Best 5 Solar Companies in Lowell, MA

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Lowell

The more thorough your provider search is, the better your solar panels will ultimately function. Here are some essential aspects to consider while shopping for a solar provider.

Licensing and Training

Massachusetts requires new solar photovoltaic systems in the Commonwealth to be installed by a licensed electrician and new solar water heaters to be installed by a construction supervisor. Look for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), one of the solar industry's most credible trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.

Cost of Solar Panels in Lowell

The kind of solar panels you purchase decides how much electricity you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.

You can also add electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can boost your solar system's efficiency. Not every solar provider includes these optional components, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's essential for you.

If you're a resident of Lowell and are looking into a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could expect to pay about $20,300 for materials and labor. Find more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Lowell

Choosing the ideal financing plan will affect your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include loans, power purchase agreements, leases, and cash payments. Most solar experts recommend paying cash or using a solar loan. Cash payments require a large up-front sum, but they save you from paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Like a car or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) permits you to pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, as with an electric bill. We usually don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the panels and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Look for installers that offer multiple payment plans to find the right fit for your financial needs.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Lowell.

You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, utilities and local governments may have their own rebates and financing plans that could reduce your total cost even more.