If you live in Massachusetts and are exploring solar options, you’re in one of the best places in the country to do so. Thanks to the Bay State’s generous incentives, progressive clean energy goals, and strong grid infrastructure, going solar here can be both affordable and effective. After comparing the best solar companies operating in the state, we recommend Sunrun as the best overall choice for homeowners in Massachusetts.
Our top pick is based on an evaluation of each company’s reputation, average cost, warranties, weather adaptability, and service options, as well as how well each provider works within Massachusetts’ unique regulatory framework.
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Top Solar Companies in Massachusetts
The top solar installers in Massachusetts provide competitive pricing for installations and have a strong understanding of the state’s solar conversion process. Here are our recommendations:
- Sunrun: Best Solar Panel Leasing
- Venture Solar: Best Northeast Regional Installer
- Tesla Solar: Best Solar Tech
- Trinity Solar: Best Certified Installer
- Blue Raven Solar: Most Reputable
Comparing Top Solar Companies in Massachusetts
Before you explore each solar installer’s specifics, here’s an overview of how they compare on key factors such as warranty length and BBB rating.
| Provider | Our Score (Out of 5) | BBB Rating* | Warranty Length |
|---|---|---|---|
A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship | ||
A+ | 25 years | ||
F | 25-year equipment, 10-year workmanship | ||
 | A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship | |
A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship |
*The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is an independent organization that evaluates companies’ reputations and responsiveness to customers. Ratings are accurate as of May 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Sunrun is our top recommendation in Massachusetts because of its deep understanding of the state’s energy needs and legislation.
- According to our survey, the average cost of a 6–8 kilowatt solar energy system in Massachusetts is approximately $14,545. We also found that the average price for one professionally installed solar panel in the state is $939.
- There are several solar incentives available in Massachusetts to help you save on your system, including the federal solar tax credit and a solar renewable energy certificate (SREC) program.
Our Reviews of the Best Massachusetts Solar Companies
Get a better idea of what each top Massachusetts solar installer offers below. Remember that the best company for you will depend on a combination of your needs and budget and may not be the cheapest or highest-rated option.
Sunrun
Company Overview
- Sunrun has reached over one million customers nationwide while maintaining a strong presence throughout Massachusetts.
- Its team expertly navigates Massachusetts’ solar incentives, including the SMART program, residential tax credits, and net metering policies.
- Sunrun’s systems can withstand Massachusetts’ diverse weather conditions, such as heavy snow loads and coastal storms.
Keep in Mind
- Sunrun provides lease and power purchase agreement (PPA) contracts that can be complex and long-term (20–25 years).
- Some customers report challenges with Sunrun’s customer service responsiveness.
Our Review
Sunrun is a top choice for Massachusetts homeowners looking to go solar without major upfront costs. Since 2007, the company has refined its solar leasing model to work seamlessly with Massachusetts’ regulations, offering comprehensive system monitoring and maintenance throughout its 25-year agreements.
Its 90% performance guarantee provides valuable protection in the variable New England climate. If your system underperforms, Sunrun pays you the difference, which is reassuring during unpredictable winters when solar production can fluctuate. Its partnerships with premium equipment manufacturers, including Tesla Powerwall batteries, help ensure you’ll have reliable backup power during Massachusetts’ occasional nor’easters and storm-related outages.
For budget-conscious Bay Staters, it’s worth noting that while Sunrun’s leasing eliminates initial costs, purchasing your system delivers greater savings over the 25+ year system lifespan, especially important in a state with some of the highest electricity rates in the nation. Fortunately, Sunrun also offers direct purchase and solar loan financing for Massachusetts residents seeking maximum long-term value.
Customer Feedback
Our survey revealed that 86% of Sunrun customers are satisfied or very satisfied with their experience. 44% reported that Sunrun simplified accessing the federal solar tax credit, while 31% found it easy to receive both federal and state incentives, which is a significant advantage given Massachusetts’ generous solar incentive structure. Most respondents (46.5%) saved between $100 and $200 monthly on their energy bills, which is a substantial savings in Massachusetts’ high-cost energy market.
Venture Solar
Company Overview
- Venture’s NABCEP-certified crews provide consistent installation quality, which helps with meeting Massachusetts’ rigorous electrical codes and building standards.
