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The 6 Best Solar Companies in Massachusetts

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Author Icon By Tamara Jude + 1 other Reviewer Icon Reviewed By Roger Horowitz Updated 03/04/2024

Massachusetts is one of the top 10 states for solar energy. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, nearly 20% of its electricity comes from the sun. This stat indicates that going solar in the Bay State is an excellent decision for homeowners. However, with so many solar companies available, it can be difficult to choose the right one. 

Our top recommendation for Massachusetts residents is SunPower because it offers some of the highest-performing solar panels and multiple ways to contact its support team. Sunrun is the runner-up and a great choice for Massachusetts homeowners who want more financial flexibility with going solar. We also recommend Momentum Solar, which offers a quick, streamlined, accessible installation process.

We spent more than 770 hours researching the best solar companies nationwide, comparing providers’ reputations, warranties, costs, and more. We also interviewed industry experts and surveyed thousands of homeowners to find the best providers. Learn all about our top six solar company picks for Massachusetts residents below.


Compare Solar Companies Across Massachusetts

SunPower landed at the top of our list due to its comprehensive warranties and robust service selection. You can see how other providers compare in the table below. 

Company Star Rating Warranties Payment Options Link
4.8
25 years Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA GET QUOTE
4.4
10–25 years Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA GET QUOTE
4.4
25 years Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA GET QUOTE
4.4
10–25 years Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA GET QUOTE
4.2
25 years Full purchase, loan, lease GET QUOTE
4.5
N/A N/A GET QUOTE
No results were found.

*Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings are accurate as of March 2024.


What Should You Know About Going Solar in Massachusetts?

You should know how much a solar panel system for your Massachusetts home might cost you, the available incentives, common solar terms, and how you can pay for a system. This will help better prepare you when dealing with a salesperson. 

How much does a solar panel system cost in Massachusetts?

Does Massachusetts offer solar incentives?

What solar energy terms should I know?

How do I pay for solar panels?

What warranties come with solar panels?

Massachusetts’ standard 6-kilowatt (KW) solar panel system is typically around $21,240.* However, the actual cost of your solar panel system will vary depending on various factors, such as the size of the system, the installation location, complexity, and the type of solar panels you pick. The cost may also vary depending on the company’s technology and your region.

Yes, Massachusetts provides plenty of tax incentives and rebates for its residents. Every homeowner is eligible for the federal government’s 30% solar investment tax credit. A reliable solar company can help you find and apply for solar incentives.
There are also various Massachusetts solar incentives in addition to the federal tax credit. We will provide more information about these further down the article.

You may come across some unfamiliar terms when speaking with solar company representatives. Here are some key and their definitions: 

  • Active monitoring: This refers to the real-time tracking and analysis of various performance metrics in a solar energy system. It includes monitoring electricity production, system health, and environmental conditions.
  • Inverter: This component converts direct current (DC) power generated by your solar system into alternating current (AC) power that runs your home.
  • Solar panel efficiency rating: This is the percentage of sunlight that solar panels convert into usable electricity. The higher the efficiency rating, the better the energy production.
  • Solar battery backup: This stores excess energy generated by solar panels. It enables you to use the stored energy when there is no sunlight, such as at night or during power outages. It also provides greater energy independence and resilience against grid failures.

There are different solar financing options suitable for various budgets and financial objectives. Most companies offer two or more payment options, which include a full purchase or loan. Generally, a full purchase or loan is the most cost-effective option for solar installation. 

However, there is also the option of solar leasing, which may work for some people, depending on their situation. Nevertheless, we recommend you opt for a full purchase or loan because they offer more benefits than leasing.

Here is a list of the most common payment options:

  • Full purchase: This gives you complete system ownership, qualifying you for all tax incentives and rebates. 
  • Power purchase agreement (PPA): The solar company retains system ownership and only charges you for the solar energy you use each month.
  • Solar loan: This option requires smaller monthly payments for a set time frame and grants you full ownership.
  • Solar lease: You can lease the system from the solar provider and make monthly payments for its use. Check out our guide on this option to see if a solar lease is worth it for you.

