Best 5 Solar Companies in Westfield, MA

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Westfield

The purchase price and efficiency of solar panels often hinge on the provider that mounted them. Make your choice based on the following vital factors.

Licensing and Training

Massachusetts requires new solar PV 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 certifications from standards organizations and trade groups. The top 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 Westfield

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels provide a lower price point but produce less power. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.

If you'd like to charge an electric car or use your solar power in dark weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By selecting the right components, you can make your system more productive and user-friendly. Not every solar company offers these optional components, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's a priority for you.

You can plan to spend about $20,300 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Westfield. Check the table in this section to get an idea of the amount Westfield solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.

Financing Solar Energy in Westfield

Choosing the ideal financing option will impact your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include loans, leases, cash payments, and power purchase agreements. We advise making a cash payment or using a solar loan for the best return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also have full ownership of your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to reduce your total costs. Solar loans are another solid option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in installments while still benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) lets you pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. We generally don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. We advise working with a contractor that offers multiple financing options. Speak with each salesperson about what's available, and get 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 Westfield.

A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to new residential solar equipment purchased through 2032. Extra incentives may be available through city and state governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.