Solar Panel Cost Guide in Topsfield, MA (2024 Update)
- Topsfield Solar Installation Cost: $12,074
- 25-Year Savings: $15,731
- Payback Period: 12.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Topsfield
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Topsfield.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Topsfield, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 4.2-kW system would cost about $12,074 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Topsfield homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.With typical savings of about $22,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Topsfield find going solar can pay off big.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Topsfield
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,351 |
| 3 years | $-6,904 |
| 5 years | $-3,457 |
| 7 years | $-10 |
| 9 years | $3,437 |
| 11 years | $6,884 |
| 13 years | $10,331 |
| 15 years | $13,777 |
| 17 years | $17,224 |
| 19 years | $20,671 |
| 21 years | $24,118 |
| 23 years | $27,565 |
| 25 years | $31,012 |
Top Solar Installers in Topsfield
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Hiring a solar company can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Plus, if you aren’t sure what type of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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
See all of the solar companies in Topsfield
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Topsfield
The cost of installing a solar system in Topsfield can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. That’s why it’s crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use.The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost 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. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your power bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Topsfield average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Topsfield to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in higher prices over time because of interest.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it’s important to include that in your estimate as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Topsfield, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and find a company that has the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also fit into 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 | $4.22 | $17,734 | $16,831 | 12.8 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $22,896 | 12.6 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $29,188 | 12.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $35,708 | 12.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $42,455 | 11.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $49,429 | 11.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $56,631 | 11.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $64,060 | 11.1 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 find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: Review the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the total cost, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you choose.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can verify your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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
EcoWatch's Topsfield, MA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Topsfield?
The average cost of solar panels in Topsfield is about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things such as the model 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 Topsfield?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to 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.
How much can I save on electricity bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,152.16 per year.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.