The 5 best solar installers in Massachusetts
Viridis Energy Local
Why listed: 2026 EnergySage Installer of the Year — one of the most prestigious residential solar awards. Consistently top-rated for customer satisfaction, installation quality, and post-install service.
Boston Solar Local
Why listed: Founded 2011, thousands of MA residential installs. In-house crews (not subcontracted). Strong expertise in Cambridge historical preservation and Cape Cod coastal-weather installs.
Trinity Solar National
Why listed: 30+ years of experience, 100,000+ Northeast installations. NABCEP-certified crews; in-house roof leak warranty. Strong fit for MA's freeze-thaw climate where flashing quality matters.
SunPower (Maxeon) National
Why listed: High-efficiency Maxeon panel manufacturer with one of the strongest residential warranties in the industry (25-year complete-system warranty including labor). Sold and installed in MA via certified dealers.
Sunrun National
Why listed: Largest U.S. residential solar provider. Lease and PPA-focused — pairs well with MA's SMART program and the commercial ITC. National scale = broader equipment options and long-term service.
Massachusetts solar economics in 2026
| Metric | Massachusetts average |
|---|---|
| Average residential rate | $0.30–$0.34 / kWh |
| Typical 8 kW system cost (cash) | $22,000–$28,000 before incentives |
| Average $/W | $2.75–3.60 |
| Average annual production (kWh per kW) | ~1,200–1,350 kWh/kW/year |
| Net metering structure | Net metering at retail (under cap) plus SMART production-based incentive |
| Average cash payback | 9–11 years |
For full state-by-state cost comparison see solar cost by state.
Massachusetts incentives and rebates
- SMART Program: Performance-based incentive paying $0.05–$0.30/kWh produced for 10 years (rate depends on utility, system size, and adders for low-income, brownfield, and storage). Applies to Eversource, National Grid, and Unitil customers.
- State tax credit: 15% of system cost, capped at $1,000.
- Property tax exemption: 20-year exemption for the added home value from solar.
- Sales tax exemption: Solar PV equipment is sales-tax-exempt.
- ConnectedSolutions: Pays homeowners with batteries to let the utility discharge during peak demand events — often $1,000+/year per battery.
- Federal commercial ITC: Lease and PPA structures benefit from the commercial ITC pass-through. See federal tax credit guide.
What to verify before signing in Massachusetts
- Contractor license: Verify with your state contractor licensing authority before signing.
- NABCEP certification: Most reputable installers carry NABCEP-certified installers on staff. Ask which crew member holds the certification.
- Insurance: General liability + workers comp + roofer's insurance separate from electrical insurance.
- References from your county: Permitting and inspection requirements vary. Ask for 2–3 references from your specific county.
- Get at least three bids: Solar bids vary by 20–35% on the same scope of work. See how to compare solar bids.
Got bids from Massachusetts installers? Compare them properly.
Upload up to four solar proposals from any Massachusetts installer. The analyzer compares $/W, production estimates, equipment, and financing structure — and tells you which one to sign.
Analyze My Bids →Frequently asked questions about Massachusetts solar
Does solar make sense in Massachusetts?
Yes for most homeowners with a $150+ monthly electric bill, an unshaded roof, and 8+ years of expected ownership. Massachusetts's specific economics are summarized in the table above.
How much does a typical Massachusetts solar install cost in 2026?
$22,000–$28,000 for an 8 kW system before incentives. Effective net cost depends on your state and utility incentives.
Should I get more than three bids?
Yes — three is a minimum. Four or five is better. Solar bids vary by 20–35% on the same scope of work. See how to compare solar bids.
Are there other reputable Massachusetts solar installers besides these?
Many. The list above represents installers with strong public profiles in Massachusetts; reputable installers exist beyond it. Get bids from a mix and compare them objectively rather than relying on any one list.