estimate from a top solar company in Hudson, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Hudson

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-8,211
3 years $-6,276
5 years $-4,341
7 years $-2,406
9 years $-471
11 years $1,464
13 years $3,399
15 years $5,334
17 years $7,269
19 years $9,204
21 years $11,139
23 years $13,074
25 years $15,009

Top Solar Installers in Hudson

Although you can install solar panels on your own, it takes extra labor and knowledge. For that reason, almost all homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a high reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.

If you'd like to go solar but still aren't certain which solar system company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers near you:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • 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 Hudson

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Hudson

The cost of installing a solar system in Hudson can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The largest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.

Solar Equipment

Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it's important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Usually, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar companies in Hudson offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. Although solar loans make going solar more accessible for Hudson homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Hudson, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. The company's size can sometimes play the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because they have greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.

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 $19,701 9.9 years
8 kW $3.00 $16,793 $26,597 9.7 years
10 kW $2.94 $20,580 $33,658 9.5 years
12 kW $2.88 $24,202 $40,884 9.3 years
14 kW $2.82 $27,660 $48,274 9.1 years
16 kW $2.76 $30,952 $55,829 8.9 years
18 kW $2.70 $34,080 $63,548 8.7 years
20 kW $2.65 $37,044 $71,432 8.5 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer different brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
  • Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
  • Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can research your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Hudson, MA Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Hudson?

The average cost of solar panels in Hudson 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 such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?

Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?

Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,084.76 per year.

How long do solar panels last in Hudson?

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 higher level 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.

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