- Its expertise with Massachusetts’ diverse housing, such as historic Federalist homes in Salem and triple-deckers in Boston, results in smarter, more aesthetically pleasing system designs.
- Each installation begins with a comprehensive roof analysis that accounts for regional shading patterns and New England’s distinct sun exposure variations.
Keep in Mind
- Some customers report issues with billing discrepancies and delays in system activation.
- Venture offers fewer battery storage options compared to larger providers.
Our Review
Venture Solar is an excellent option for Massachusetts homeowners who prioritize craftsmanship and system design quality. Its specialized knowledge of New England architecture makes it particularly skilled at handling Massachusetts’ diverse housing styles, such as Cape Cod cottages, Victorian homes in Cambridge, and modern suburban developments along the I-495 corridor.
Unlike companies that rush installations, Venture’s approach includes a detailed analysis of your roof structure, unique seasonal sun patterns, and potential shading from nearby trees. While this thoroughness might extend project timelines during the busy summer installation season, the resulting systems typically deliver better efficiency and aesthetics, which are important considerations in Massachusetts’ historic neighborhoods with strict design guidelines.
We find that Venture’s project management approach allows for consistent communication throughout the installation process. This is a benefit compared to the sometimes fragmented experience reported with larger national providers.
Customer Feedback
Venture Solar received outstanding feedback in our survey, with an impressive 94% of customers reporting high satisfaction. 95% noted that obtaining solar incentives was straightforward with the company, particularly significant in Massachusetts, where navigating the SMART program and local utility requirements can be complex. We also found that Venture Solar customers reported higher monthly energy savings, with 40% saving between $150 and $300 per month.
Tesla Solar
Company Overview
- Tesla’s integrated ecosystem of solar panels, Powerwall batteries, and electric vehicle (EV) charging creates a comprehensive clean energy solution for Massachusetts homeowners facing high electricity costs.
- Tesla typically offers a lower cost-per-watt than many Massachusetts competitors, with a straightforward online ordering system.
- Its sleek, low-profile panels and solar roof options are a great aesthetic choice in Massachusetts’ upscale communities.
Keep in Mind
- Tesla’s customer support has received mixed reviews from Massachusetts customers, with some homeowners reporting challenges reaching representatives during the complex local permitting process.
- Customers often experience longer wait times between ordering and installation compared to local installers, sometimes extending several months.
Our Review
Tesla offers Massachusetts homeowners a comprehensive clean energy ecosystem, including solar panels, Powerwall batteries, and optional solar roof installations. Its integrated approach works exceptionally well with Massachusetts’ SMART program incentives and can provide valuable backup during coastal and ice storms that cause power outages. Tesla’s pricing runs below the national average of $3.33 per watt, making it one of the more affordable options for Massachusetts installations. Additionally, Tesla’s price match guarantee provides additional value for cost-conscious Bay State residents comparing local quotes.
While Tesla outsources its panel manufacturing (currently using Qcells and other suppliers), all installations include 25-year equipment and performance warranties that align with Massachusetts’ long-term solar incentives. Tesla solar systems make particular sense for Massachusetts residents seeking both solar generation and reliable backup power during harsh winters, as the Powerwall 3 provides superior storage capacity compared to many alternatives in the market.
Customer Feedback
Our survey revealed that 85% of Tesla solar customers would recommend the company to family and friends, with an impressive 95% of respondents being satisfied or very satisfied with their experience. The Tesla Powerwall was overwhelmingly the most popular add-on, with 93% of Tesla customers choosing it over other solar batteries. This suggests that Massachusetts homeowners interested in a Powerwall for the region’s frequent weather-related outages may find it more convenient to hire Tesla for their complete solar installation.
Trinity Solar
Company Overview
- Trinity Solar has expanded from its New Jersey roots to become a leading solar installer across Massachusetts.
- It utilizes a fully in-house installation team, ensuring consistent quality across its Massachusetts projects.
- Its award-winning operations have earned recognition for growth and customer satisfaction throughout the Northeast.
Keep in Mind
- Some customers mention encountering aggressive sales approaches.
- Trinity does not specify a performance guarantee on its website, which is an important consideration for Massachusetts homeowners facing variable seasonal production.
