Solar Panel Cost Guide in Shirley, MA (2023 Update)
- Shirley Solar Installation Cost: $9,179
- 25-Year Savings: $16,707
- Payback Period: 8.9 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Shirley
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Shirley.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Shirley it's 2.94 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Shirley is around 4.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $9,179 for a solar installation, or $13,126 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 Shirley homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Many homeowners find going solar is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Shirley can save around $22,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
To receive a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar company in Shirley, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Shirley
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,143 |
| 3 years | $-6,072 |
| 5 years | $-4,001 |
| 7 years | $-1,931 |
| 9 years | $140 |
| 11 years | $2,211 |
| 13 years | $4,282 |
| 15 years | $6,353 |
| 17 years | $8,424 |
| 19 years | $10,495 |
| 21 years | $12,566 |
| 23 years | $14,636 |
| 25 years | $16,707 |
Top Solar Installers in Shirley
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Using a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't sure 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 Shirley
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Shirley
For many Shirley homeowners, the decision to go solar rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Shirley, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it's important to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The kind of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will substantially influence costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Plus, 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 looking for a solar system that's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Shirley homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last major cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of clean energy solutions in Shirley, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $21,987 | 9.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.00 | $16,793 | $29,645 | 9.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.94 | $20,580 | $37,467 | 8.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.88 | $24,202 | $45,455 | 8.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.82 | $27,660 | $53,607 | 8.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.76 | $30,952 | $61,924 | 8.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.70 | $34,080 | $70,405 | 8.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.65 | $37,044 | $79,051 | 8.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you go with will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should take into account, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to ask for their list of options before making your decision.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure to read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
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 Shirley, MA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Shirley?
The average cost of solar panels in Shirley 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 stuff such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Shirley?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.
Is it worth going solar in Shirley?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for many homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your power bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
How long do solar panels last in Shirley?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.