Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Somerville, Massachusetts. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Boston Solar is a locally owned and operated leader in the Massachusetts solar industry, specializing exclusively in residential and commercial solar installations. They are known for their deep expertise in state-specific incentives like the SMART program and have installed a significant portion of the solar capacity in the Greater Boston area. Their strength lies in a turnkey process from consultation and design to installation and maintenance.
Serving Massachusetts since 2006, New England Clean Energy has built a reputation for high-quality, custom solar installations and exceptional customer service. They are a certified B Corporation, reflecting a commitment to social and environmental performance. They are particularly adept at handling complex roof types and designing high-efficiency systems, and they offer robust maintenance and monitoring services.
A well-established and trusted name in the Somerville community for decades, Natale Builders has a dedicated solar division that leverages its deep knowledge of local building codes and roofing integrity. This is a significant advantage, as they can seamlessly integrate solar installations with any necessary roof work or structural assessments, ensuring a holistic and durable solution.
** The home solar market in Somerville, Massachusetts, is highly developed and competitive, characterized by a high density of qualified installers vying for business in an environmentally conscious community. The average quality of service is very high, as companies must maintain excellent reputations and deep knowledge of complex state and local incentives to succeed. Key market drivers include high electricity rates, strong state-level incentives like the Massachusetts SMART program, and a net metering policy that credits homeowners for excess power. The competition is fierce, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and enhanced service offerings. Typical pricing for a residential system ranges from **$15,000 to $30,000+** before the 30% federal tax credit, heavily dependent on system size, panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage. Companies that demonstrate local expertise, strong warranties, and fluency with the intricate permitting process of Somerville and its utility provider (Eversource) tend to be the most successful.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Somerville regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Somerville, Massachusetts.
Somerville homeowners 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 a state tax credit of up to $1,000 and the SMART program, which provides a monthly payment for the solar electricity you produce. Additionally, Somerville is part of the Solarize Mass program, which periodically runs group-buying campaigns to secure discounted pricing for residents.
Solar panels work efficiently in cold, sunny weather, and Massachusetts receives sufficient sunlight for a strong return on investment. Snow will temporarily reduce output but typically slides off angled panels, and winter production is still valuable. The primary local consideration is urban shading from nearby buildings and trees, making a professional shade analysis critical. A qualified installer will design your system to maximize production on your specific roof.
The entire process typically takes 3 to 6 months. After design and signing, your installer will handle permits from the City of Somerville's Inspectional Services Department and interconnection paperwork with Eversource (the local utility). The physical installation often takes just 1-3 days, but the utility's final approval and meter swap (for net metering) can add several weeks. Seasonal factors like winter weather or high industry demand can sometimes extend timelines.
Focus on local, established companies with extensive experience navigating Somerville's permitting and Eversource's interconnection process. Check for Massachusetts-licensed electricians and contractors (CSL), certifications like NABCEP, and robust warranties. Crucially, review their portfolio of completed projects in dense, urban neighborhoods similar to yours in Somerville or Cambridge, and read verified customer reviews on independent sites.
If your roof is too shaded, improperly oriented, or structurally unsuited, you have two excellent local alternatives. First, explore joining a Somerville Community Solar garden, which allows you to subscribe to a share of a remote solar array and receive credits on your Eversource bill. Second, investigate the feasibility of a solar canopy over a driveway or flat section of your property, which is becoming more common in urban lots.