Solar Panel Cost Guide in Marblehead, MA (2024 Update)
- Marblehead Solar Installation Cost: $12,074
- 25-Year Savings: $31,012
- Payback Period: 11.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Marblehead
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Marblehead.
In Marblehead, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.The average solar panel system size in Marblehead is around 4.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,074 for a solar installation, or $17,266 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and the cost of going solar for you will look different based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you go with.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $23,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To receive a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installer in Marblehead, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Marblehead
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,351 |
| 3 years | $-6,904 |
| 5 years | $-3,457 |
| 7 years | $-10 |
| 9 years | $3,437 |
| 11 years | $6,884 |
| 13 years | $10,331 |
| 15 years | $13,777 |
| 17 years | $17,224 |
| 19 years | $20,671 |
| 21 years | $24,118 |
| 23 years | $27,565 |
| 25 years | $31,012 |
Top Solar Installers in Marblehead
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using a solar panel installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Solar warranties and repairs are usually included in the cost of installation when you go with a solar company too, which can save you more money after your upfront investment.
If you’d like to make the switch to solar but still aren’t certain which solar panel company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Marblehead
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Marblehead
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few key factors that affect your total cost in Marblehead: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it’s important to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Marblehead, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a solid choice because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it’s crucial to consider that as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Marblehead is the company you get to install your solar panel system. As with choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for instance, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points.Additionally, some companies in Marblehead are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $4.22 | $17,734 | $18,329 | 12.3 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $24,893 | 12.1 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $31,685 | 11.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $38,704 | 11.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $45,950 | 11.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $53,424 | 11.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $61,125 | 10.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $69,053 | 10.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you opt for.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it’s crucial to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a good company.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms closely to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project timeline rebates and warranties.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Marblehead, MA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Marblehead?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Marblehead?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.
Does Marblehead have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future power bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount of energy production.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.