Solar Panel Savings in Cambridge, MA
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Based on 4 peak sun hours/day and 26.9¢/kWh average electricity rate.
4
Peak Sun Hours/Day
26.9¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
6.8 yr
Payback Period
$34k
25-Year Savings
Cambridge Solar Overview
Calculate Your Cambridge Solar Savings
Cambridge average: $141/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
$64,456
Monthly Savings
$157
Federal Tax Credit
$5,526
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cambridge | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $18,420 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,526 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $12,894 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $3.07/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Cambridge
Sun Hours vs National Average
Cambridge gets 11% less sun than the national average, but high-efficiency panels compensate.
Climate Advantages
- 197 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 49.8°F — cooler temps actually improve panel efficiency
- Average roof size: 1,588 sq ft — enough for a 88-panel system
Cambridge Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $18,420 system, that's a $5,526 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 Cambridge. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Cambridge
2.9
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
48
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.7
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 7,008 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 Cambridge, Massachusetts
Cambridge, Massachusetts receives an average of 4 peak sun hours per day, offering adequate solar resources for homeowners looking to reduce their electricity bills. With electricity rates averaging 26.9¢ 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 Cambridge produces approximately 7,008 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $1,887 annually. The system pays for itself in about 6.8 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 18+ years of the system's warranty life.
Cambridge has a solar penetration rate of 5.3% — showing growing adoption of residential solar, with significant room for expansion. The cost of living index of 127 (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 Cambridge, MA?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Cambridge is approximately $18,420 before incentives ($3.07/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $12,894. Massachusetts SMART program; SRECs at $200-$350/MWh; sales tax exemption.
How many peak sun hours does Cambridge get?
Cambridge, MA receives an average of 4 peak sun hours per day and approximately 197 sunny days per year. This is near the national average, providing good conditions for residential solar panels.
What is the solar payback period in Cambridge?
The average solar payback period in Cambridge is approximately 6.8 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 $34,281.
Does Cambridge have net metering?
Yes, Cambridge 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 Cambridge, MA?
Absolutely. With a 6.8-year payback period and $34,281 in 25-year savings, solar is an excellent investment in Cambridge. The 30% federal tax credit and above-average electricity rates help make solar financially attractive.