Solar Panel Cost Guide in Pepperell, MA (2024 Update)
- Pepperell Solar Installation Cost: $12,674
- 25-Year Savings: $18,497
- Payback Period: 11.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Pepperell
We break down average solar pricing in Pepperell.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Pepperell generally cost about 4.The average Pepperell homeowner needs a 4.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $12,674 with the federal tax credit, or $18,124 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The true cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with.For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average Pepperell homeowners see about $24,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Pepperell
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,905 |
| 3 years | $-7,367 |
| 5 years | $-3,829 |
| 7 years | $-291 |
| 9 years | $3,247 |
| 11 years | $6,785 |
| 13 years | $10,323 |
| 15 years | $13,861 |
| 17 years | $17,399 |
| 19 years | $20,937 |
| 21 years | $24,475 |
| 23 years | $28,013 |
| 25 years | $31,551 |
Top Solar Installers in Pepperell
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners decide to hire a solar installer since putting up solar panels yourself can be a time-consuming project. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Pepperell, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Pepperell
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Pepperell
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that affect your total cost in Pepperell: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $4,060.The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your electric bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Pepperell average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are available from most installers in Pepperell, which can bring down, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.Although solar loans make going solar more accessible for Pepperell homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you select will impact your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $19,501 | 11.9 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $26,457 | 11.7 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $33,639 | 11.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $41,049 | 11.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $48,686 | 11.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $56,551 | 10.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $64,643 | 10.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $72,962 | 10.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since selecting a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you take a look at their list of options before making your decision.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it’s important to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
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 Pepperell, MA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Pepperell?
The average cost of solar panels in Pepperell is about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Pepperell?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Pepperell, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher 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.