Massachusetts Solar Panel Cost & Incentives
How much do solar panels cost in Massachusetts? Compare solar panel installation costs across 5 state, utility & local incentive programs. Find solar panels for your home, heat pump rebates, EV charger incentives & more.
Programs Available in Massachusetts
$3,500 upfront rebate for new electric vehicles. Vehicle must be $55,000 MSRP or less.
$3,500 pos rebate
$3,500 upfront rebate for a used electric vehicle for income-qualified customers.
$3,500 pos rebate
$1,500 upfront bonus rebate on used or new electric vehicles for income-qualified customers.
$1,500 pos rebate
15% tax credit up to $1,000 for residential solar installations, at the homeowner's principal residence only. Unused credits may carry forward.
15% credit (up to $1,000)
Program data sourced live from the Rewiring America API. Utility rates from OpenEI. City solar costs from EnergySage. No data is hardcoded. Run the calculator for your personalised estimate.
Solar Panels for Home in Massachusetts: Overview
Massachusetts has earned a reputation as one of the most solar-friendly states in the country, and for good reason. Electricity prices here are among the highest in the nation, regularly running 30% to 50% above the U.S. average. That sticker shock on utility bills—especially after a few winters of Northeast cold—has pushed a lot of folks to look for alternatives, and solar is the one that gets the most attention. Whether you heat with oil, electric, or natural gas, chances are your electric costs have climbed steadily over the past decade. In my experience covering the market, nothing motivates homeowners like the prospect of slashing a $150+ monthly bill.
The state’s political leadership has been openly supportive of renewables, with aggressive goals for clean energy adoption and plenty of headlines about climate action. But the toolbox looks a little lighter now: the big federal solar incentives, including the 30% Investment Tax Credit and credits for home upgrades, expired at the end of 2025 (thanks to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act). With those federal carrots gone, solar incentives in Massachusetts are now dominated by local and state programs, utility-specific rebates, and renewable energy credits (RECs) that can still make a significant dent in costs for many homeowners. That said, the state still offers some of the nation’s best protections and perks for going solar—if you know where to look.
What holds some back? The upfront cost is still real, and not every roof is ideal for solar. Some homeowners are wary of changing policies—especially around net metering—and others find the whole process (quotes, paperwork, incentives) overwhelming. And in parts of the state with older homes and dense trees, installation can be tricky. Still, with the current structure of Massachusetts solar rebates, net metering, and tax exemptions, solar installations continue to climb, even if the post-federal-credit numbers require a bit more math than before.
Massachusetts Solar at a Glance
Avg. System Cost
$17,500 – $23,000
Payback Period
7–11 years
Annual Sun Hours
2,200 hours
Avg. Electric Bill
$145/month
Solar Market
Top 10 state for residential solar
CO₂ Offset / Year
7,500 lbs/year
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in Massachusetts?
For most Massachusetts homeowners, the total pre-incentive price for an average 6 to 8 kilowatt (kW) residential solar setup lands somewhere between $17,500 and $23,000—roughly $2.80 to $3.20 per watt. That’s a notch above the national average, which hovers closer to $2.60 per watt for comparable systems, but in line with neighboring states like New York and Rhode Island where labor and permitting costs also run high. The main drivers: higher regional installation costs and a fairly saturated network of mid-sized installers (big names like Sunrun and Trinity Solar have a strong presence, but plenty of local shops compete too).
After state and utility-level incentives—such as the SMART program, some upfront rebates (if available), and renewable energy credits—the real out-of-pocket cost usually drops by $3,000–$7,000, depending on your utility, system size, and eligibility. In some cases, the SMART incentive payout alone can take a noticeable bite out of your payback timeline. Costs per watt have drifted downward over the past few years, but not at the breakneck pace seen a decade ago. Supply chain hiccups and strong demand have plateaued prices a bit.
The typical payback period falls in the 7–11 year range for most homes, although I’ve seen numbers as fast as 6 years for big, unshaded roofs and as long as 13+ years for homes with suboptimal orientation or smaller usage. The biggest wildcards are your local electric rate, the precise mix of incentives your town or utility still offers, and whether you’re able to cash in on SMART for the full 10 years. If you’re comparing offers, make sure to look beyond the sticker price—installer quality and ongoing support can vary widely here.
Is Solar Worth It in Massachusetts? Installation Cost & Savings
Let’s cut through the hype: whether solar is worth it in Massachusetts depends on your situation, but for most homeowners stuck paying 25+ cents per kilowatt-hour, the numbers pencil out better here than in much of the country. Those high electric rates are a blessing in disguise if you’re thinking about solar, because every kWh you generate saves you more. Even with the federal 30% tax credit off the table now (as of the end of 2025), Massachusetts’s own incentives—including the SMART program, lucrative net metering, and property/sales tax breaks—still push the payback period into the 7–11 year range for most homes.
