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

  • Montague Solar Installation Cost: $9,323
  • 25-Year Savings: $15,278
  • 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 Montague

Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Montague.

The average cost of a solar system in Montague is 2.94 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 4.5-kW system would cost about $9,323 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Montague homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Many homeowners find installing a solar system is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Montague can save around $21,000 on their power bills over 20 years.

Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar panel company in Montague for a personalized quote.

Solar savings over time in Montague

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-8,339
3 years $-6,371
5 years $-4,403
7 years $-2,435
9 years $-466
11 years $1,502
13 years $3,470
15 years $5,438
17 years $7,406
19 years $9,374
21 years $11,342
23 years $13,310
25 years $15,278

Top Solar Installers in Montague

Trying to install solar panels by yourself can be a dangerous undertaking, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Local solar installation companies can also help you optimize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives you can benefit from and by offering warranties and repairs.

If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't sure which solar panel company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Montague:

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 Montague

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Montague

Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in Montague: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power generation require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,940. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag 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 can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar companies in Montague offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The final key cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of renewable energy solutions in Montague, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Montague are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, 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 $19,767 9.8 years
8 kW $3.00 $16,793 $26,685 9.7 years
10 kW $2.94 $20,580 $33,768 9.5 years
12 kW $2.88 $24,202 $41,015 9.3 years
14 kW $2.82 $27,660 $48,427 9.1 years
16 kW $2.76 $30,952 $56,004 8.9 years
18 kW $2.70 $34,080 $63,745 8.7 years
20 kW $2.65 $37,044 $71,651 8.5 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 brands and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Warranty: If you're concerned about the endurance of your solar energy system, checking if your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
  • Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • 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.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you need to get plays a role in which company you should go with, since different companies offer different panels.

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 Montague, MA Solar Cost FAQs

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

The average cost of solar panels in Montague is about $14,700 for a 5-kW system and $29,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Should I lease or buy solar panels in Montague?

Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to 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 savings from going solar.

Can solar panels significantly reduce my energy bills?

Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,086.95 per year.

What solar power system size is right for 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 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 install between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.

Follow us