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10 best solar companies in Boston, Massachusetts
Josephine NesbitHome improvement writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Jun 22, 2024
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We've ranked the top 10 solar companies that operate within 50 miles of Boston. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
To perform a high-quality solar panel installation in Boston, Massachusetts, you'll need to find a certified, qualified and experienced solar installer. We've assembled a list of the best solar companies in Boston to help you find the right one.
Prior to selecting an installer, ask others for suggestions, vet potential companies and collect multiple quotes to find the ideal company for your requirements. You can look for a local solar company in Boston or use a well-known national brand.
- Extends 25-year system and labor warranties
- Installs electric vehicle chargers
- Offers strong leasing options
- Extends a 25-year system warranty
- Includes upkeep services for leases
- Provides additional insurance coverage
Although solar panels need a large initial investment, you can reduce your energy expenses in the long term by making the switch. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), adopting solar energy allows Boston homeowners to save a yearly average of around $1,000.
Many solar companies provide different products. Make sure to review each company and get quotes from all before arranging your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Boston
Vet Boston solar companies with a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews and similar customer review platforms. The company should also have a good rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Looking at previous customer testimonials can give insight into other homeowners' experiences working with the solar company. Frequent poor reviews are worth making a note of as a possible red flag.
SunPower by BlueSel Home Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
E2 Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Sunrun Fusion New England
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Great Sky Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
EnergySage
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Boston Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Team Sunshine Construction, LLC.
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Future Energy Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Brightway Energy
Services offered
Highlights
- Informative resources
GOSO Technologies
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
More providers
Below are additional solar installation companies that didn’t make our top picks based on their distance, ratings or service offerings.
Sunbug Solar
Viridis Energy Solutions
NuWatt Energy
Devlin Energy
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Boston?
Places with differing amounts of sun, including those with increased rain or cloud coverage like Boston, can still take advantage of solar energy. Here are the best reasons for going solar:
- Charge an electric vehicle: With a solar panel system, you can power electric vehicles right from your home. Using your own solar power is the ideal method to ensure your electric car is fueled with clean, renewable energy.
- Reduce environmental impact: Switching to solar reduces your carbon footprint by decreasing the use of fossil fuels that would be needed to power your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) indicates that electricity production is one of the primary drivers of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Save on energy bills: Using solar energy enables you to reduce your electricity bills. The power generated by solar panels replaces electricity that would otherwise be purchased from utility providers.
Facts about Boston
Monthly Energy Spending Per Capita
Clear Sky Days Per Year
Annual Solar Savings Per kW
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Boston?
Our survey from October 2023 showed that the national median price of solar panel installation is $11,743.
What you'll pay to install solar panels hinges on factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof alignment, shading, system size and labor. The price goes up if you choose any add-ons like batteries, animal guards or solar trackers.
In Boston, solar panel installation costs around $12,487, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the EIA and NASA.
How much can you save by going solar in Boston?
Installing solar panels calls for sizable spending upfront, but you can make those costs back through significant reductions in your energy bills down the line.
Money savings in Boston from going solar
After moving completely to solar power, Boston homeowners usually see cost savings. However, recovering the initial investment requires time, and things like rain and tree shade impact the timeline for achieving returns on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The payback period refers to the time it takes a solar system to earn back its initial cost. According to our analysis of data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), NASA and the EIA, the average payback period for solar installations in Boston is 12 years.
- Annual solar savings in Boston: On average, Boston homeowners can save $1,043 per year by adopting solar energy, according to our calculations based on data from the EIA, NASA and the Department of Energy.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: According to data we've compiled from NASA and the EIA, by switching fully to solar, you can plan to see a total savings of around $17,041 after 25 years.
Energy savings in Boston from going solar
In addition to monetary savings, adopting solar energy reduces your carbon footprint and environmental impact. We've calculated the estimated CO2 emission reductions you can realize by going solar based on data from NASA and the EPA.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 40 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 1000 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
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What solar incentives are available in Boston?
