Solar Panel Cost Guide in Warren, MA (Sep 2022)
- Warren Solar Installation Cost: $9,220
- 25-Year Savings: $16,705
- Payback Period: 8.9 Years
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Updated 9/16/2022
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Warren
We go over average solar pricing in Warren.
In Warren, solar panels cost about $3 per watt on average. The average solar panel system size in Warren is around 4.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $9,220 for a solar installation, or $6,823 after the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Warren homeowner. 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. Despite the significant upfront cost, the average Warren homeowner can save around $22,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
To receive a free quote from a pre-vetted solar installer in Warren, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Warren
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,183 |
| 3 years | $-6,109 |
| 5 years | $-4,035 |
| 7 years | $-1,961 |
| 9 years | $113 |
| 11 years | $2,187 |
| 13 years | $4,261 |
| 15 years | $6,335 |
| 17 years | $8,409 |
| 19 years | $10,483 |
| 21 years | $12,557 |
| 23 years | $14,631 |
| 25 years | $16,705 |
Top Solar Installers in Warren
Putting up solar panels on your own can be a dangerous project, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you aren't sure what type of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
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
The Green Panel
- 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 Warren
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Warren
There are a number of criteria that can influence your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment Size
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size. Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power production use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,940. The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Warren average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Warren to be prohibitively costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in paying more over time due to interest. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Warren, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by offering 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 | $21,895 | 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 |
Solar Incentives in Warren
| Name | Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) Program |
| Incentive Amount | (Base compensation rate + compensation rate adders - greenfield subtractor) * total kWh generated - value of energy generated |
| Incentive Max | The ceiling price for the competitive procurement to determine the base compensation rate was $0.17/kWh. For systems 25 kW or less, the combination of a base compensation rate and adder may not exceed the base compensation rate for low-income projects less than or equal to 25 kW. |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | ITC |
| Type | Tax Incentive |
| Incentive Amount | 26% of installation cost |
| Website | Visit here |
| Name | Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SREC-II) |
| Incentive Amount | Varies, depending on market supply and demand |
| Incentive Max | 2017 compliance year: Alternative Compliance Payment Rate is $350 per MWh (~$0.35 per kWh) |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Renewable Energy Property Tax Exemption |
| Incentive Amount | 100% exemption for 20 years |
| Incentive Max | Not specified |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Residential Renewable Energy Income Tax Credit |
| Incentive Amount | 15% |
| Incentive Max | $1,000 |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Mass Solar Loan Program |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Local Option - Energy Revolving Loan Fund |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Alternative Energy and Energy Conservation Patent Income Tax Deduction (Personal) |
| Incentive Amount | 100% deduction |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Reading Municipal Light Department - Residential Renewable Energy Rebates |
| Incentive Amount | MLP Solar Rebate Program: $1.20 per watt Residential Renewable Energy Rebate Program: $1.00 per watt |
| Incentive Max | MLP Solar Rebate Program: 50% of cost or $30,000, whichever is less Residential Renewable Energy Rebate Program: $2,000 |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Renewable Energy Equipment Sales Tax Exemption |
| Incentive Amount | 100% exemption |
| Incentive Max | None |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly impacts 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:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
- Warranty: A quality company stands out from other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, 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.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
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
The Green Panel
- 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 Warren, MA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Warren?
The average cost of solar panels in Warren 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 stuff such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Warren?
A solar panel system isn't free in Warren, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,157.90 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Warren?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount 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.