But—not every roof works. You’ll need a good chunk of south- or west-facing space, minimal shade (especially from all those mature maples and oaks), and a willingness to invest upfront or finance. Reroofing soon? Factor that into your decision, too. Some folks hesitate because it’s a long-term commitment: once the panels are up, moving or removing them is costly. And policies like net metering or SMART incentives could change, though Massachusetts has a solid history of supporting solar.
What surprises most homeowners is how much the numbers can vary, even house to house on the same street. Installer quotes can swing by thousands, and local programs can tip the scale. The best move: get at least three quotes (from a mix of big names and local shops), check your roof orientation and condition, and ask each installer to show you a line-by-line payback projection. If your roof and finances line up, solar is still a strong bet to hedge against relentless utility rate hikes in Massachusetts—and it doesn’t hurt that every sunny day feels a bit more satisfying.
Net Metering in Massachusetts
Massachusetts still offers one of the nation’s most robust net metering programs, though there have been some tweaks and ongoing policy debates in recent years. For most investor-owned utility customers—think Eversource, National Grid, and Unitil—net metering means you’re credited at the full retail rate for each kilowatt-hour (kWh) your system sends back to the grid, up until you meet your annual electric usage. If you generate more than you use over the course of a year, those excess credits don’t roll over forever—they may expire or be cashed out at a lower rate.
Policy details can vary by utility and even by system size. For example, once your system size goes above 10 kW, or if you’re in certain municipal utility districts, you may see a reduced credit or hit a cap that limits what you can feed into the grid. Some communities (particularly those with their own municipal utilities) don’t participate in statewide net metering at all or have custom policies, so it’s worth double-checking with your provider before banking on these savings.
Homeowners can expect to see a sizable reduction in their utility bills most months, especially in the sunny spring and summer. Just keep in mind that the details on monthly bill credits, annual true-ups, and any fees can vary a bit, so review your utility’s net metering handbook or ask your installer for a walk-through with actual numbers.
Solar Tax Exemptions in Massachusetts
One perk that sets Massachusetts apart is its solar property tax exemption. In plain English: if you install a solar system on your home, the value it adds to your property won’t bump up your assessment for property tax purposes for 20 years. So, if your solar array adds say $18,000 in market value, you’re not paying the town an extra dime in taxes on that for two full decades. That can really cushion the payback math, especially in high-tax municipalities like those around Boston or Cambridge.
On the sales tax front, solar equipment (including the panels, inverters, and batteries) is generally exempt from state sales tax. That saves you an extra 6.25% off the top—an easy $1,000+ on a typical home system. In my experience, these tax exemptions tend to fly under the radar, but they’re real money in your pocket whether you buy outright or finance. Just make sure your installer files the correct paperwork with the local assessor’s office so you don’t miss out.
Battery Storage Incentives in Massachusetts
Battery storage is gaining traction in Massachusetts, especially after some rough winter storms and sporadic multi-day outages in certain towns. Still, batteries almost never pay for themselves on bill savings alone. Without the now-expired 30% federal battery tax credit (which ended December 31, 2025), typical installed costs for a home battery system run $10,000–$15,000 on top of your solar array—sometimes more for larger backup setups.
A handful of utilities (most notably under the ConnectedSolutions program) still offer incentives for homes that allow their batteries to help the grid during peak events. These rebates can offset $1,000–$3,000 over a few years, but you need to be willing to share control and there are limits on eligibility. For most homeowners, the real draw is resilience: knowing the fridge and furnace will run when the power goes out. Just know the financial payback is secondary unless you’re in one of those outage-prone pockets.
My practical advice: batteries make sense for peace of mind, not for pure ROI here. If grid outages aren’t a frequent headache in your area, you may want to wait for tech and price improvements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Massachusetts
Is solar worth it in Massachusetts?
In most cases, yes—especially if you have high electric bills and a sun-drenched, south- or west-facing roof. Electricity rates in Massachusetts are well above the national average, so every kilowatt-hour you generate with solar saves you more than in most states. Even though the federal 30% tax credit expired at the end of 2025, state programs like SMART, strong net metering, and property/sales tax breaks keep payback periods in the 7–11 year range for many homeowners. However, it’s not one-size-fits-all. If your roof is shaded, small, or in rough shape, or if you plan to move within a few years, solar may not be the right financial move. My best advice: get a few personalized quotes, review your roof’s sun exposure, and make sure you understand your utility’s net metering policy before committing.
