Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Chatham, Massachusetts. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A well-established, locally-owned and operated solar installer based on Cape Cod. They are highly regarded for their personalized service, deep knowledge of local permitting and weather conditions (including coastal installation considerations), and comprehensive in-house services from design to maintenance.
As one of New England's leading solar installers, Boston Solar has a significant presence across Massachusetts, including the Cape. They bring the scale and experience of a larger company, with robust financing options and strong manufacturer partnerships, while maintaining a focus on local service through dedicated crews.
A highly-rated, customer-focused installer known for quality craftsmanship and system design. They specialize in both residential and commercial projects and have a strong reputation for navigating the complexities of solar installation, including historical districts which can be a consideration in parts of Cape Cod.
** The home solar market in Chatham, Massachusetts, is characterized by high-quality, competitive regional installers rather than a high volume of local, in-town companies. The market is mature, with providers well-versed in the specific challenges of the area, such as coastal building codes, wind load requirements, and the aesthetic considerations important in a historic and scenic community. The competition level is moderate but high-quality, with established companies competing on service, reputation, and expertise rather than just price. Typical pricing for a residential system in Chatham is generally at a premium compared to national averages, reflecting higher labor costs, the expertise required for coastal installations, and the generally higher cost of living. However, this is offset by strong state incentives like the SMART program and federal tax credits, making the return on investment very attractive for homeowners. Most providers offer a range of financing, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), to accommodate different homeowner needs.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Chatham regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Chatham, Massachusetts.
A typical residential solar installation in Chatham ranges from $15,000 to $30,000 before incentives, depending on system size and home energy needs. Massachusetts offers excellent incentives, including the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), a state tax credit of up to $1,000, and the SMART program, which provides monthly payments for the solar energy you produce. Additionally, Chatham homeowners benefit from a property tax exemption for the added home value from solar, and net metering with Eversource ensures you get credit for excess power sent to the grid.
Solar panels operate efficiently in cold, sunny weather, and Chatham's coastal location provides ample sun despite shorter winter days. Snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to help with shedding, and their dark surfaces accelerate melting. The primary seasonal consideration is lower production from November to February, but the SMART program's higher compensation rates for winter generation and net metering credits built up in sunnier months help balance your annual energy costs effectively.
Yes, Chatham has specific local bylaws and a rigorous permitting process, especially within its historic districts. The town's Historical Commission reviews applications for properties in designated areas to ensure installations are minimally visible from the street, which may affect panel placement. It's crucial to work with a solar provider experienced with Chatham's Building Department and Conservation Commission requirements to navigate permits efficiently and ensure your system design complies with all local aesthetic guidelines.
Prioritize installers with extensive local experience on Cape Cod, as they will understand Chatham's specific permitting, wind-load requirements, and optimal designs for coastal weather. Look for Massachusetts-licensed electricians, strong warranties (25-year on panels is standard), and check their standing with the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center. A reputable local provider will handle everything from site assessment to interconnection with Eversource and will provide references from nearby projects.
Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during a power outage for safety reasons, even if the sun is shining. To have backup power, you must install a solar battery storage system, like a Tesla Powerwall or similar. This is a particularly valuable consideration in Chatham, where coastal storms can lead to outages. Adding battery storage increases the system cost but provides critical resilience, keeping essential circuits running and is eligible for additional state incentives under the Massachusetts Clean Peak Energy Standard.