We recommend choosing an installer with a 25-year warranty to ensure full coverage throughout the lifetime of your solar system. Here are the three most common types of warranties and what they cover:

  • Manufacturer’s warranty (or product warranty): Protects the individual solar system components in case of defects.
  • Workmanship warranty: Covers installation in case of poor workmanship or faulty installation materials.
  • Performance (or power production) guarantee: Certifies the solar system’s output as outlined in your contract.

Massachusetts’ Top Solar Energy Companies

SunPower: Top Pick
Sunrun: Runner-up
Momentum: Most Affordable

Our Top Solar Company Picks for Massachusetts

SunPower

4.8

SunPower offers some of the most energy-efficient systems in the solar industry. We like that the company uses its own solar components, a rarity in the residential market. These components, paired with Maxeon solar panels, create a streamlined system built for improved performance. You can also pair your SunPower system with the company’s SunVault energy storage for backup power and add an electric vehicle (EV) charger for convenient and cheaper at-home charging.

How We Scored SunPower

SunPower received 4.8 out of 5 stars via our scoring methodology. Here’s how it did in each category:

  • Solar Equipment and Services (15 out of 25 points): SunPower offers quality solar panel installation, active monitoring services, and solar battery and EV charger installations. It doesn’t provide energy audits or roofing services and relies on third-party installers for these services.
  • Warranty and Performance Guarantees (22 out of 25 points): It provides 25-year product and labor warranties and a performance guarantee. It falls short by not offering roof leak protection.
  • Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications (15 out of 15 points): SunPower has several certifications, including a BBB accreditation, high customer scores, and no active lawsuits. It focuses on hiring installers certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), showing the company’s commitment to quality.
  • Financing Options (15 out of 15 points): SunPower offers all possible payment methods and has an in-house financing department, unlike Elevation or Sunrun.
  • Industry Experience (10 out of 10 points): The company is a pioneer in the solar industry with 39 years of experience.
  • State Availability (10 out of 10 points): SunPower serves all 50 states to some degree. However, its specific service areas, including Massachusetts, can change depending on the ZIP code.

Pros and Cons

Pros Builds customized high-efficiency residential systems Manufactures in-house components, batteries, and EV chargers Offers 25-year comprehensive system coverage Cons Has received reviews mentioning equipment and customer support issues Is more expensive than other providers, per online reviews Limits customizations to SunPower-manufactured products

Warranty and Financing

Warranty

SunPower includes a comprehensive 25-year warranty that covers all solar system components, additional equipment add-ons, and workmanship. You’ll also receive a power production guarantee that promises at least 92% of your panel’s listed output after 25 years.  

Financing Options

✔ Full purchase
✔ Loan
✔ Lease
✔ PPA

Reputation and Reviews

SunPower is accredited by the BBB and holds an A+ rating. Examining reviews told us that many homeowners were pleased with their SunPower systems’ performance overall. Some reviews mentioned issues with customer service and faulty equipment.

Sunrun

4.4

Sunrun offers long-term leasing options for customers not interested in owning their systems. The company protects its systems with 25-year coverage, including monitoring and maintenance. Leased systems receive insurance coverage for theft and damage.

We like that Sunrun offers its BuilderChoice New Homes Program to help customers integrate solar into their new homes. You also receive a dedicated team to handle their project’s building and permitting paperwork, ensuring all equipment is installed to code.

How We Scored Sunrun

Sunrun scored a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Here’s how it did across our key categories:

  • Solar Equipment and Services (15 out of 25 points): Sunrun offers solar panel and battery installation but uses third-party installers. This is becoming common in the industry, but having in-house installers leads to better communication and quality. The company also doesn’t provide roofing services or energy audits but provides active monitoring assistance.
  • Warranty and Performance Guarantees (19 out of 25 points): Sunrun offers quality warranties, including a 25-year manufacturer and labor warranty, but it doesn’t provide a performance guarantee
  • Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications (13 out of 15 points): Sunrun has a good reputation with customers and has a high customer reviews score on its BBB profile.
  • Financing Options (13.5 out of 15 points): The company doesn’t offer in-house financing but provides more warranty coverage for customers interested in solar leasing than other providers, such as SunPower.
  • Industry Experience (9 out of 10 points): Sunrun has been in the solar industry for 17 years, making it a veteran compared to many competitors.
  • State Availability (8 out of 10 points): The company serves 18 states, including Massachusetts.