How much do solar panels cost in Massachusetts?
For a typical home system (6–8 kW), you’re looking at $17,500–$23,000 before incentives. After state rebates, property and sales tax exemptions, and any renewable energy credits, most homeowners can expect to pay about $14,000–$19,000 out of pocket. Quotes can vary pretty widely, though, especially based on equipment quality, installer reputation, and how complex your roof is (think steep slopes or lots of dormers). Larger, more complicated roofs or high-end premium panels will cost more. Smaller, straightforward setups from local installers may be a bit less. Always get several quotes—the spread can be surprising.
What solar incentives are available in Massachusetts?
The federal 30% solar tax credit expired at the end of 2025, but Massachusetts still has solid state-level incentives. The big one is the SMART program, which pays you for every kilowatt-hour your system generates for up to 10 years (payment rates vary by utility and when you apply). Some utilities and towns still offer upfront rebates, though these may be limited or change year to year. Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) have mostly transitioned to SMART, but you might still see credits for battery storage or low-income installs. Property and sales tax exemptions also lower your real costs. Specific local utility rebates may also exist—ask your installer what’s available in your area.
Does Massachusetts have net metering?
Yes—Massachusetts has full retail-rate net metering for most investor-owned utility customers (like Eversource, National Grid, and Unitil). This means you get credited on your bill for every kilowatt-hour your solar system sends to the grid, up to your annual consumption. There are some size limits and caps, and if you’re on a municipal utility, rules might differ. Check with your utility or installer to confirm the details for your address.
Can you get free solar panels in Massachusetts?
Despite what some ads claim, there’s no such thing as truly free solar panels. Some companies offer leases or power purchase agreements (PPAs), where you pay little or nothing upfront but the company owns the system and you pay a monthly fee (usually lower than your utility bill). There are also some low- and moderate-income assistance programs in Massachusetts, but these rarely mean 100% free panels. With leases or PPAs, you give up most of the incentives and long-term savings in exchange for lower upfront costs.
Does Massachusetts offer a solar property tax exemption?
Yes—Massachusetts provides a property tax exemption for residential solar systems for 20 years. That means the value your solar adds to your home won’t raise your property taxes during that period. This is statewide, but it’s smart to double-check with your local assessor’s office to make sure your exemption is processed correctly.
How long until solar pays for itself in Massachusetts?
Most homeowners see solar pay for itself in 7–11 years, thanks to high electric rates and state-level incentives. Factors that move the payback faster: a sunny, unshaded roof, large electric bills, and eligibility for SMART and other rebates. If your system is smaller, your roof is shaded, or you use less electricity, payback could take a bit longer. Always ask for a detailed payback breakdown from your installer based on your unique situation.
Are there solar battery rebates in Massachusetts?
The federal 30% battery tax credit expired at the end of 2025. However, Massachusetts homeowners may qualify for incentives through the ConnectedSolutions program, which pays you if your battery helps the grid during peak demand. The amount varies by utility and how much you participate—typically totaling $1,000–$3,000 over a few years. There aren’t broad, upfront state rebates for batteries, but some local or utility programs may crop up from time to time, so it’s worth checking with your installer or utility for the latest offers.
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Calculate My SavingsSolar Companies in Massachusetts
22 verified installers serving Massachusetts
Future Energy Solar
PremierWork with a local, family-run solar company that handles everything in-house. No subs. One point of contact. Clean installs, great service, and a system built to last. Book your free consultation and see why so many Massachusetts homeowners choose Future Energy Solar. From permitting to install, we handle it all—fast, clean, and stress-free. Your dedicated project manager will guide you through the entire process, keep things moving, and make sure your system gets up and producing power as quickly as possible.
Great Sky Solar
PremierWe are small by design, connected to our community, and hire the best people. We never subcontract any portion of our work, and all of our employees enjoy strong salaries and a healthy work/life balance. On these principles, we've been able to build a truly sustainable company so we can offer you unparalleled service and expert craftsmanship.
SmartRoof Capital
PremierSmartRoof offers an industry leading 30 year warranty, up front rebates, and one point of contact for your solar installation. From the moment you you start interacting with SmartRoof Capital, you will be speaking to a project manager with 5+ years of experience in the solar industry. No entry level sales reps. SmartRoof will fit your solar project to your needs, providing you with the high quality install you deserve.
SRsolarNH
PremierIf you are looking for a straightforward quote, along with the ability to speak directly with the owner from start to finish...Welcome to SRsolarNH. We've been installing Solar Systems since late 2019. We will provide you with an extremely competitive quote and also an education on what Solar is and how it all works. We will not accept a signature and or money until our customers fully understand what they are getting in return and how it'll all work. We look forward to the opportunity of working with you.
