Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Braintree, Massachusetts. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Boston Solar is a leading Massachusetts-based solar installer with a massive presence across the state, including the South Shore. They are a certified partner of SunPower, offering high-efficiency panels and robust warranties. Their strength lies in their deep local expertise, handling everything from initial consultation and system design to installation, financing, and navigating Massachusetts-specific incentives like the SMART program.
Formerly known as Boston Solar Technologies, Solaris Renewables has been a trusted name in New England solar for over a decade. They are a SunPower Master Dealer, which is a top-tier certification. They emphasize custom system design and offer comprehensive services, including energy efficiency assessments to maximize homeowner savings. They are known for their high-quality installations and customer service.
A highly-rated, locally-owned and operated solar installer based on the South Shore. Great Sky Solar specializes in residential projects and prides itself on personalized service and attention to detail. They offer both grid-tied and off-grid solutions and are experts in battery backup systems, particularly from Tesla and Generac. Their smaller size often translates to a more hands-on approach for each client.
** The home solar market in Braintree, Massachusetts, is robust and highly competitive, characterized by well-informed consumers and reputable installers. The average quality of providers is high, driven by strong state-level incentives and a population interested in renewable energy and energy independence. **Competition Level:** High. Braintree residents are served by a mix of large, established statewide players and smaller, specialized local companies. This competition benefits homeowners through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. **Typical Pricing & Incentives:** The cost of a residential solar system in Braintree typically ranges from **$15,000 to $35,000+** before incentives, heavily dependent on system size and equipment. However, the effective cost is significantly lower due to a powerful combination of incentives: * **Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC):** 30% of the system cost credited against federal taxes. * **Massachusetts SMART Program:** Provides a monthly monetary credit for solar energy production, paid directly to the homeowner over 10+ years. * **State Tax Credit:** Up to $1,000. * **Property Tax Exemption:** Solar installations are exempt from property tax assessments. * **Net Metering:** Allows homeowners to receive credit for excess energy sent back to the grid. This favorable incentive landscape, combined with high local electricity rates, makes solar an economically attractive investment for most Braintree homeowners, with average payback periods ranging from 5-8 years.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Braintree regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Braintree, Massachusetts.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Braintree, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you are eligible for the 30% federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which significantly reduces the net cost. Massachusetts also offers additional state incentives, including the SMART program, which pays you a monthly tariff for the solar energy you produce, and a state tax credit, plus a sales tax exemption on equipment.
Braintree experiences all four seasons, with sunny summers and cloudy, snowy winters. Solar panels are highly efficient in cold, clear weather and still produce energy on cloudy days, though at a reduced rate. Snow will temporarily halt production, but panels are installed at an angle to encourage snow shedding, and their dark color helps melt it quickly. System sizing accounts for these seasonal variations to ensure annual production goals are met.
Installing solar in Braintree requires a building permit and an electrical permit from the Braintree Inspectional Services Department. If your home is in a historic district, additional review may be necessary. Your chosen installer will typically manage this entire process. Additionally, your system must be approved for interconnection by National Grid, our local utility, which your installer also coordinates.
Look for Massachusetts-licensed solar contractors (CSL) with strong local experience in Braintree's specific permitting and utility processes. Check reviews on trusted sites and ask for references from recent installations in town. Ensure they are certified by major manufacturers (like SunPower or Tesla) and clearly explain the details of warranties, production estimates, and their handling of local incentives like the SMART program.
A reputable installer will first assess your roof's condition, orientation, and shading (from trees or other structures). South-facing roofs with minimal shade are ideal, but east/west setups are also effective. If your roof is older, it's often wise to replace it before installation. Massachusetts law also includes provisions for "solar access rights," and your installer will design a system that allows for safe removal and reinstallation if major roof repairs are ever needed.