Homeowners in Boston can qualify for several solar incentives. Some are available across the state for all Massachusetts residents, and others are determined by your utility company, municipality and city.
Per the DSIRE, here are the solar incentives available for Massachusetts residents:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Property Tax Incentive Renewable Energy Property Tax Exemption | Solar energy systems used for heating or cooling: out-of-pocket expenditures by the owner for the components and labor Wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, solar thermal, solar PV, and other solar energy systems: the assessed value of the system |
Personal Tax Credit Residential Renewable Energy Income Tax Credit | 15% |
Sales Tax Incentive Renewable Energy Equipment Sales Tax Exemption | 100% exemption |
Industry Recruitment/Support Alternative Energy and Energy Conservation Patent Income Tax Deduction (Personal) | 100% deduction |
Rebate Program Cape Light Compact- Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Appliances Refrigerator and Freezer Recycling: $125 Electric Clothes Dryers: $50 Clothes Washer: $350 Dehumidifiers: $30 Room Air Purifiers: $40 Room Air Conditioner: $40 Heating & Cooling Oil Heating System: Up to $800 Propane Heating Equipment: Up to $2,300 Oil Water Heater: Up to $400 Propane Water Heater: Up to $800 Heat Pump Water Heater: Up to $600 Central AC/Heat Pump: Up to $250/ton Mini-Split Heat Pump: Up to $250/ton Programmable Thermostats: Up to $25 WiFi Thermostat: Up to $100 Solar Domestic Hot Water heater: $500 - $1,500 Home Electronics Advanced Power Strips: Varies Home Insulation Limited Time Enhanced Incentive: 75% Year-Round Tenant Incentive: 100% Enhanced Residential Program: 100% Lighting LEDs: Varies Home Energy Assessment: Free |
Loan Program Mass Save - HEAT Loan Program | $25,000 ($50,000 for some expanded HEAT offerings) |
Performance-Based Incentive Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) Program | (Base compensation rate + compensation rate adders - greenfield subtractor) * total kWh generated - value of energy generated |
Loan Program Mass Solar Loan Program | Maximum required: $35,000; maximum possible: $60,000 |
Rebate Program Residential and Small-Scale Ground-Source Heat Pump Rebate Program | New GSHP Rebate: $2,000 per ton with adders to eligible applicants Retrofit Existing GSHP Rebate: varies with installation costs |
Rebate Program Commonwealth Woodstove Change-Out Program | Standard Residential: Pellet Stove: $1,000 - $1,750 Catalytic Woodstove: $750 - $1,250 Non-Catalytic Woodstove: $500-$1,250 Fully Automated Wood Stove: $1,500 - $1,750 Low-Income Residential: Pellet Stove: $2,500 - $3,250 Catalytic Woodstove: $2,250 - $2,750 Non-Catalytic Woodstove: $2,000-$2,750 Fully Automated Wood Stove: $2,750 - $3,250 |
PACE Financing Local Option - Energy Revolving Loan Fund | Financing amount locally determined; 20-year financing term |
Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SREC-II) | Varies, depending on market supply and demand |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels. |
What are common factors to consider before hiring a Boston solar installer?
Take time to reflect on these questions prior to hiring a solar installation service provider.
What size system do you need?
Your household's energy use and the solar system's production ratio determine the appropriate panel system size for you. Bigger houses tend to use more power and will potentially need larger solar installations. An undersized system risks inadequate energy generation to fully power your home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Specific permits and state or local requirements could affect your solar project. You’ll need to obtain the proper permits through your local building department and schedule an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all residences get equal amounts of sunlight. The tree density, rain levels and harsh weather can impact sunlight amounts. If your home doesn't get adequate sun, it may require additional panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
A solar battery facilitates the storage of extra power in solar panel systems. This is especially useful when you're trying to prevent power loss in overcast weather conditions. The extra battery storage can increase the cost of installation.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
Several solar panel varieties are available, each varying in design, life expectancy and efficiency. These factors impact pricing, the rate of panel replacement and the amount of roof space you'll need.
Our methodology for selecting solar companies
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
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