OneGrid
PremierLocal New England solar and battery installer with 12 years of experience offering lifetime warranty.
SunFlower LLC x Collins & Sons Electric LLC
PremierSolar is a long-term investment, and it deserves more than a rushed design or a hard sales pitch. At SunFlower, we combine local knowledge, careful planning, and a high level of personal service to deliver systems that are designed to perform and built to last. We stay involved throughout the process, from early planning and permitting to installation and post-project support, so our customers are never left guessing. In a market full of out-of-state sales teams and one-size-fits-all proposals, we focus on doing the work thoughtfully, communicating clearly, and standing behind what we build.
All Energy Solar
PremierOur team of industry professionals have been focused on providing long term, trusted relationships since 2009. Our industry experience allows us to confidently handle every aspect of the solar process. From initial energy analysis and concepts, engineering and design, construction, and monitoring, our team prides itself on being experts in all aspects in our field. We provide clean, green, solar energy solutions for residential, commercial, agricultural, and government clients. All Energy Solar is a trusted leader in the solar energy industry in the upper Midwest and New England -- primarily serving the states of Iowa, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, and Wisconsin. All Energy Solar is one of the few full service solar energy companies that is licensed as a building contractor as well as an electrical contractor. We are also NABCEP certified (North American Board of Certified Electrical Practitioners), the highest technical certification for solar photovoltaic installers and engineers. The experience that comes with these licenses and certifications allows us to deliver full turnkey solar energy solutions with known and proven results. Take comfort in knowing that your solar project will be designed and built to the highest industry engineering standards. Our advanced monitoring system provided to every customer, gives them access to real time solar output, verifying that the system is performing at optimal efficiency while providing the highest financial return.
Palmetto Energy
PremierPalmetto is leading the world into a clean energy future by making it easy for homeowners across the United States to switch from fossil fuels to solar energy. Our end-to-end approach takes the guesswork out of solar savings, guarding individual and natural resources from unnecessary waste.
Viridis Energy Solutions
PremierMassachusetts’ Elite+ Local Solar Installer — Hand-Designed Systems, Not AI Quotes. Every Viridis system is engineered in-house using advanced LIDAR shade analysis and Aurora modeling for real-world production accuracy — not auto-generated estimates. We are a locally owned Massachusetts company with over a decade of experience installing high-performance solar systems across the Commonwealth. Our team understands MA fire code setbacks, utility interconnection requirements with Eversource, National Grid, and Unitil, and the details of the SMART 3.0 20-year incentive program. Unlike many quotes on EnergySage, we don’t rely on automated software to push out fast proposals. We take the time to carefully design your system based on your roof geometry, shading conditions, and long-term energy goals. We specialize in premium panel and microinverter technology, advanced battery storage solutions, and clean installations that are built to perform for decades. Our process starts with a zero-pressure virtual consultation where we share our screen, walk you through your 3D roof model, review shading together, and fine-tune the layout live. It’s collaborative, transparent, and educational. We’re not here to pressure you. We’re here to design it right — and stand behind it long after installation.
Rooftop Power
PremierRooftop Power is a local and family owned and operated solar company servicing Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut. We understand the local markets including rebates, incentives, local weather, building requirements, and other processes that will help to ensure a timely and quality install.
Lunex Power Inc.
PreferredLunex Power Inc is a leading provider of innovative and reliable solar energy solutions that help businesses and individuals save money and reduce their carbon footprint. Our cutting-edge technology and expert team enable us to design, install, and maintain solar systems that are customized to our customers' specific needs and requirements. With Lunex Power, you can enjoy a seamless and hassle-free experience, from the initial consultation to the final installation and beyond. Our commitment to quality, affordability, and sustainability makes us the ideal partner for anyone who wants to harness the power of the sun and create a brighter future for themselves and the planet.
My Generation Energy
PreferredWelcome to My Generation Energy! Since 2009, we've been committed to bringing the benefits of renewable energy to the Cape & Islands and throughout Eastern, Massachusetts. Whether you're a homeowner looking to lower your energy bill or a business aiming to reduce your carbon footprint, we're here to guide you every step of the way. When you go solar with My Generation Energy, we make sure that you will be in contact with the same representative from the initial site assessment to turning on your system. We take care of the entire installation process--from the initial consultation to the final installation, our friendly and knowledgeable team is dedicated to making the process easy and enjoyable. We take the time to understand your unique energy needs and offer tailored solutions that fit your lifestyle and budget. Once your system is live, we will continue to be available to answer any questions you may have years after your installation is complete. That's our ongoing commitment to our customers.
