MassachusettsSolar Panel Costs & Savings
Massachusetts averages 3.8 hrs of peak sun per day with an average payback period of 6 years. Homeowners can save $54,800 over 20 years.
Peak Sun Hours
3.8 hrs
per day
6kW System Cost
$20,400
before incentives
Payback Period
6 yrs
average
20-Year Savings
$54,800
estimated
Solar Cost Breakdown in Massachusetts
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| 6kW System Cost ($3.4/W) | $20,400 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$6,120 |
| State Tax Credit (15%) | -$3,060 |
| State Rebate | -$1,000 |
| Net Cost | $10,220 |
Net Metering
Full Net Metering
Electricity Rate
28.58¢/kWh
Avg Monthly Bill
$157/mo
Solar Incentives in Massachusetts
Massachusetts SMART Program
Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target provides per-kWh payments for solar generation over 20 years.
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The federal ITC allows homeowners to deduct 30% of solar installation costs from federal taxes. Available for systems installed through 2032, stepping down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
Massachusetts State Tax Credit
Massachusetts offers a personal income tax credit of 15% of solar system cost, up to $1,000.
Solar Potential by ZIP Code in Massachusetts
| ZIP | City | Sun Hours | Annual Savings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 02601 | Hyannis | 4.0 hrs | $2,058 | 6.9 yrs |
| 02301 | Brockton | 3.9 hrs | $2,007 | 7.1 yrs |
| 02001 | Abington | 3.9 hrs | $2,007 | 7.1 yrs |
| 02701 | Attleboro | 3.9 hrs | $2,007 | 7.1 yrs |
| 01001 | Agawam | 3.8 hrs | $1,955 | 7.3 yrs |
| 01101 | Springfield | 3.8 hrs | $1,955 | 7.3 yrs |
| 01501 | Holden | 3.8 hrs | $1,955 | 7.3 yrs |
| 01601 | Worcester | 3.8 hrs | $1,955 | 7.3 yrs |
| 02101 | Boston | 3.8 hrs | $1,955 | 7.3 yrs |
| 01701 | Framingham | 3.8 hrs | $1,955 | 7.3 yrs |
| 01801 | Woburn | 3.8 hrs | $1,955 | 7.3 yrs |
| 01201 | Pittsfield | 3.7 hrs | $1,903 | 7.5 yrs |
| 01301 | Greenfield | 3.7 hrs | $1,903 | 7.5 yrs |
Compare With Other States
More Data for Massachusetts
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Massachusetts?
A typical 6kW solar system in Massachusetts costs approximately $20,400 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit ($6,120) and state incentives, the net cost is approximately $10,220.
How long does solar take to pay for itself in Massachusetts?
The average solar payback period in Massachusetts is 6 years, faster than the national average of 9.4 years. After payback, homeowners enjoy free electricity for the remaining system life.
Does Massachusetts have net metering?
Massachusetts has full net metering. Homeowners receive full retail rate credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid.
How much sun does Massachusetts get for solar?
Massachusetts averages 3.8 peak sun hours per day, which is 0.7 hours below the national average. A 6kW system produces approximately 8,322 kWh per year.
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Data verified March 2026 · Source: NREL, DSIRE, EIA