Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Essex, Massachusetts. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Boston Solar is a leading residential solar installer in Massachusetts with a strong focus on the North Shore, including Essex. They are known for their comprehensive service, from initial consultation and system design to installation, maintenance, and helping homeowners navigate state incentives like the SMART program and federal tax credits.
As a SunPower Master Dealer, this company offers some of the most efficient solar panels on the market. They provide a full suite of services and are particularly strong in designing high-performance systems and integrating battery storage. Their affiliation with SunPower provides strong manufacturer warranties and a reputation for quality.
While headquartered in Maine, ReVision Energy has a significant and growing presence in Massachusetts, with a dedicated branch in North Andover serving Essex County. They are a certified B Corp, emphasizing sustainability and customer education. They are experts in both grid-tied and off-grid solutions with a strong focus on heat pumps and energy storage.
** The home solar market in Essex, Massachusetts, is robust and highly competitive, characterized by high-quality service providers due to the state's favorable incentives and above-average electricity rates. The market quality is generally high, with installers needing to be well-versed in complex state-level programs like the Massachusetts SMART program and ConnectedSolutions for batteries. Competition is strong among regional leaders, which drives a focus on customer service and technological expertise (such as battery storage integration, crucial for backup power during nor'easters). Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with the national average, but the excellent state and federal incentives significantly reduce the net cost for homeowners. Essex residents are typically served by established companies from surrounding hubs like the North Shore, Merrimack Valley, and Greater Boston, rather than by installers physically located within the small town itself.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Essex regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Essex, Massachusetts.
For a typical Essex home, a solar panel system costs between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, Massachusetts homeowners benefit from the federal solar tax credit (26% of system cost) and the state's SMART program, which provides a monthly payment for the solar energy you produce. Additionally, Essex residents are eligible for a 15% state tax credit (up to $1,000) and a property tax exemption, ensuring your assessment won't increase due to the solar installation.
Solar panels are very effective in Essex's climate, as they generate electricity from daylight, not just direct sun, and actually operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures. Snow typically melts quickly off panels due to their dark, slick surface and tilt, and any minor seasonal production dips are offset by Massachusetts' strong net metering policy, which credits you for excess summer power to use in winter.
Yes, you will need a building permit from the Essex Building Department. If your home is in the Essex Historic District or is a designated historic property, you may face additional review from the Essex Historical Commission, which can affect panel placement for aesthetic preservation. A reputable local installer will handle this permitting process and navigate any local bylaws on your behalf.
Prioritize providers with extensive experience installing systems under Massachusetts' specific incentive programs (like SMART) and local knowledge of Essex's permitting. Look for established, licensed, and insured Massachusetts contractors, check reviews on local platforms, and ensure they offer strong warranties. It's wise to get multiple quotes from companies familiar with the North Shore's architectural styles and weather patterns.
This is a critical consideration. Solar panels have a 25+ year lifespan, so if your roof is over 15 years old or shows signs of wear, it is highly recommended to replace it before installation. Doing so avoids the significant cost of removing and reinstalling the solar system for a future roof repair. A qualified Essex solar installer will conduct a thorough roof assessment as part of their initial proposal.