Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sunderland, MA (2023 Update)
- Sunderland Solar Installation Cost: $9,323
- 25-Year Savings: $14,616
- Payback Period: 9.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sunderland
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in Sunderland.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Sunderland it's 2.94 per watt. The average Sunderland homeowner needs a 4.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $9,323 with the federal tax credit, or $13,332 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Sunderland homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Many homeowners find going solar is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Sunderland can save about $20,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar company in Sunderland for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in Sunderland
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,365 |
| 3 years | $-6,450 |
| 5 years | $-4,535 |
| 7 years | $-2,620 |
| 9 years | $-705 |
| 11 years | $1,210 |
| 13 years | $3,125 |
| 15 years | $5,041 |
| 17 years | $6,956 |
| 19 years | $8,871 |
| 21 years | $10,786 |
| 23 years | $12,701 |
| 25 years | $14,616 |
Top Solar Installers in Sunderland
Putting up solar panels by yourself can be a time-consuming project, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar power, going with a solar installer can help with that as well. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on how to install solar panels and sometimes even information on local incentives, rebates and net metering programs.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some in Sunderland:
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 Sunderland
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sunderland
Though the average cost of a solar system in Sunderland is $9,323, your final cost may differ. There are quite a few factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your home, 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. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Generally, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. Additionally, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Sunderland, which can bring down, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with 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 take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of green energy solutions in Sunderland, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It's best to do some research and find a company that offers the products, warranties and services you want and also fits within your budget.
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 | $18,889 | 10.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.00 | $16,793 | $25,515 | 9.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.94 | $20,580 | $32,305 | 9.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.88 | $24,202 | $39,260 | 9.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.82 | $27,660 | $46,380 | 9.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.76 | $30,952 | $53,664 | 9.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.70 | $34,080 | $61,113 | 9.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.65 | $37,044 | $68,727 | 8.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a good 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.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 Sunderland, MA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Sunderland?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many 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. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Sunderland?
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 can't take advantage of 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 savings from going solar.
Does Sunderland have a net metering program?
The majority of states have 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 utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
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.