Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Charlestown, Massachusetts. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Boston Solar is a leading Massachusetts-based solar installer with a strong focus on the Greater Boston area. They are known for their comprehensive service, from initial consultation and system design to installation, maintenance, and helping homeowners navigate state and federal incentives. Their high volume of positive reviews underscores a reputation for quality and customer service.
Serving Massachusetts since 2006, New England Clean Energy has built an exceptional reputation for high-quality installations and outstanding customer care. They are a smaller, premium provider that often works on more complex projects and emphasizes energy efficiency alongside solar generation. They are a SunPower Master Dealer, offering some of the most efficient panels on the market.
Solar Wolf Energy is a well-regarded local installer known for its expertise in both residential and commercial solar. They are a full-service company that handles the entire process and are particularly skilled at integrating battery storage solutions for energy resilience, a valuable service for any urban area. They have strong partnerships with top-tier manufacturers like LG and Panasonic.
** The home solar market in Charlestown, and Greater Boston as a whole, is mature and highly competitive. The quality of providers is generally very high, driven by Massachusetts' strong solar incentives (like the SMART program and federal tax credit), high electricity rates, and an environmentally conscious population. Competition is fierce, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and strong customer service. Typical pricing for a residential system in Massachusetts ranges from **$3.00 to $3.80 per watt** before incentives, meaning an average 8 kW system could have a gross cost of $24,000 - $30,400. However, after the 30% federal tax credit and state-level incentives, the net cost is significantly reduced. The unique architectural challenges of Charlestown's historic and rowhouse properties can sometimes lead to higher design and installation costs, making it crucial to choose an experienced local provider familiar with these complexities.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Charlestown regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Charlestown, Massachusetts.
Homeowners in Charlestown benefit from a powerful combination of federal, state, and local incentives. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows you to deduct 30% of your system cost from your federal taxes. Massachusetts offers the SMART program, which pays you a monthly tariff for the solar electricity you produce, and a state tax credit of up to $1,000. Additionally, you receive an exemption from the state sales tax on equipment and a property tax exemption for the added home value from the solar installation.
Solar panels work efficiently in cold, sunny weather, and Massachusetts receives sufficient sunlight for excellent production, with summer months generating the most power. In Charlestown's dense, historic neighborhoods, potential shading from nearby buildings or mature trees is a primary consideration. A professional site assessment is crucial to evaluate your roof's sun exposure throughout the year and to design a system that maximizes production despite the urban landscape and seasonal changes.
The entire process typically takes 3 to 6 months. After design and signing, the installer handles permitting with the City of Boston's Inspectional Services Department (ISD) and interconnection paperwork with Eversource. The physical installation often takes just 1-3 days. The longest wait is usually for the municipal inspection and for Eversource to install the required net meter, which can take several weeks. Scheduling can be affected by seasonal demand and weather.
Prioritize Massachusetts-licensed, insured, and certified installers (like NABCEP) with extensive experience in Greater Boston. It's essential to choose a company familiar with the specific permitting and interconnection processes for the City of Boston and any potential review from the Charlestown Historic District Commission if your home is in a protected area. Obtain multiple detailed quotes, check reviews on platforms like EnergySage, and ask for local references to see completed projects in the neighborhood.
Yes, but a roof evaluation is the critical first step. Most installers recommend a roof with at least 10-15 years of remaining life. For historic or unusually shaped roofs, installers use advanced mounting techniques and panel layouts to accommodate dormers, skylights, and complex angles. If replacement is needed, some homeowners coordinate a new roof with their solar installation for optimal efficiency and cost savings, bundling financing through a single project loan.