Solar Panel Cost Guide in Mansfield, MA (2023 Update)
- Mansfield Solar Installation Cost: $8,911
- 25-Year Savings: $15,609
- Payback Period: 9.1 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Mansfield
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Mansfield.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Mansfield, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.94 per watt. Since a 4.3-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Mansfield, the average price of going solar will be about $8,911 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The true cost of your system can go higher or lower than the average in Mansfield based on a variety of factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Many homeowners find installing solar panels is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Mansfield can save about $22,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Mansfield for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Mansfield
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,930 |
| 3 years | $-5,969 |
| 5 years | $-4,007 |
| 7 years | $-2,046 |
| 9 years | $-84 |
| 11 years | $1,878 |
| 13 years | $3,839 |
| 15 years | $5,801 |
| 17 years | $7,762 |
| 19 years | $9,724 |
| 21 years | $11,685 |
| 23 years | $13,647 |
| 25 years | $15,609 |
Top Solar Installers in Mansfield
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it involves extra energy and expertise. That's why most homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Plus, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar energy, using a solar installer can help with that too. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on installation and sometimes even information on local incentives, rebates and net metering programs.
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 nearby:
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 Mansfield
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Mansfield
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Mansfield: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $2,940 per kilowatt in Mansfield. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Generally, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a solid route because they reduce your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, 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 original cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you opt for to install your solar panel system can play a role in determining your pricing. Mansfield's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in the cost of installation. 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 generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $21,145 | 9.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.00 | $16,793 | $28,523 | 9.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.94 | $20,580 | $36,065 | 9.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.88 | $24,202 | $43,772 | 8.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.82 | $27,660 | $51,643 | 8.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.76 | $30,952 | $59,679 | 8.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.70 | $34,080 | $67,880 | 8.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.65 | $37,044 | $76,246 | 8.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and energy needs. While there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to peruse their list of offerings before deciding.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a good reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can look into your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a good company.
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 Mansfield, MA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Mansfield?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $14,700 for a 5-kW system and $29,400 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Mansfield?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most bang for your buck from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Mansfield?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Mansfield?
On average, solar panels can last 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 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.