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Best 5 Solar Companies in Waltham, MA
The best solar company in Waltham is SunPower by BlueSel Home Solar.
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- Updated 2024-04-18 00:00:00
With Waltham's clear skies and below-average rainfall, it's a great area for families and businesses seeking to harness the additional sunlight by buying panels from one of the best solar companies. With all the options to choose from in this vibrant community, you might feel overwhelmed searching for a top-notch provider. Discover Waltham's top-rated solar companies and learn crucial decision-making tips on this page.
5 Best Solar Companies in Waltham
Brands are algorithmically curated from a database of local service providers near you. We require a minimum number of Google reviews and average ratings for provider inclusion.
SunPower by BlueSel Home Solar
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Based on 22 reviews
Sunrun Fusion New England
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Based on 18 reviews
EnergySage
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Based on 1001 reviews
Boston Solar
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Based on 1280 reviews
Brightway Energy
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Based on 28 reviews
Ranking Methodology
We assessed dozens of Waltham solar providers, using the following criteria to select the best:
- Service offerings and warranties: Solar companies should stand behind their systems and services with warranties. We evaluated how each installer responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on timeliness and customer satisfaction.
- Panel quality and brand offerings: The leading solar companies stay up-to-date with new technology, offering equipment from innovative, dependable manufacturers.
- Feedback and reviews from customers: Most Waltham solar contractors have both favorable and unfavorable reviews. However, a good review ratio reflects a company's trustworthiness and responsiveness to issues.
- Educational programs and business model: Solar technicians must be good teachers. They should use their years of experience address your questions on how to look after your system and maximize its performance.
- Certifications and credentials: Each installer on our list meets state and city licensing requirements and stays up to date with industry best practices. Many of them have served the Waltham community for over 15 years.
Facts about Waltham
- Average Max Temperature:56°F
- Solar Payback Period:12 years
- Average Daily Sunlight:52%
- Homes Powered by Solar:5,581
- Average Annual Energy Bill:$1,601
- Solar Power per Capita:90.9%
Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers multiple advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Lowered energy bills: With a solar array, you create power without paying the tacked-on costs of grid-connected power. You can eliminate your bills completely if you go off-grid. Plus, a significant number of states offer net metering, which permit you to earn money by selling your unused energy back to the grid.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Embracing solar is a surefire way to decrease your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
- Better energy independence: Photovoltaic solar panel systems with energy storage systems function through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on the power grid for your safety and well-being.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Waltham Homeowners?
The state of Massachusetts offers multiple solar incentives to help minimize your solar system costs. Here's a breakdown of eligible solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type:Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
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
Incentive Type:Personal Tax Credit
Incentive Amount:
15%
Incentive Type:Sales Tax Incentive
Website:http://www.mass.gov/dor/individuals/taxpayer-help-and-resources/tax-guides/salesuse-tax-guide.html
Incentive Amount:
100% exemption
Incentive Type:Industry Recruitment/Support
Incentive Amount:
100% deduction
Incentive Type:Rebate Program
Website:https://www.capelightcompact.org/home-energy-assessments/resrebates/
Incentive Amount:
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
Incentive Type:Performance-Based Incentive
Website:http://masmartsolar.com/
Incentive Amount:
(Base compensation rate + compensation rate adders - greenfield subtractor) * total kWh generated - value of energy generated
Incentive Type:Loan Program
Website:https://www.masssolarloan.com
Incentive Amount:
Maximum required: $35,000; maximum possible: $60,000
Incentive Type:Rebate Program
Website:http://www.masscec.com/learn-about-ground-source-heat-pumps
Incentive Amount:
New GSHP Rebate: $2,000 per ton with adders to eligible applicants
Retrofit Existing GSHP Rebate: varies with installation costs
Incentive Type:Rebate Program
Website:http://www.masscec.com/get-clean-energy/residential/commonwealth-woodstove-changeout
Incentive Amount:
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
Incentive Type:PACE Financing
Incentive Amount:
Financing amount locally determined; 20-year financing term
Incentive Type:Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program
Website:http://www.mass.gov/eea/energy-utilities-clean-tech/renewable-energy/solar/rps-solar-carve-out-2/
Incentive Amount:
Varies, depending on market supply and demand
Incentive Type:Personal Tax Credit
Website:https://www.ecowatch.com/solar/ev-appliance-solar-tax-credit-calculator
Incentive Amount:
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.
How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Waltham
The purchase price and efficiency of solar panels often depend on the solar company that mounted them. Here are some important factors 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. Solar providers can also pursue certificates from trade groups and standards organizations. The most prestigious ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.
Cost of Solar Panels in Waltham
The type of solar panels you purchase decides how much power 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 recommended for large residential installations, but they are ideal for small projects like converting RVs and sheds.
You can also add electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can enhance your solar system's performance. Not all solar contractors provide these additional features, so look for a company that installs them if it's crucial for you.
Generally speaking, it will cost about $20,300 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Waltham. This table displays more specific prices for different solar panel types and system components in your area.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,240.71 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $967.76 |
Thin-Film | $565.77 |
Solar Battery | $794.06 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,977.71 |
Financing Solar Energy in Waltham
There are a plethora of ways to pay for a solar energy system, and the right one will reduce your expenses. A few of the most common options include power purchase agreements (PPAs), leases, cash payments, and loans. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most cost-effective choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the next best option. As with a car loan or mortgage, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for cost-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a fluctuating rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in specific circumstances. We recommend working with a provider that offers multiple financing options. Speak with each salesperson about what's available, and obtain more than one estimate for the best odds of keeping within your spending limits.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Waltham.
You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, local governments and utilities may have their own financing plans and rebates that could reduce your total cost even more.
Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
---|---|
1 kW | 2.0 years |
2 kW | 3.9 years |
5 kW | 9.8 years |
10 kW | 19.6 years |
Frequently Asked Questions about Solar in Waltham
Most Waltham homeowners spend about $1,601 on energy each year. Your costs could drop by $1,198.51 for each kilowatt you generate after you pay off a solar array.
Yes, solar energy is gaining popularity in Waltham. Some homes already benefit from solar power on-site or through utility grids, and they're fortified by a state solar economy with 10400 job opportunities and counting.
Yes, new solar systems translate to higher property values according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL.) Homeowners could project a $20 property value increase for each dollar they save on energy. Therefore, $600 in energy savings could boost your property value by $12,000.
One common way to calculate your home's solar viability is by using PVWatts. This free, powerful tool considers tree cover, panel efficiency, local weather and topography, and system size to determine how much electricity your array could generate. However, it's not a substitute for consulting with a solar energy professional, who can build a full estimate with the most updated data.
The average Waltham solar system size is 4.5 kilowatts (kW). However, your final system size depends on your household's electricity usage. Your surrounding shading, roof size, and panel model could also impact your final result. A professional solar company will consider these factors and determine the right system size for your home.
The average payback period for a solar loan in Waltham is 11.9 years. By paying off extra principal each month, you can shorten the payback period and own your system faster.
Net metering is a billing mechanism that credits solar homeowners for any excess electricity they generate and feed back to the grid.
Some states or energy providers mandate you to participate in net metering when purchasing your solar system, while others give you a choice. Either way, once you participate, you'll get a check or bill credit for your excess generation at a wholesale or retail rate.
Sources
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