Our Review
Trinity Solar brings more than 30 years of Northeast solar experience to Massachusetts homeowners. Its comprehensive understanding of Massachusetts’ unique SMART program incentives, municipal-specific permitting requirements, and seasonal installation considerations provides big advantages for Bay State residents navigating the solar transition.
Trinity’s fully in-house installation teams deliver consistent quality across Massachusetts service areas, while its dual expertise in both solar and roofing allows for seamless integration of both services. This specialized knowledge is particularly valuable for historic Massachusetts homes that might require structural reinforcement before panel installation.
The company offers flexible financing options, including solar loans and leases that can complement Massachusetts’ unique incentive structure, though prospective customers should note that some reviews mention aggressive sales tactics and the absence of a specific performance guarantee.
Customer Feedback
Among our 74 Trinity Solar respondents, most chose the company primarily for its pricing (31%), with workmanship warranty (20%) being the second most common reason. 66% of respondents reported being very satisfied, with approximately 60% indicating they would recommend Trinity to family and friends. Nearly 22% of respondents estimate monthly energy savings of $500, which is significant in Massachusetts’ high electricity cost environment, while another 19% report saving only $100. This difference suggests that Massachusetts homeowners should focus on clear, direct communication with Trinity Solar to establish realistic expectations about savings potential and installation specifics.
Blue Raven Solar
Company Overview
- Its exclusive BluePower Plus+ program offers $0 down with no payments for 18 months, allowing Massachusetts homeowners to start benefiting from the SMART program incentives before payments begin.
- Blue Raven’s expansion demonstrates strong performance even in Massachusetts’ competitive and highly regulated solar market.
- Its consistently high ratings (4+ stars on both Trustpilot and BBB) reflect exceptional service.
Keep in Mind
- It doesn’t offer extra services, such as EV charger installations or roof repairs, which may be important for Massachusetts homes with older roofing.
- Blue Raven Solar has no solar leases or power purchase agreements (PPAs) available.
Our Review
Blue Raven Solar stands out in Massachusetts’ crowded solar marketplace primarily through its customer-centric approach. While many solar companies struggle with communication issues, Blue Raven consistently earns praise from Bay State homeowners for its transparent processes, responsive team members, and representatives who understand Massachusetts’ specific solar regulations, SMART program requirements, and utility interconnection processes.
What truly distinguishes Blue Raven in Massachusetts is its innovative BluePower Plus+ financing program. This unique payment structure allows you to install solar with zero upfront costs while deferring payments for a full 18 months. This is perfectly timed to let you start accumulating Massachusetts SMART program incentives before your first payment is due. Blue Raven’s focused approach on solar installations means working with specialists who excel at one thing. However, this specialization does mean you’ll need separate contractors for any roof repairs your Massachusetts home might need before installation.
Customer Feedback
Though we surveyed only 24 Blue Raven Solar customers, an impressive 95% reported being satisfied or very satisfied with their experience, and 67% would highly recommend Blue Raven to loved ones. The primary reason respondents (29%) chose Blue Raven was for panel efficiency. This choice appears to have paid off, as more than a quarter (29%) of respondents reported saving $250–$300 on their monthly energy bills after installation.
Local Massachusetts Solar Companies
While national companies like Sunrun and Venture Solar may offer slightly lower pricing, local companies often compensate for this with quicker response times, more personalized service, and a thorough understanding of Massachusetts incentive programs.
When it comes to local solar installers, we recommend Boston Solar. Founded in 2011 in Woburn, this company has successfully installed thousands of residential solar power systems throughout Massachusetts. What makes Boston Solar attractive compared to national providers is its extensive local expertise. For instance, its installation teams are well-versed in navigating Cambridge’s strict historical preservation requirements as well as Cape Cod’s unique coastal weather challenges. We also like that its crews are composed solely of in-house employees, and the company maintains a dedicated customer service team that is well-acquainted with local conditions.
Solar Insights, Regulations, and Incentives in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has established itself as a solar leader in the Northeast. The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) ranked it 12th in the nation (first among New England states) in 2024. The Commonwealth’s commitment to clean energy is shown by its ambitious goal to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, with solar playing a crucial role in this transition. Massachusetts homeowners enjoy faster solar payback periods, as quick as 5–7 years, thanks to high electricity rates averaging 30.4 cents/kWh and generous state incentives.
The Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) program, launched in 2018 and expanded in 2020, has been a primary driver of residential solar growth. However, recent changes to net metering policies have created some uncertainty, with utilities proposing reduced compensation rates for excess solar generation. The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) is currently reviewing these proposals, with decisions expected by late 2025.
Solar Regulations in Massachusetts
Here are some regulations you might encounter when going solar in the Bay State:
- Historic district approval: Solar installations in Massachusetts’ 200+ historic districts require approval from local historic district commissions, with many districts now adopting solar-specific guidelines to streamline the process.
- Utility interconnection standards: All solar installations must comply with the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities’ interconnection standards, with systems under 25 kW eligible for simplified interconnection processes.
- SMART Program compliance: Systems must meet specific technical and installation requirements to qualify for the SMART program, including minimum efficiency standards and certified equipment.
Massachusetts Incentives and Rebates
Massachusetts offers some of the most generous solar incentives in the country, making solar systems significantly more affordable. Visit our Massachusetts solar incentives page for comprehensive details, but here’s a quick overview of what’s available:
| Incentive | Type | Where It Comes From | What It Provides |
|---|---|---|---|
| ConnectedSolutions Program | Performance payment | Utility | Provides additional incentives for installing solar panels with battery storage and payments for participating in demand response events |
| Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC) | Tax credit | Federal | Reduces federal tax liability by 30% of the total solar system cost, including installation. Available through 2032, then drops down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034 |
| Massachusetts Personal Income Tax Credit | Tax credit | State | Offers 15% of the total system cost up to $1,000 maximum credit against state income tax liability |
| Mass Save® HEAT Loan | Financing | State | Offers 0% interest loans up to $50,000 for qualified solar installations, available through participating lenders |
| Municipal Light Plant Solar Rebates | Rebate | Local | Some towns offer additional upfront rebates ranging from $0.50 to $1.25 per watt installed. Varies by location |
| Property Tax Exemption | Tax exemption | State | Provides a 20-year exemption from additional property taxes on the added home value from solar installation |
| Sales Tax Exemption | Tax exemption | State | Offers 100% exemption from the state’s 6.25% sales tax on solar equipment and installation costs |
| SMART Program | Production-based incentive | State | Provides fixed monthly payments based on system size and location for 10 years. Rates vary by utility territory and block allocation but typically range from $0.13 to $0.35 per kWh produced |
How To Choose the Best Solar Company
When selecting a solar installer in Massachusetts, carefully evaluate each company’s credentials and specific offerings for your home’s unique needs. The best solar companies typically have at least five years of experience, strong manufacturer partnerships, and proper certifications, including North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification.
Here is a list of key factors Massachusetts homeowners should consider when comparing solar companies:
- Certifications and insurance: Verify the company has NABCEP certification for its installers and Massachusetts-specific licensing through the DOER. Ask about general liability insurance, which should include a minimum of $1,000,000 in coverage, as well as workers’ compensation insurance.
- Customer support: Gauge the company’s responsiveness during the sales process by asking about project timeline commitments, which are particularly important given Massachusetts’ shorter installation seasons. Check the company’s post-installation support and customer reviews on platforms such as the BBB and Google Reviews, paying special attention to reviews from Massachusetts customers addressing winter performance and SMART program support.
- Experience: Investigate how many years the installer has been operating in Massachusetts specifically and its familiarity with local building codes and historic district regulations. Ask about its track record with the SMART program and Massachusetts utilities’ interconnection processes.
- Financial options: Look for companies offering solar financing options that specifically integrate with Massachusetts’ incentive structures, including cash purchases, solar loans, solar leases, and PPAs. Ask about interest rates, terms, and down payment requirements, as well as how they handle the Massachusetts personal income tax credit and SMART program payments.
- Products and services: Ask about panel and inverter brands that perform well in Massachusetts’ climate extremes, from summer humidity to winter snow loads. Check the company’s solar energy battery storage options. Companies offering complementary services like roof reinforcement and energy efficiency upgrades can be particularly valuable for older Massachusetts homes.
- Warranties: A reputable Massachusetts solar installer should offer a 25-year equipment warranty and a 10-year workmanship warranty at a minimum. The best companies may also offer power production guarantees calibrated for Massachusetts’ seasonal solar variations and roof protection warranties, which are especially important given the heavy snow loads and frequent freeze-thaw cycles.
