Solar Panel Cost Guide in Northbridge, MA (2023 Update)
- Northbridge Solar Installation Cost: $9,215
- 25-Year Savings: $16,709
- Payback Period: 8.9 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Northbridge
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Northbridge.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Northbridge generally cost about 2.94. To account for the typical energy needs of the average home in Northbridge, most homeowners require a 4.5-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $9,220, or $13,185 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
Remember 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 panels you want to get, your solar contractor and more. Even with the large upfront cost, the average Northbridge homeowner can save around $22,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
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 Northbridge
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,129 |
| 3 years | $-8,956 |
| 5 years | $-8,783 |
| 7 years | $-8,610 |
| 9 years | $-8,438 |
| 11 years | $-8,265 |
| 13 years | $-8,092 |
| 15 years | $-7,919 |
| 17 years | $-7,746 |
| 19 years | $-7,574 |
| 21 years | $-7,401 |
| 23 years | $-7,228 |
| 25 years | $-7,055 |
Top Solar Installers in Northbridge
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Going with a solar company can make converting to solar power much easier. Local solar installation companies can also help you maximize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives and by providing warranties and repairs.
Working with a licensed solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
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 Northbridge
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Northbridge
There are several factors that can play into your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of solar panels in Northbridge, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home's energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,940 for each additional kilowatt you need. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Generally, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Plus, 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
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Northbridge homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going 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 above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Northbridge, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk prices, 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 | $3.06 | $12,842 | $21,895 | 9.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.00 | $16,793 | $29,523 | 9.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.94 | $20,580 | $37,315 | 8.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.88 | $24,202 | $45,272 | 8.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.82 | $27,660 | $53,393 | 8.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.76 | $30,952 | $61,680 | 8.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.70 | $34,080 | $70,130 | 8.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.65 | $37,044 | $78,746 | 8.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because picking a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry different brands and types of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
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 Northbridge, MA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Northbridge?
The average cost of solar panels in Northbridge 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 certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Northbridge?
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 don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your property 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 financial benefits from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Northbridge?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system generates 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 many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption 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 get 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.