Pros and Cons

Pros Offers 24/7 customer support Provides 25 years of coverage and maintenance for lease customers Provides insurance protection for panel damage and theft Cons Focuses primarily on leasing systems Is often cited for poor customer service in reviews Has shorter warranty coverage for purchased systems

Warranty and Financing

Warranty

Sunrun includes a 10-year inclusive warranty covering the product, workmanship, and roof penetration for purchased systems. Leasing customers receive 25 years of coverage, including insurance protection for panel damage or theft. 

Financing Options

✔ Full purchase
✔ Loan
✔ Lease
✔ PPA

Reputation and Reviews

Sunrun has an A+ rating with the BBB and an accreditation by the organization. Positive reviews praise the company for its system coverage, and negative ones cite problems with customer service.

Momentum

4.4

Momentum Solar creates a smooth and timely installation process for homeowners. The company provides progress updates through its app to keep you informed about your installation time line. We like that Momentum tailors each system to customers’ energy needs and offers additional battery upgrades in some locations.

How We Scored Momentum Solar

Momentum received 4.4 out of 5 stars. Here’s how it did in each category:

  • Solar Equipment and Services (18 out of 25 points): Momentum offers plenty of solar services, including panel and battery installation. However, it doesn’t provide any roofing services. We do like the company’s dedicated customer web portal. 
  • Warranty and Performance Guarantees (16 out of 25 points): The company provides robust warranties, including 25-year warranties for products and labor. However, it doesn’t include any production warranty like many other top providers. 
  • Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications (13 out of 15 points): The company has a positive reputation on popular review sites such as the BBB.
  • Financing Options (15 out of 15 points): Momentum features an in-house financing department, making it a go-to for a solar loan. It also scored all points in this category because it offers every payment option.
  • Industry Experience (8 out of 10 points): Momentum has been in business since 2009, so it’s one of the newer companies out there.
  • State Availability (7 out of 10 points): Momentum limits its service areas for more personalized customer service, and your available service options might change according to your ZIP code in Massachusetts.

Pros and Cons

Pros Helps customers apply for solar incentives Offers in-house installation only Provides multiple solar panel options for better customization Cons Doesn’t offer a power production guarantee Includes only five years of roof penetration coverage Sells solar batteries only in select areas

Warranty and Financing

Warranty

Momentum includes a 25-year manufacturer and workmanship warranty for its systems. 

Financing Options

✔ Full purchase
✔ Loan
✔ Lease
✔ PPA

Reputation and Reviews

Momentum has an accreditation and A+ rating with the BBB. Analyzing homeowner reviews informed us that customers appreciated the company’s helpful customer service team and system performance. However, some homeowners faced frequent scheduling delays during the installation process.

Palmetto

4.4

Palmetto Solar provides superior customer service through various communication channels, including phone, email, and online chat. The company offers tiered protection plans with system monitoring and remote diagnosis. It installs high-efficiency monocrystalline panels and provides system upgrades such as battery storage and EV chargers.

