Is Solar Right for Your Home? A Quick Guide for Massachusetts Homeowners

Thinking about going solar in Massachusetts? You’re not alone. With energy prices rising and more people looking for greener, more affordable ways to power their homes, solar has become a popular option across the Bay State. But is it the right choice for your home?

This guide will walk you through what you need to know, without all the technical jargon. Whether you’re curious about how solar works, wondering if your house is a good fit, or trying to figure out the financial side, we’ve got you covered.

Why More Homeowners in Massachusetts Are Going Solar

Let’s start with the big picture. Massachusetts has some of the highest electricity rates in the country, nearly double the national average. (EnergySage) (Power Outage USA) That means going solar can help reduce your monthly bills* and lessen the impact of unpredictable rate hikes.

But cost savings aren’t the only reason people are going solar. Solar energy is clean, renewable, and better for the environment. It also gives you more control over your energy use, especially when paired with programs like net metering (we’ll get into that soon).

In short: If you're looking to save money and reduce your carbon footprint, solar is worth considering.

How Solar Works in Simple Terms

When you install solar panels on your roof, they soak up sunlight and turn it into electricity. That electricity powers your home, just like the power you get from your utility company. The difference? You're generating it yourself, right from your roof.

If your panels make more electricity than you use, the extra energy goes back to the grid. In return, you can earn credits on your electric bill through something called net metering†. When your panels don’t produce enough (like at night or on cloudy days), you can still use electricity from the grid. It’s a flexible system that works with your lifestyle. (mass.gov)

Our How Does Solar Energy Save Money? blog is a great resource.

Is Your Home a Good Fit for Solar?

Not every home is a perfect match for solar, but many are! Here are a few things to consider:

1. Sunlight

The more sun your roof gets, the better. Ideally, your home should get a good amount of direct sunlight for most of the day. South-facing roofs tend to be best, but east- and west-facing roofs can work too. (Power Outage USA)

2. Roof Condition

If your roof is old or needs repairs, it’s a good idea to take care of that before installing solar panels. A sturdy, relatively new roof helps ensure your panels can last a long time, typically 25 years or more. (Power Outage USA)

3. Shading

Tall trees, nearby buildings, or chimneys that block sunlight can affect how well your system performs. A quick assessment by a solar professional can tell you how much of an impact shading will have.

4. Homeownership

If you own your home, you’re in a great position to go solar. Renters can still benefit from solar through programs like community solar, but rooftop panels typically require you to own the property. (EnergySage)

How Much Does Solar Cost? How Can You Afford It?

This is often the biggest question homeowners have. So let’s break it down.

In Massachusetts, a typical solar system can cost between $15,000–$30,000, depending on your energy use and the size of your system. That’s a big number, but here’s the good news: You don’t have to pay it all upfront.

There are several ways to make solar more affordable:

Massachusetts State Incentives**

Massachusetts also offers:

• A 15% state tax credit, up to $1,000 (SolarReviews)
• No sales tax on solar equipment
• Property tax exemptions
  • Your home value increase from solar doesn’t raise your property taxes (Massachusetts State Solar)

SMART Program

The Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) program offers monthly incentive payments, delivered by check or direct deposit, based on the electricity your solar system generates. These payments, which are available for most residential systems under 25 kW and lasting 10 years, are in addition to any net‑metering credits you receive on your electric bill. (Eversource) (mass.gov)

Solar Leasing or Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)

Don’t want to buy your system? No problem. With a solar lease or PPA, you can go solar with little to no upfront cost. You pay a monthly amount for the power your system produces, which is often lower than your current electric bill.*

Check out our Solar Leasing vs. Buying in Massachusetts, How Leasing Solar from PosiGen Works, and Solar Financing Options: Making Solar Affordable blogs to learn more.

Will Solar Really Save You Money?

In many cases, yes—especially in Massachusetts. Thanks to high electricity rates and generous incentives, most homeowners who go solar in the state see real savings.

For homeowners who purchase their solar system, the average payback period, the time it takes to recoup the upfront investment through energy savings, is typically around 5 to 7 years. After that, any additional savings* on electricity bills can offer long-term financial benefits. (Power Outage USA)

Some Massachusetts homeowners save over $40,000–$100,000 over the life of their system. Of course, your actual savings will depend on your home, energy use, and financing option. (EnergySage)

How to Get Started

If you're ready to take the next step, here's what to do:

1. Schedule a free home assessment
   A solar company (like PosiGen!) can evaluate your roof, check your sunlight exposure, and go over your energy use to design a system that fits your needs.
2. Compare options
   Ask about buying vs leasing, available incentives, and estimated savings. A good solar provider will walk you through everything and answer your questions.
3. Get help with paperwork
   Applying for tax credits, permits, and incentive programs can be overwhelming, but the right partner will handle most of it for you.

Final Thoughts

Massachusetts is one of the best states in the country for solar energy. Between rising electricity rates, strong sunshine, and incredible incentives, going solar just makes sense for many homeowners.

Ready to find out if solar is the right fit for your home? PosiGen makes the process easy, affordable, and stress-free. Whether you’re just starting your solar journey or looking for answers about incentives and installation, we’re here to help. Schedule your free solar consultation today and take the first step toward greater energy independence.

* Individual savings will vary based on your utility rate, energy consumption habits, solar system equipment installed on your property, tax incentives eligibility, weather, and other factors. Individual savings estimates are based on your solar energy production, your solar kWh rate, potential tax incentives, your utility kWh rate at the time of purchase and projected increase in the utility rate (based on historical data and national averages). Estimates do not take into consideration other changes in utility rates. Such changes could affect your overall estimated savings.

† Your utility or electric cooperative may not be required to offer net metering. Net-metering programs vary by state. Your utility bills may have fixed fees that cannot be zeroed out. Excess electricity may be compensated at lower than retail rates or solar households may be moved to a different rate class. Rates may differ based on the time of day. Net-metering programs are subject to change over the life of the system.

** Statements made by PosiGen are based on the data available as of the last update to this website. There is no express or implied dollar savings guarantee. Statements regarding tax rebates and/or incentives are not guarantees. You should seek advice from a tax professional regarding any rebate terms and/or qualifications