Solar Panels in Massachusetts2026 Cost Guide & Incentives
Average cost, state incentives, payback estimates, and how to find certified installers in Massachusetts.
$19,000–$32,000
Avg system cost
$13,300–$22,400
After 30% ITC
4.2 hrs/day
Peak sun hours
$0.249/kWh
Avg rate
Is Solar Worth It in Massachusetts?
Based on a home with a $150/month electric bill in Massachusetts
Est. system size
4.3 kW
Gross cost
$12,581
Federal tax credit
−$3,774
State credit
−$1,000
Year-1 savings
$1,800
20-year savings
$45,911
Estimated payback: 4.3 years — then 15 years of free electricity.
* Estimates assume $2.90/W installed, 92% solar offset, and 3% annual electricity rate inflation. Get an installer quote to confirm your actual savings.
Massachusetts Solar Incentives & Policies
Federal
Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30%
of total system cost — off your federal tax bill
Available through 2032
Massachusetts State
Massachusetts Solar Tax Credit
15%
Up to $1,000 off your state income taxes
Additional Massachusetts Solar Policies
Net Metering: Available — excess energy credited to your bill
Property Tax Exemption: Solar system value exempt from property taxes
Sales Tax Exemption: Solar equipment exempt from state sales tax
Solar Installation Cost in Massachusetts by System Size
| System size | Gross cost | After 30% ITC | Year-1 savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $12,272,800 | $8,589,960 | $1,755,898/yr |
| 7 kW | $17,181,920 | $12,026,344 | $2,458,257/yr |
| 9 kW | $22,091,040 | $15,462,728 | $3,160,617/yr |
| 12 kW | $29,454,720 | $20,617,304 | $4,214,156/yr |
* Costs based on $2.90/W national average. Massachusetts installer pricing may vary ±15%.
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Frequently Asked Questions — Solar in Massachusetts
How much do solar panels cost in Massachusetts?
Solar installation in Massachusetts typically costs $19,000–$32,000 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit and Massachusetts's 15% state credit, most homeowners pay $13,300–$22,400 net.
Is solar worth it in Massachusetts?
Yes — Massachusetts homeowners benefit from 4.2 average peak sun hours per day and relatively high electricity rates ($0.249/kWh). The 30% federal ITC combined with 15% state credit up to $1,000 + smart program srec incentives make the financial case strong for most homeowners.
What state incentives are available for solar in Massachusetts?
15% state credit up to $1,000 + SMART program SREC incentives. On top of state incentives, all Massachusetts homeowners qualify for the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Your solar system is also exempt from property tax assessment. Solar equipment is exempt from sales tax in ${s.name}.
How long is the payback period for solar in Massachusetts?
Based on Massachusetts's average electricity rate of $0.249/kWh and 4.2 peak sun hours, most homeowners see payback in 4.3–6 years. Systems then produce free electricity for 15–20+ more years.
Does Massachusetts have net metering?
Yes — Massachusetts has a net metering policy that credits your utility bill for excess electricity your system sends back to the grid. This significantly improves your ROI.