Solar Panel Cost Guide in Pittsfield, MA (Mar 2023)
- Pittsfield Solar Installation Cost: $9,302
- 25-Year Savings: $15,629
- Payback Period: 9.3 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Pittsfield
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Pittsfield.
In Pittsfield, solar panels cost about 2.94 per watt on average. Because a 4.5-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Pittsfield, the average price of going solar will be about $9,302 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Pittsfield homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $21,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Pittsfield
| 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 Pittsfield
Installing solar panels on your own can be a challenging project, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Also, companies with a good reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Pittsfield, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Pittsfield
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Pittsfield
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few key factors that determine your overall cost in Pittsfield: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $2,940. 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 choose 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 in the long run on your power bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Pittsfield average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Pittsfield provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final key cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of clean energy solutions in Pittsfield, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Pittsfield know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. 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
Since the brand of solar panels and the company you choose greatly influences your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a good company.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and how much efficiency they need. Although there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of options before making your decision.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project completion 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 Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Pittsfield, MA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Pittsfield?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different 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 extra 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 less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Pittsfield have a net metering program?
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 give 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 consumption and the amount of 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 buy 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.