Solar Panel Cost in Boston, MA
Updated 2026 guide to solar panel prices, savings, and payback period in Boston.
Estimated Solar Savings
Solar Panel System Costs in Boston, MA
Below are estimated costs for different solar panel system sizes in Boston, including the 30% federal solar tax credit.
| System Size | Cost Before Incentives | Federal Tax Credit (30%) | Net Cost | Est. Annual Production |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 kW | $12,600 | -$3,780 | $8,820 | 5,548 kWh |
| 6 kWMost Popular | $18,900 | -$5,670 | $13,230 | 8,322 kWh |
| 8 kW | $25,200 | -$7,560 | $17,640 | 11,096 kWh |
| 10 kW | $31,500 | -$9,450 | $22,050 | 13,870 kWh |
| 12 kW | $37,800 | -$11,340 | $26,460 | 16,644 kWh |
What Affects Solar Panel Cost in Boston?
The average cost of solar panels in Boston, MA is approximately $315/watt before incentives. For a typical 6kW residential system, that means a total cost of about $18,900 before the federal tax credit.
After applying the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), your net cost drops to approximately $13,230.Boston homeowners typically see a payback period of 6 years and save an estimated $42,000 over 25 years.
Factors that affect your cost in Boston:
- System size: Larger systems cost more but have a lower cost per watt
- Equipment quality: Premium panels and inverters cost more but offer better efficiency
- Roof complexity: Steep roofs, multiple levels, or shading can increase installation costs
- Local labor rates: Installation costs vary within the Boston metro area
- Local permits: Permitting costs and requirements vary by municipality in Boston
- Incentives: State and local programs can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost
Solar Incentives Available in Boston
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit
30% Federal Tax Credit (ITC)
Massachusetts homeowners can claim the 30% federal ITC and stack it with the state's SMART program and SREC-II credits for maximum savings.
State & Local Incentives
SMART Program (Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target)
RebateThe SMART program provides fixed incentive payments per kWh of solar production for 10 years, replacing the previous SREC-II program.
Massachusetts State Tax Credit
Tax CreditMassachusetts offers a state income tax credit for solar installations.
Sales Tax Exemption
Sales TaxSolar energy equipment is exempt from the state's 6.25% sales tax.
Property Tax Exemption
Property TaxSolar installations are exempt from local property tax increases for 20 years.
Mass Save Rebates
RebateAdditional rebates available through Mass Save for battery storage and energy efficiency paired with solar.
Net Metering
Massachusetts has strong net metering policies. Residential solar customers receive full retail rate credits for excess generation up to a system capacity of 10 kW.
AvailableSRECs
The SREC-II program has been replaced by the SMART program, which provides production-based incentives. Existing SREC-II systems continue to earn SRECs under the previous program.
Est. Value: $250-$350 per SREC (legacy SREC-II)
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Solar Panel Cost FAQ - Boston, MA
The average cost of solar panels in Boston is approximately $3.15 per watt before incentives. A typical 6kW residential system costs about $18,900 before the 30% federal tax credit, bringing the net cost to around $13,230.
The typical payback period for solar panels in Boston is approximately 6 years. After that, you'll enjoy free electricity for the remaining 15-20+ years of your system's life, saving an estimated $42,000 over 25 years.
Boston homeowners can take advantage of the 30% federal solar tax credit, which reduces your system cost by 30%. Massachusetts also offers net metering, SRECs, and various state-level incentive programs. Check our incentives page for the complete list.
Boston homeowners can save an estimated $42,000 over 25 years by going solar. Actual savings depend on your electricity usage, system size, roof orientation, and available incentives. With electricity rates averaging $0.26/kWh in Massachusetts, solar provides significant long-term savings.
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