Solar Panel Cost Guide in Northampton, MA (2024 Update)
- Northampton Solar Installation Cost: $12,815
- 25-Year Savings: $15,232
- Payback Period: 13.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Northampton
We break down average solar pricing in Northampton.
In Northampton, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.The average solar panel system size in Northampton is around 4.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,815 for a solar installation, or $18,325 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The exact cost of going solar can vary depending on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually rewarding, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To receive a free estimate from a top solar installer in Northampton, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Northampton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,092 |
| 3 years | $-7,645 |
| 5 years | $-4,198 |
| 7 years | $-751 |
| 9 years | $2,695 |
| 11 years | $6,142 |
| 13 years | $9,589 |
| 15 years | $13,036 |
| 17 years | $16,483 |
| 19 years | $19,930 |
| 21 years | $23,377 |
| 23 years | $26,824 |
| 25 years | $30,270 |
Top Solar Installers in Northampton
Trying to put up solar panels yourself can be a difficult task, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. A solar company can also help save you money in the long run by providing warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
If you’d like to make the switch to solar but still aren’t sure which solar system company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Northampton:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
See all of the solar companies in Northampton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Northampton
Although the average cost of a solar system in Northampton is $12,815, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels 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 better efficiency or power production use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $4,060.The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your energy bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Northampton average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Northampton homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, 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 principal cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar system can influence the cost. Northampton’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $4.22 | $17,734 | $14,881 | 13.6 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $20,297 | 13.3 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $25,939 | 13.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $31,809 | 12.8 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $37,906 | 12.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $44,231 | 12.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $50,783 | 12.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $57,562 | 11.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose greatly influences your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Contract: It’s important to read through your solar installer’s contract closely to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the project timeline.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
EcoWatch's Northampton, MA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Northampton?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 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 want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Northampton?
Solar panels aren’t free in Northampton, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Northampton?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you 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 how much 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 buy 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.