Solar Panel Cost Guide in North Adams, MA (2023 Update)
- North Adams Solar Installation Cost: $9,302
- 25-Year Savings: $15,629
- Payback Period: 9.3 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Updated May 04, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in North Adams
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in North Adams.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in North Adams, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.94 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 4.5-kW system would cost about $9,302 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll end up paying for solar may vary based on your household energy use, the type of solar system you want to get, your solar contractor and more. With typical savings of about $21,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in North Adams find going solar has a decent ROI.
For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in North Adams
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,305 |
| 3 years | $-6,310 |
| 5 years | $-4,316 |
| 7 years | $-2,321 |
| 9 years | $-327 |
| 11 years | $1,668 |
| 13 years | $3,662 |
| 15 years | $5,657 |
| 17 years | $7,651 |
| 19 years | $9,646 |
| 21 years | $11,640 |
| 23 years | $13,635 |
| 25 years | $15,629 |
Top Solar Installers in North Adams
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Hiring a solar panel installer can make converting to solar power much easier. A solar company can also help save you money over time by providing warranties, repairs and part replacements.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't certain which solar system installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
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 North Adams
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in North Adams
For many North Adams homeowners, the decision to install solar panels rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in North Adams, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in North Adams, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home's energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,940 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will greatly impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more costly. Further, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to think about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when searching for a solar system that's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in North Adams provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total 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 getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar system can impact the cost. North Adams' solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in North Adams 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 | $20,278 | 9.7 years |
| 8 kW | $3.00 | $16,793 | $27,367 | 9.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.94 | $20,580 | $34,621 | 9.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.88 | $24,202 | $42,039 | 9.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.82 | $27,660 | $49,621 | 8.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.76 | $30,952 | $57,369 | 8.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.70 | $34,080 | $65,281 | 8.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.65 | $37,044 | $73,357 | 8.4 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:
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have 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.
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 North Adams, MA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in North Adams?
The average cost of solar panels in North Adams 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 use.
Can you get solar panels for free in North Adams?
You can't get solar panels for free in North Adams. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does North Adams have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind 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 energy bills.
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 the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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 cover 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.