Solar Panel Savings in Boston, MA
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Boston, Massachusetts. Based on 3.8 peak sun hours/day and 27.8¢/kWh average electricity rate.
3.8
Peak Sun Hours/Day
27.8¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
7.1 yr
Payback Period
$33k
25-Year Savings
Boston Solar Overview
Calculate Your Boston Solar Savings
Boston average: $142/mo
South-facing roofs produce the most energy
Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup
Annual Production
kWh/year
Annual Savings
per year
Net System Cost
after 30% ITC
Payback Period
break-even time
25-Year Total Savings
$63,158
Monthly Savings
$154
Federal Tax Credit
$5,634
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Boston | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $18,780 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,634 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $13,146 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $3.13/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Boston
Sun Hours vs National Average
Boston gets 16% less sun than the national average, but high-efficiency panels compensate.
Climate Advantages
- 192 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 44°F — cooler temps actually improve panel efficiency
- Average roof size: 1,960 sq ft — enough for a 108-panel system
Boston Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $18,780 system, that's a $5,634 credit. Valid through 2032.
Massachusetts State Incentives
Massachusetts SMART program; SRECs at $200-$350/MWh; sales tax exemption.
Net Metering — Eversource Energy
Eversource Energy offers net metering in Boston. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Boston
2.8
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
46
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.6
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 6,658 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.
Solar Energy in Boston, Massachusetts
Boston, Massachusetts receives an average of 3.8 peak sun hours per day, offering adequate solar resources for homeowners looking to reduce their electricity bills. With electricity rates averaging 27.8¢ per kWh from Eversource Energy, well above the national average of 16¢/kWh, solar panels offer exceptional savings potential.
A typical 6kW solar system in Boston produces approximately 6,658 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $1,849 annually. The system pays for itself in about 7.1 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 18+ years of the system's warranty life.
Boston has a solar penetration rate of 3% — indicating early-stage solar adoption with tremendous growth potential as prices continue to fall. The cost of living index of 141 (national average: 100) means higher electricity costs, which amplifies solar savings.
Other Cities in Massachusetts
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Boston, MA?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Boston is approximately $18,780 before incentives ($3.13/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $13,146. Massachusetts SMART program; SRECs at $200-$350/MWh; sales tax exemption.
How many peak sun hours does Boston get?
Boston, MA receives an average of 3.8 peak sun hours per day and approximately 192 sunny days per year. While below the national average, solar panels can still provide significant savings due to advancing panel technology.
What is the solar payback period in Boston?
The average solar payback period in Boston is approximately 7.1 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $33,104.
Does Boston have net metering?
Yes, Boston has access to net metering through Eversource Energy. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.
Is solar worth it in Boston, MA?
Absolutely. With a 7.1-year payback period and $33,104 in 25-year savings, solar is an excellent investment in Boston. The 30% federal tax credit and above-average electricity rates help make solar financially attractive.