How We Scored Palmetto Solar

Palmetto received 4.4 out of 5 stars via our scoring methodology. Here’s how it did across our key categories:

  • Solar Equipment and Services (20 out of 25 points): Palmetto offers an impressive selection of solar services, including installing solar batteries and EV chargers. We particularly appreciate the fact that the company employs its installers.
  • Warranty and Performance Guarantees (16 out of 25 points): Palmetto’s warranty options aren’t as exceptional as Sunrun’s, but they align with industry standards. The company provides 25-year coverage on products and 10-year coverage on labor.
  • Reputation (14 out of 15 points): Palmetto has an outstanding online reputation on reputable review platforms. Additionally, the company ensures that its installers are certified by the NABCEP.
  • Financing Options (13.5 out of 15 points): Palmetto doesn’t offer in-house financing but accepts all payment methods.
  • Industry Experience (8 out of 10 points): Palmetto has a reasonable amount of experience, having been in the industry for 15 years.
  • State Availability (8 out of 10 points): The company services 17 states.

Pros and Cons

Pros Features multiple customer support contact options Offers tiered system coverage plans for added protection Provides full-service installations with an in-house staff Cons Charges additional monthly fees for active system monitoring Doesn’t offer in-house financing Limits system monitoring to three years

Warranty and Financing

Warranty

Each Palmetto system includes a 25-year panel warranty, a 12-year inverter warranty, a 10-year workmanship warranty, and five years of roof penetration coverage.

Financing Options

✔ Full purchase
✔ Loan
✔ Lease
✔ PPA

Reputation and Reviews

Palmetto holds accreditation with the BBB and has an A+ rating. Many reviewers praised Palmetto for its excellent systems and installation managers. Some reviews mentioned longer-than-average installations due to numerous permitting delays.

Venture Solar

4.2

Venture Solar specializes in residential installation in the Northeast, offering local knowledge of policies and procedures. The company provides customized solar systems paired with efficient solar panels. Homeowners can add battery storage from leading manufacturers, including Tesla and Enphase. We like that Venture’s 25-year warranty on service, parts, and installation helps keep your system running longer. 

How We Scored Venture Solar

Venture Solar scored 4.2 out of 5 stars. Here’s how it did in each category:

  • Solar Equipment and Services (16 out of 25 points): Venture offers solar panel and battery installation with active monitoring but doesn’t provide EV charger installation services or energy audits. 
  • Warranty and Performance Guarantees (25 out of 25 points): Venture stands out for its top-tier warranty coverage with 25 years on labor, products, and performance.
  • Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications (13 out of 15 points): The company maintains an excellent reputation with high ratings on its BBB profile. 
  • Financing Options (14 out of 15 points): Venture offers impressive financing options through an in-house financing department but doesn’t offer PPAs.
  • Industry Experience (7 out of 10 points): Venture has only operated for eight years.
  • State Availability (7 out of 10 points): As of early 2024, the company only serves three states.

Pros and Cons

Pros Includes 25 years of system and roof coverage Offers system monitoring through its mobile app Offers transparent financing details online Cons Doesn’t sell solar batteries or EV chargers Maintains a smaller service area Requires a phone number to receive an online quote

Warranty and Financing

Warranty

Venture Solar provides a 25-year bumper-to-bumper warranty that covers workmanship and system parts and a power output guarantee.

Financing Options

✔ Full purchase
✔ Loan
✔ Lease

Reputation and Reviews

Venture has an A+ rating with the BBB but no accreditation. The company has mostly positive reviews, with many homeowners praising its comprehensive full-service installation and knowledgeable staff. However, some customers expressed frustration over its poor scheduling process, including frequent cancellations.

Boston Solar

Best Massachusetts Installer
4.5

Boston Solar has offered residents local solar insight and knowledge for over 11 years. The company builds custom solar solutions to suit each homeowner’s needs and budget. We like that this local company provides full-service installations with NABCEP-certified staff trained in the latest solar technology. Boston Solar also offers pest and snow guards for additional panel protection. 

