Get expert answers to the most common questions about solar panels, installation, costs, and how solar brokerage works in New England.
Get Your Free QuoteSolar panels convert sunlight into electricity through photovoltaic cells. When sunlight hits the solar cells, it creates an electric field that generates direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter then converts this DC power into alternating current (AC) electricity that powers your home.
Any excess electricity is sent back to the grid through net metering, earning you credits on your utility bill. This process is completely silent and requires no moving parts.
Yes! Solar panels actually work more efficiently in cooler temperatures. While shorter winter days mean less sunlight, modern solar panels can still generate significant electricity even on cloudy days.
Snow typically slides off panels or melts quickly due to their dark surface. Massachusetts receives excellent solar irradiance year-round, making it one of the top states for solar savings despite the climate.
Solar panels typically last 25-30 years or more. Most manufacturers offer 20-25 year warranties guaranteeing at least 80% efficiency after 20 years.
Inverters usually need replacement after 10-15 years, but the panels themselves can continue producing electricity for decades. Many panels installed in the 1980s are still working today.
Solar costs in Massachusetts vary depending on how you choose to purchase your system. Here are the four main purchasing options:
Pay for your entire solar system upfront. Average cost is $3.00-$4.00 per watt before incentives ($18,000-$24,000 for a typical 6kW system). After the 30% federal tax credit and Massachusetts SMART incentives, your net cost is $12,000-$16,000. This option provides the highest long-term savings and fastest payback period (6-8 years).
Finance your solar system with $0 down and monthly payments. Solar loans typically offer 10-20 year terms with competitive interest rates (3-7% APR). Your monthly loan payment is often less than your current electric bill, providing immediate savings. You still qualify for all tax credits and incentives.
Pay nothing upfront - we install panels on your roof and you buy the electricity they produce at a discounted rate (typically 10-20% below utility rates). No maintenance costs or system ownership responsibilities. Great for those who want solar savings without ownership. Contract terms are usually 20-25 years.
Pay for 20 years of solar electricity upfront at today's rates, locking in your energy costs. No monthly payments after the initial investment. You avoid future electricity rate increases while enjoying predictable energy costs. Similar savings to cash purchase but structured as an energy purchase rather than equipment ownership.
Which option is best? It depends on your financial goals, tax situation, and preferences. We'll help you analyze all options to find the best fit for your specific situation.
Massachusetts homeowners typically save $1,000-$2,000 per year with solar. Over 25 years, total savings range from $30,000-$60,000+ depending on your system size and electricity usage.
With rising electricity rates, your savings increase each year. Many customers see their electric bills drop to just the $10-15 monthly connection fee.
SolarizeNe is the most affordable solar option in the New England area. Through our extensive network of vetted installers and competitive bidding process, we consistently deliver the lowest prices while maintaining the highest quality standards.
Our brokerage model allows us to negotiate better deals than you could get going direct to installers, ensuring you get maximum value for your solar investment.
The federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows you to deduct 30% of the cost of installing a solar system from your federal taxes. This credit is ending in December 2025.
For example, if your solar system costs $20,000, you can claim a $6,000 tax credit. This is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in your tax liability, not just a deduction.
Act Now: We encourage customers pursuing solar savings to take advantage of this substantial credit before it's too late. Don't miss out on thousands in savings!
The physical installation typically takes 1-3 days depending on system size and roof complexity. However, the entire process from signing a contract to system activation takes 2-4 months.
This timeline includes permitting, utility interconnection approval, and inspection. We handle all paperwork and coordination to make the process as smooth as possible.
Not necessarily. If your roof is in good condition and less than 10 years old, it's usually fine for solar installation. We perform a thorough roof assessment during the site visit.
If roof work is needed, it's most cost-effective to complete it before solar installation. Solar panels can actually protect and extend the life of the roof area they cover.
Roof + Solar Program: We offer a special program that combines roof replacement with solar installation for $0 out of pocket costs when getting solar. This allows you to get both a new roof and solar system with convenient financing options, maximizing your investment and ensuring optimal performance. *Qualification is based on individual homes and customers must qualify.
Standard grid-tied solar systems shut off during power outages for safety reasons. This protects utility workers from electrical hazards while repairing lines.
If you want backup power during outages, you can add battery storage to your system. This allows you to use stored solar energy even when the grid is down.
Massachusetts Battery Incentives: Massachusetts offers attractive state incentives for battery storage systems that can significantly reduce the cost of adding backup power to your solar installation, making energy independence more affordable.
Most Affordable Batteries: SolarizeNe offers the most affordable battery storage systems in the New England area, combining competitive pricing with top-quality battery technology for maximum value and reliability.
A solar brokerage acts as your advocate in the solar marketplace. Instead of being tied to one installer or product, we work with multiple vetted installers and manufacturers to find the best solution for your specific needs.
We handle the comparison shopping, negotiate pricing, and ensure quality installation - all while providing ongoing support throughout the process.
Benefits of using a solar broker:
No - our services are free to homeowners. We're compensated by installers in our network, similar to how insurance brokers or mortgage brokers work.
You often save money by using a broker because we negotiate competitive pricing and help you avoid costly mistakes. Our expertise ensures you get the right system at the best price.
Solar panels require very little maintenance. Rain typically washes away dirt and debris. In most cases, no regular cleaning is needed.
We recommend an annual system check to ensure optimal performance and inspect electrical connections. Our monitoring system alerts us to any performance issues immediately.
Typical solar warranties include:
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