Solar Panel Cost Guide in Boston, NY (2024 Update)
- Boston Solar Installation Cost: $11,696
- 25-Year Savings: $5,875
- Payback Period: 19.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Boston
Here’s how much it might cost to go solar in Boston.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Boston is 4 per watt.To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Boston, most homeowners require a 4.6-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $11,696, or $16,725 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $13,000 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 Boston
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,870 |
| 3 years | $-9,218 |
| 5 years | $-7,566 |
| 7 years | $-5,914 |
| 9 years | $-4,263 |
| 11 years | $-2,611 |
| 13 years | $-959 |
| 15 years | $693 |
| 17 years | $2,345 |
| 19 years | $3,997 |
| 21 years | $5,648 |
| 23 years | $7,300 |
| 25 years | $8,952 |
Top Solar Installers in Boston
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners opt to go with a solar company since DIY solar panel installation can be a time-consuming project. Some solar companies, particularly local ones, can help you better understand incentives in Boston, optimizing your ROI.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. 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 for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
Solar Veteran
Trinity Solar
- Many financing options
- Family-owned and -operated
- Makes charitable contributions
- Limited service area
- Relatively short workmanship warranty
See all of the solar companies in Boston
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Boston
For many Boston homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Boston, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need to offset your energy usage, 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 around $3,650. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Boston, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Boston, which can reduce, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it’s crucial to take that into consideration 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 installation company you choose will influence your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.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 come with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and find a company that provides the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also is 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 | $3.80 | $15,943 | $4,147 | 19.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.72 | $20,849 | $5,938 | 19.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.65 | $25,550 | $7,933 | 19.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.58 | $30,047 | $10,133 | 18.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.50 | $34,339 | $12,537 | 18.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.43 | $38,427 | $15,146 | 17.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.36 | $42,311 | $17,959 | 17.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.29 | $45,990 | $20,977 | 17.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Boston, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you hire.
- Warranty: A high-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: Read the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project completion timeline incentives and warranties.
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
Solar Veteran
Trinity Solar
- Many financing options
- Family-owned and -operated
- Makes charitable contributions
- Limited service area
- Relatively short workmanship warranty
EcoWatch's Boston, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Boston?
The average cost of solar panels in Boston is about $18,250 for a 5-kW system and $36,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important thing to think about when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Boston have a net metering program?
Each state has some form 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 power bills.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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 install between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.