How We Scored Boston Solar

Boston Solar earned 4.2 out of 5 stars, which is higher than many other local installers we rate. Here’s how it did across our key categories:

  • Solar Equipment and Services (16 out of 25 points): Boston Solar offers all standard solar panel installation services, such as panel and battery installation performed by in-house installation crews.
  • Warranty and Performance Guarantees (22 out of 25 points): The company includes quality warranty coverage with 25 years on labor and product with a power production guarantee.
  • Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications (12 out of 15 points): Boston Solar maintains a fairly positive reputation on popular review sites and focuses only on hiring NABCEP-certified installers. 
  • Financing Options (10.5 out of 15 points): it only offers full purchase and solar loan options.
  • Industry Experience (7 out of 10 points): The company started in 2011, making it a newer solar energy provider in Massachusetts.
  • State Availability (6 out of 10 points): Boston Solar services a couple New England states and offers services across select towns and cities in Massachusetts. Your service options might change according to your ZIP code.

Pros and Cons

Pros Only hires NABCEP-certified installers Offers battery storage solutions from Tesla and Enphase Provides added panel protection against pests and snow buildup Cons Costs more than larger companies, per customer reviews Offers service only in select New England areas Provides limited panel and inverter customization

Warranty and Financing

Warranty

Boston Solar includes 25-year warranties for its panels and inverters. Additional coverage includes a 10-year workmanship warranty and a 10-year power production guarantee. 

Financing Options

✔ Full purchase
✔ Loan

Reputation and Reviews

Boston Solar holds a B rating with the BBB but has no accreditation. Homeowners praised the company’s speedy installation and knowledgeable staff in online reviews. Some homeowners experienced communication issues, including no-shows for appointments and no follow-up calls.


What Is the Cost of Solar Panel Installation in Massachusetts?

We found that an average-sized, 6 kW system in Massachusetts costs around $21,240. This price is higher than the national average of $20,650, but several factors will affect what you pay for your solar panel installation.* These factors include the following:

  • Household electrical demand: You may require a larger and more expensive system if your household has high monthly electricity consumption.
  • Labor: The labor cost will differ depending on your location and solar provider.
  • Panel quality: Considering that more expensive equipment doesn’t always guarantee higher savings is important. The cheapest option may also sacrifice value in the long run, so it’s worth reviewing your options carefully.
  • Purchasing option: There are various purchasing options available, including paying with a lump sum, taking out a loan or lease, or entering into a PPA. Each option has advantages and disadvantages and can affect how much you’ll spend in the short and long term.
  • System and panel size: The size of your system and panels is the most significant factor in determining your installation cost. The larger the system, the higher the cost. 

Use the table below to understand better what going solar in Massachusetts might cost you.

Cost per Watt*Cost per System SizeCost After Incentives
$3.54$17,700 for 5-kW$12,390
$3.54$21,240 for 6-kW$14,868
$3.54$24,780 for 7-kW$17,346
$3.54$28,320 for 8-kW$19,824
*Cost data via EnergySage

You can save money on solar panels and installation by using Massachusetts’ solar incentives. These tax credits and rebates are available to qualifying system owners as part of the Bay State’s push to make better use of solar energy. 

Most solar systems produce more energy than your home needs. Net metering programs allow solar system owners to sell this excess energy to their electric company for utility bill credits. Eversource and National Grid are the two main utility companies participating in Massachusetts net metering.

This program allows you to receive payments from your utility company for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of solar power you generate for 10 years. Program payment rates vary based on your location.

Owners or tenants of a residential property located in the commonwealth who aren’t a dependent of another taxpayer and who occupy the property as their primary residence are eligible for a 15% state tax credit on purchased residential solar systems.

Massachusetts doesn’t make system owners pay property tax on the additional value solar panels they add to their homes.

This exemption prevents you from paying the state’s 6.25% sales tax on your solar panel system.


What Areas Do Solar Installation Companies Service in Massachusetts?

As we mentioned with Boston Solar, many solar installers’ service areas change based on your ZIP code or city. Use our tool below to see the top solar installers that service your city.


Are There Solar Regulations in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts has regulations on solar energy installations. These regulations affect permitting, interconnection, net metering, and incentives for solar energy systems. Massachusetts has proactively promoted solar energy adoption through multiple policies and programs, including the SMART program, which provides incentives for solar installations.

