Why Solar?
How much does solar cost?
Solar photovoltaic prices are at their lowest ever. A typical residential PV system costs about as much as an economy car. Because of current subsidies and incentive programs, your system can pay for itself in 5-7 years. Financing is available through local banks.
What incentives are currently available?
- There is a 30% federal tax credit on the total cost of your PV installation
- Renewable Energy Certificates or RECs incentive program
- Massachusetts offers a $1000 tax credit on your PV array
- Solar is property tax exempt
- No sales tax on PV systems
How will a PV system affect my house value or taxes?
A solar PV system will increase your home’s resale value and is exempt from additional property taxes. Owned solar arrays also make your home more attractive to buyers should you ever decide to sell.
What size system do I need?
Each solar array is unique and we customize it to fit your needs. We will consult with you first so that our team can design the perfect system based on the size of your roof, your average electrical usage, budget, and any future add-ons you may be considering like mini-splits, electric vehicle chargers, or other green home technology.
What will I have to do to maintain my system?
There is little to no maintenance required for PV systems. Rain will clean your PV array of dust, and snow will melt off quickly. Your system can be monitored via the internet and smartphone. We also offer various warranties on part and workmanship, so you will never have to worry about upkeep.
How long do solar PV systems last?
Solar PV systems are designed to last 25-30 years. Many PV systems installed in the 1980s are still going strong. The solar panels we offer today are more efficient and more affordable, so you can count on clean energy for decades.
What about insurance?
Most residential PV systems are covered under your existing homeowner’s policy. A small annual fee may be added.
If I can’t put solar on my roof, are there other options?
Yes. We offer ground mount, pole mount, and carports. A free site visit from one of our consultants will help determine what kind of solar installation is best for you.
What products do you offer?
We source our products from some of the most trusted manufacturers including Enphase, REC, Q Cell, SolarEdge, Fujitsu, Mitsubishi, IronRidge, and more.
Do you offer a solar lease or power purchase agreement (ppa)?
We do not offer leases or ppa’s. Owning solar for your home is by far a wiser investment. When you sign a lease or ppa, you give up rebates and incentives worth thousands of dollars. What’s more, you are contractually obligated to keep your roof clear of anything that might reduce solar production which could mean being forced to cut down trees on your property. Leasing makes it difficult to sell your home because the new owner must take on the terms of the lease which average around 20 years. For those reasons and many more, we only advocate owned solar. We are happy to discuss this issue with you further at any time.
What are the economic benefits of owning solar?
Solar saves you money on your electricity bills and protects you against rising and unpredictable electricity rates. How much you save depends on utility rates and solar prices and policies. The average savings after paying off the system is $15K-$75K!
How do I protect my system from small animals and pests?
Keep your solar panels safe from unwanted guests! Squirrels, birds, and other small animals can nest under panels, causing costly damage to wiring and creating fire hazards from dry debris. Our pest and critter guards shield your system, protect the animals, and save you from expensive repairs.
How do I prepare my solar system for snow?
Winter weather brings unique challenges for solar panels, as their smooth glass surface allows snow to slide off quickly, potentially causing roof avalanches. Protect your home and loved ones by installing snow guards. These barriers help prevent falling snow from damaging property, injuring pedestrians, and leading to costly repairs. Stay safe and prepared during winter with snow guards for your solar system!
Who is the best solar installer?
There are many solar installers in Western Massachusetts. Northeast Solar stands out because in addition to great prices and high quality products, we deliver a level of customer service and care that isn’t matched by other companies before, during and well after installation. We’ve installed over 1,500 systems over ten years and have our own licensed electricians and installers on staff. We’re also a certified B Corp, which means we are committed to serving the community.