How Much Does Installing Solar in Massachusetts Cost?
We found that the average cost of a 6–8 kW solar energy system (roughly 15–24 panels) in Massachusetts costs around $14,545 or about $939 per panel*. The top company in our survey for the state, Sunrun, provided a similar average cost per panel of $1,015. Get a better idea of what a standard solar energy system might cost you, plus the cost after applying the federal solar tax credit, in the table below.
| System Size | Cost Per Panel (0.4 kW) | Total Installed System Cost | Cost After the Federal Tax Credit** |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $939 | $11,738 | $8,216 |
| 6 kW | $939 | $14,085 | $9,860 |
| 7 kW | $939 | $16,433 | $11,503 |
| 8 kW | $939 | $18,780 | $13,146 |
**The federal tax credit is worth 30% of your installed solar system cost.
Cost of Solar in Massachusetts vs. the National Average
It’s more affordable to install solar panels in Massachusetts compared to the national average cost of going solar at $19,619.* The average price per panel across the United States is $1,200. To better illustrate how Massachusetts provides a competitive advantage in solar pricing, see the table below.
| Massachusetts | National Average | |
|---|---|---|
| Average System Size (kW) | 6–8 kW | 6–8 kW |
| Price per panel | $939 | $1,200 |
| Average total | $14,085–$22,536 | $18,000–$24,000 |
FAQs About Solar Companies in Massachusetts
Is it worth going solar in Massachusetts?
Yes, going solar is worth it in Massachusetts. The state is one of the most financially advantageous states for solar installation. The combination of high electric bills, generous solar incentives, and additional tax benefits creates excellent conditions for solar investment. Most Massachusetts homeowners see payback periods of 5–7 years, faster than the national average of 8–10 years.
Will Massachusetts pay for solar panels?
While Massachusetts won’t directly pay the full cost of your solar installation, the state offers substantial financial incentives that can cover a significant portion of your investment. The SMART program provides guaranteed fixed payments from your utility for 10 years based on your system’s production. If you encounter someone offering you free solar panels, it’s most likely a solar scam.
What is the 20% rule for solar panels?
The “20% rule” in Massachusetts refers to a utility interconnection guideline that allows for simplified and expedited approval processes for residential solar systems that are sized to produce no more than 20% above the home’s historical annual electricity usage. This rule was implemented to prevent oversizing systems purely for profit while still allowing reasonable production margins.
How We Evaluated Massachusetts Solar Companies
To fairly and thoroughly evaluate solar installers, we developed a 100-point rating system based on real customer experiences, industry expert insights, and our own rigorous testing. We collected detailed quotes, verified licensing and certifications, analyzed thousands of customer reviews, and conducted secret shopping with various home profiles to experience the full sales process firsthand. Each company received scores across six essential categories before receiving a final rating out of 5 stars.
Here’s how we evaluated each company:
- Solar equipment and services (25%): We assessed the tier level and performance specifications of solar panels, inverters, and battery options offered. Companies earned higher scores for providing premium equipment choices, integrated solar roofing options, and EV charging solutions that meet various homeowner needs and budgets.
- Warranty and performance guarantees (25%): We compared coverage periods and terms for equipment, workmanship, and power production guarantees. Companies offering 25+ year comprehensive warranties with clear, straightforward claims processes received top marks, as these protections directly impact long-term system value.
- Brand reputation and professional certifications (15%): We verified each company’s installation credentials, including NABCEP certification requirements for installation teams. We evaluated whether companies use in-house installers or subcontractors and their quality control procedures, giving higher scores to those with consistent, professional installation practices.
- Financing options (15%): Using quotes for typical residential systems across multiple states, we compared price-per-watt costs and financing terms. Companies earned higher scores for providing detailed, itemized quotes, clear explanations of incentives, and realistic production estimates without high-pressure sales tactics.
- Industry experience (10%): We evaluate how many years the company has been involved in the residential solar industry and gauge how that experience translates to quality installation and ongoing support.
- State availability (10%): We assess how extensive the service area is for each company. Companies with a larger service area and higher state availability receive a better score, as they have more knowledge and experience in navigating the complexities of implementing solar solutions across different states.