A vital regulation that helps you is Massachusetts’ solar easement laws, sometimes called solar access laws. These laws help facilitate and protect private solar access and aim to prevent shading or obstruction from neighboring properties to enable successful solar energy generation. The laws provide a legal basis for you to enforce solar easements. For example, a homeowners association (HOA) can’t prevent you from installing solar panels through these laws.
However, regulations can evolve, so checking the latest updates from official sources such as the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) or relevant local authorities is essential to ensure compliance with current regulations before planning a solar installation project.


What Should You Look For in a Solar Company?

Remember the following factors when comparing potential Massachusetts solar installers: 

Availability

Various companies provide different coverage areas, meaning a company may only cover a few specific cities even if listed for full state coverage. Therefore, it’s essential to verify the coverage area of any potential company and ensure that it includes your city or ZIP code. Additionally, it’s advisable to check with the company regarding its installer’s locations to guarantee that they offer local services.

Customer Reviews

We suggest you check online reviews from reputable websites such as BBB, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews. It’s important to read both positive and negative reviews to get an idea about the experiences of current and former customers. Pay attention to the details about customer support, panel quality, installation, repairs, and warranty claims.

Financing Options

Consider choosing solar companies that allow you to pay for your solar system up-front or have loan options. These financing methods offer the best return on investment and the shortest solar payback period. You may also qualify for federal and state solar incentives by choosing these financing options. Remember that solar leases and PPAs may not have the same financial advantages as the panels remain under the solar company’s name.

Solar Brands

The solar panel brands available differ among installers. Some companies provide well-known solar products, while others limit their offerings to in-house panels. High-quality solar panels deliver optimal power production and energy savings potential. Compare product catalogs of different solar installers to find the right solar panel that suits your needs and budget.

Warranty

Investing in a solar company that offers a 25-year equipment warranty is highly recommended. Solar panels typically have an average life span of 25 years, and a warranty covering that time frame ensures you’re protected. You should also look out for those that offer a 25-year manufacturer (or product) and workmanship coverage. Additionally, some companies provide power performance warranties that guarantee panel performance for a specific time frame. Your panels will remain in excellent condition throughout the entire warranty period.

QUICK Tip
The best companies offer 25-year warranties in each of these cases, though some limit their workmanship warranty to 10 years. We recommend finding a company that provides at least 20 years of coverage for each warranty type.

Years of Experience

According to professional installers we’ve talked to, choosing solar companies that have been in the industry for at least 10 years is ideal. However, you should also consider companies with extensive business experience, even if they’re new to solar. This is because some established companies often acquire existing solar companies to enter the industry. Inevitably, it’s important to look for a proven track record of reliability and longevity, as this will provide peace of mind for the future.


What Questions Should You Ask a Solar Installer?

There are over a dozen questions you can ask a solar installer to ensure its team is right for the job. Here’s a list of questions you should ask:

  • Are you a NABCEP-certified installer or do you work with certificated installers? Do you have or work with master electricians?
  • Do you assist with solar tax incentive research and applications?
  • Do you have examples of local solar projects and reviews from your current customers?
  • Does your company use in-house installers or third-party contractors?
  • What additional solar services do you offer? What’s included in my contract? What services do you offer at cost?
  • What financing options do you offer? Do you offer financing directly through your company or specific lenders?
  • What is my estimated solar savings and solar payback period?
  • What is the condition of my roof? Will I need additional repairs or upgrades completed before installing solar panels? What about extra services such as tree removal or electrical upgrades?
  • What official licenses and insurance do you have? What about your subcontractors?
  • What warranties come with my panels? What guarantees are included for roof leaks, panel performance, or other solar-related coverage?

How Can You Save Money on Solar?

We found that most Massachusetts residents pay $3.54 per watt for a solar panel system, which is well above the national average of $2.66.* Using solar energy in your Massachusetts home will be more cost-effective even though you’ll still spend a lot up-front.