Porter Electrical Contracting
PreferredWe are a solar energy company that specializes in residential solar installation, commercial solar installation, batteries, and EV Chargers. Designed by electricians, installed by electricians. Looking for a local reputable company for your next project? We have you covered!
Wattson Home Solutions
PreferredFully local and family owned since 2008. Offering Solar, Insulation, Ductless minisplits, and Free Mass Save Home Assessments. Solar is just a small part of what we offer here which is very important as it allows us to have multiple legs to stand on.
SGE Solar (Second Generation Energy LLC)
PreferredSince 2008, Second Generation Energy has navigated the changing landscape of solar energy in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire. We stayed ahead of industry trends and regulatory changes, ensuring our clients benefit from the latest technologies and incentives. Our expertise not only helps clients maximize their investment but also simplifies the often complex process of transitioning to solar energy. As SGE Solar continues to grow and evolve, our focus remains on quality, customer satisfaction, and community engagement. Second Generation Energy’s impressive track record since 2008 is a testament to its ability to adapt and thrive in a competitive market. With an ever-increasing number of satisfied clients and glowing reviews, SGE Solar is well-positioned for a bright future in Massachusetts’s renewable energy landscape.
NuWatt Energy
PreferredAt NuWatt Energy, we strive to empower our clients by offering genuine energy independence and enhanced efficiency through our top-notch solar energy and heat pump AC systems. We carefully select premium products from financially stable manufacturers, ensuring that our solutions not only meet but exceed warranty terms, providing long-lasting value. By partnering with us, you are investing in a future of exceptional performance, reduced energy costs, and a positive environmental impact. Trust NuWatt Energy to deliver professional, honest, and reliable renewable energy solutions for your home or business.
Nexis Power
Verified**“Nexis Power is your trusted energy and home solutions provider, proudly serving Massachusetts , New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. Our team is made up of some of the most skilled professionals in the industry, dedicated to delivering exceptional results on every project. We go beyond solar—offering solar and battery installations, roofing services, HVAC solutions, and even tree removal—so homeowners can take care of multiple needs with one reliable partner. Choosing Nexis Power means more than just installing solar panels. It means: ✅ $0 upfront cost options to make switching simple and affordable ✅ Lower energy bills and long-term protection from rising utility rates ✅ Customized solutions designed around your home and lifestyle ✅ Premium products and expert installation you can count on ✅ Full-service convenience—from your roof to your energy system, we’ve got you covered At Nexis Power, we don’t just install systems—we deliver comfort, savings, and peace of mind while helping you build a greener future for your family.”**
Solar Rising LLC
VerifiedHonesty, Integrity, Reliability. Solar Rising, LLC is a full service installation company providing residential and commercial service for PV, battery back up, EV charging stations, electrical services and complete maintenance on small and large scale projects throughout Southeastern Massachusetts. We have over 12 years of experience selling, installing and servicing residential and commercial systems. We are fully Certified, Licensed and Insured for all of your needs. Attention to detail and maintaining a lasting relationship with our customers is key to what separates us from the rest. Sustainability is a top priority for our customers, our business and our lives.
Brightway Energy
VerifiedBrightway Energy is comprised of a small, experienced team that takes pride in serving the communities of Massachusetts and New Hampshire. With a strong local presence, we bring deep expertise and a commitment to exceptional solar installations. We work and play in the communities we serve!
New England Solar + Green
VerifiedWith over 25 years of long-established experience we couldn’t be more invested in renewable energy. We use the latest technology from the world’s top product manufacturers to deliver great solar power installations that will run for decade’s problem free. Local. Turnkey. Professional.
NRGTree Consulting, LLC
VerifiedNRGTree is a team of financial analysts and development experts that has been delivering turnkey rooftop solar solutions to commercial property owners since 2015. Our work began through our network of developers, construction partners, and commercial clients who wanted a solar partner that could do more than just install panels — they wanted a team that could model returns, manage every step of development, and ensure their investment performed exactly as promised. That’s where NRGTree is different. Every member of our team is entrenched in the development process from start to finish — from feasibility and incentive modeling to design, engineering, and construction. This means you work directly with the people responsible for your project’s success, not a chain of middlemen. By keeping everything in-house, we remove unnecessary sales markups, maintain full transparency, and deliver predictable financial outcomes — all while making the process simple, professional, and results-driven.
Renewable Energy Solutions LLC
VerifiedGoing Solar shouldn't be complicated - Let us handle all the details
Supplier data sourced from the EnergySage API via our backend. Ratings and reviews are verified by EnergySage.
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