Solar Panel Savings in Dartmouth, MA
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Dartmouth, Massachusetts. Based on 4.6 peak sun hours/day and 21.8¢/kWh average electricity rate.
4.6
Peak Sun Hours/Day
21.8¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
7.9 yr
Payback Period
$60k
25-Year Savings
Dartmouth Solar Overview
Calculate Your Dartmouth Solar Savings
Dartmouth average: $196/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
$59,981
Monthly Savings
$146
Federal Tax Credit
$5,760
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Dartmouth | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $19,200 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,760 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $13,440 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $3.20/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Dartmouth
Sun Hours vs National Average
Dartmouth gets 2% more sun than the national average.
Climate Advantages
- 204 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 53°F — cooler temps actually improve panel efficiency
- Average roof size: 1,673 sq ft — enough for a 92-panel system
Dartmouth Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $19,200 system, that's a $5,760 credit. Valid through 2032.
Massachusetts State Incentives
SMART program; income tax credit (15%, up to $1,000).
Net Metering — Eversource
Eversource offers net metering in Dartmouth. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Dartmouth
3.4
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
55
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.8
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 8,059 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 Dartmouth, Massachusetts
Dartmouth, Massachusetts receives an average of 4.6 peak sun hours per day, providing excellent conditions for residential solar installations. With electricity rates averaging 21.8¢ per kWh from Eversource, well above the national average of 16.63¢/kWh, solar panels offer exceptional savings potential.
A typical 6kW solar system in Dartmouth produces approximately 8,059 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $1,756 annually. The system pays for itself in about 7.7 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 17+ years of the system's warranty life.
Dartmouth has a solar penetration rate of 3.4% — indicating early-stage solar adoption with tremendous growth potential as prices continue to fall. The cost of living index of 137.4 (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 Dartmouth, MA?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Dartmouth is approximately $19,200 before incentives ($3.20/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $13,440. SMART program; income tax credit (15%, up to $1,000).
How many peak sun hours does Dartmouth get?
Dartmouth, MA receives an average of 4.6 peak sun hours per day and approximately 204 sunny days per year. This is near the national average, providing good conditions for residential solar panels.
What is the solar payback period in Dartmouth?
The average solar payback period in Dartmouth is approximately 7.9 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 $59,981.
Does Dartmouth have net metering?
Yes, Dartmouth has access to net metering through Eversource. 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 Dartmouth, MA?
Absolutely. With a 7.9-year payback period and $59,981 in 25-year savings, solar is an excellent investment in Dartmouth. The 30% federal tax credit and above-average electricity rates help make solar financially attractive.