Below are some tips that can help you make the most out of your investment:

  • Choose the right financing options: Take a look at the financing options offered by various solar companies. This includes the financing terms, initial payments, interest rates, and lender choices. Choose the most cost-effective option for your budget. However, we recommend considering a full purchase and a solar loan instead of leasing or a PPA. These options will yield higher long-term savings.
  • Compare solar equipment: Review the equipment details listed in each solar installer’s quote, such as the number of panels required for installation and any additional solar components. Compare your options and choose the best panels for your energy needs. Investing in high-efficiency panels is ideal, but if your home energy needs are low, you don’t need that much power production.
  • Get multiple quotes: You should get quotes from at least three providers. Your quotes should include potential savings estimates, solar equipment, payback period, and warranty coverage.
  • Take advantage of solar incentives: Use federal and state solar incentives to help reduce investment costs. We discovered that some programs in Massachusetts require lengthy paperwork and approvals, so take your time to read all qualifications and make a note of any deadlines.

Steps to follow
Installing solar panels is a multistep process involving coordination between you, the solar company, local officials, and utility providers. Below are the key phases:

This involves an in-person or virtual meeting with a solar provider to discuss your energy usage and savings potential. You should have a recent electricity bill on hand to help estimate system size and electricity offset.

The company surveys your roof to check structural integrity, shade, and space and identify any electrical upgrades needed. This informs your system’s design.

The provider uses site survey data to design a custom system for your roof and energy needs. After you sign the paperwork, the company files permits with local authorities. Permit approval often takes two to four weeks.

Crews deliver equipment and install the solar panels and electrical components. The installation typically takes one to two days for most homes.

The system is inspected by local officials to ensure it meets codes and approved designs. This final approval takes two to four weeks on average.

This involves a final utility approval. Your system will then switch on and start offsetting your electricity costs.


Which Solar Company Should You Choose?

We recommend SunPower because it offers some of Massachusetts’ best all-around solar panel installations. The company also provides fully customized, high-efficiency solar energy systems, and you’ll receive some of the best-performing solar panels in Massachusetts. 

Sunrun is another great option if you’re interested in the financial flexibility of its leasing plans. Momentum might be for you if you’re mainly concerned about customer service and using all available local incentive programs.

Do careful research before deciding which provider to hire. Look at warranties, installation options, customer support availability, and customer reviews. We also suggest getting a quote from at least three companies to compare pricing.


Other Massachusetts Home Service Resources


FAQ About Solar Companies in Massachusetts

Do solar panels increase home value in Massachusetts?

A solar energy system can increase the overall value of your home. The installation is viewed the same as upgrades like kitchen expansions, finished basements and updated bathroom fixtures. According to a 2015 study by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, solar increased the value of a home by an average of $15,000.

However, that increase only applies to homeowners that own their solar systems. Leasing a system or using a PPA will actually decrease the value of your home in Massachusetts by 3%–8%.

Does Massachusetts have a solar tax credit?

Yes. You can receive a 15% credit on the final cost of your solar installation to offset your income taxes, limited to a $1,000 state tax reduction when you purchase a new home solar system in Massachusetts. This is in addition to the federal solar tax credit.

How do I choose a solar company in Massachusetts?

Compare multiple providers’ product selections, warranties, costs, reviews, years of experience, installation processes, and availability to help you choose the right Massachusetts solar company. Our guide ranks and rates the top solar companies in Massachusetts and provides more tips for finding the right company for you.

Can an HOA restrict solar panels in Massachusetts?

No. Thanks to Massachusetts’ solar access laws, you can legally prevent HOAs from imposing regulations that prohibit solar power systems or impose unreasonable limitations.


Our Rating Methodology

The This Old House Reviews Team is committed to providing comprehensive and unbiased reviews to our readers. After over a thousand hours of research on solar companies, interviews with experts, and common customer needs, we’ve created a detailed rating system for solar providers based on six factors:

  • Solar equipment, installation, and services (25%)
  • Warranty and performance guarantees (25%)
  • Brand reputation and certifications (15%)
  • Financing options (15%)
  • Experience (10%)
  • Availability (10%)

Total scores are divided by 20 for a final 5-point rating scale.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.