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Best Solar Companies in Worcester, MA

We compared 43 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Sunrun
      4.2(3,033)
    • Customer service
      ION Solar
      4.4(114)
    • Competitive pricing
      Project Solar
      4.8(77)

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      Best Solar Companies in Worcester, MA

      Our top solar company picks for Worcester

      1. Our pick for best overall: Sunrun
      2. Our pick for customer service: ION Solar
      3. Our pick for competitive pricing: Project Solar

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies in Worcester on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranty terms and other factors. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear. Read the full methodology for all the details on how ConsumerAffairs makes solar company recommendations.

      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,571,386 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
      • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
      • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
      • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

      The best solar companies in Worcester

      Solar can be a big investment. Our goal is to highlight companies that are best equipped to meet most Worcesterites’ energy needs.

      Our top pick overall

      Sunrun

      4.2
      3,033 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      22%
      Panel warranty
      Varies
      Payment options
      Cash, loan, lease
      Year founded
      2007

      We’ve talked to more than 2,000 Sunrun customers. Over a recent two-year period, 77% were satisfied with their installations and 73% were satisfied with the technology. Many tell us about significant savings on electric bills and would highly recommend the company to others. We also like that Sunrun’s leasing program lets you go solar without a huge upfront investment.

      • “It made more sense to go solar and the whole process itself made everything easier. It took a little bit to get the battery but I asked when the battery would come and it was there the next day. Being able to produce my own energy is a lot more convenient and the bills and whatnot are a lot more manageable.” — Michael in Worcester
      • “It's been great with Sunrun. They came to check the roof structure from inside the house to make sure that everything was stable enough to put the solar panels on. Three weeks later, they called me to schedule the install. It took two months because we were in the middle of winter when they did the estimate. The product over the last four years has been holding up and we have some rough winters here in Massachusetts.” — Joseph in Fitchburg

      Make sure you read the fine print carefully. Some customers have said they are not satisfied with the contract and terms. For instance, Peter in Worcester told us that Sunrun took a long time to replace some broken equipment. He was understandably frustrated about continuing to pay monthly fees without receiving the promised electricity service.

      Sunrun specializes in residential solar systems with battery storage. Installers use monocrystalline panels from reputable manufacturers like LG.

      • Services: Sunrun designs and installs customized solar panel systems for homes and businesses. Technicians provide ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure optimal performance.
      • Warranty information: Sunrun provides a 10-year warranty on workmanship and equipment, roof leak protection and a 25-year performance guarantee.
      • Payment options: You can pay for your system upfront or take out a loan, but Sunrun leasing plans really set it apart. There’s no initial charge for any panels or other equipment, installation or permits. Sunrun owns the system, and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use it. Contracts typically last 25 years and include free repairs.

      Pros

      • Reliable systems
      • Flexible payment options
      • Comprehensive warranties
      • Daily system monitoring

      Cons

      • Occasional installation delays
      • Some customer service complaints
      • Occasional billing issues
      Our pick for customer service

      ION Solar

      4.4
      114 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      21.9%
      Panel warranty
      30 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan
      Year founded
      2013

      ION Solar offers multiple solar options suitable for different needs and budgets. From helpful sales reps to knowledgeable installers, the company really stands out for its strong customer service. We suggest getting a personalized quote to see if ION Solar is a good fit for you.

      • “Things went well and smooth with ION Solar. They were able to finish the installation on time and things went as planned. And the good part was whatever have been promised during the initial talks, they made sure that they had done those things. So, I'm quite happy with that. But at the moment, I'm still facing some issues with regard to the reporting. Once in a while, I'm able to see some spikes while the system is reporting the power. When I talked to their partner, she was feeling like that is happening while there is an update on the system. But that is inconvenient because it affects the total calculation of how much power has been made. Also, nowadays, the power generation is less, but I'm assuming that is because of the cloudy days.” — Nikhil in Worcester
      Reviewers in other states sometimes mention communication issues or installation delays. These types of complaints are common in the industry. Solar installations are complicated projects — there’s always a chance that projected timelines change due to weather, supply chain issues and other factors. We also think ION Solar could be more transparent about its financing options and additional services.

      ION Solar’s NABCEP-certified installers use Silfab solar panels and Enphase microinverters. Most projects are completed in 60 to 90 days.

      • Services: Reps coordinate solar system designs and installations as well as roofing services if needed. Energy production monitoring and ongoing system maintenance are available after installation.
      • Warranty information: All work performed during the installation is covered for 10 years. Panels are guaranteed to produce at least 85% capacity for 30 years. Enphase microinverters come with a 25-year warranty.
      • Payment options: You can purchase or finance the system through a solar loan. Rates and terms vary.

      Pros

      • No upfront payment required
      • 24/7 monitoring
      • Good customer service
      • Solid warranty

      Cons

      • Some communication issues
      • Occasional installation delays
      Our pick for competitive pricing

      Project Solar

      4.8
      77 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      20.9%
      Panel warranty
      25 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan
      Year founded
      2016

      We’ve talked to more than 50 Project Solar customers from across the country. Over a recent two-year period, 94% were satisfied with the price. Satisfaction ratings on customer service and technology were also above industry averages.

      Project Solar reps focus on simple, streamlined installations. The no-sales-gimmicks approach appeals to more budget-conscious clients who want either professional services or do-it-yourself options. We also appreciate the price transparency. Full-service installations start at $1.61 per watt. DIY projects are cheaper, starting at $1.26 per watt.

      • “I recently installed solar panels with Project Solar and everything they promised was delivered on time and as agreed upon. I receive an electric bill each month that shows zero and I even have credit for the winter, which is fantastic. During the installation, I had a new roof put on at the same time as part of the whole project, and everything was seamless. … A project manager was available to answer any questions I had throughout the process. I was extremely pleased with their professionalism and efficiency. If friends or family ask about my experience, I would definitely recommend looking into Project Solar.” — Susan in Worcester

      The installation process is generally smooth and professional, but we have heard about some delays due to material shortages or supply chain issues.

      Project Solar specializes in professional and DIY solar panel installations. Systems incorporate equipment from reputable brands like Qcells, Canadian Solar, Jinko and Enphase.

      • Services: Reps can handle the necessary paperwork, engineering plans and permit submissions for the installation. You can get a free online quote and explore sizing options for their homes.
      • Warranty information: There is a 25-year manufacturer’s and 10-year workmanship warranty. Both are limited and have exclusions like weather damage or misuse.
      • Payment options: Project Solar partners with a few lenders to offer financing solutions for professional solar installations. DIY customers can pay cash or finance through a third-party lender.

      Pros

      • Easy sign-up process
      • High-quality equipment
      • Great value

      Cons

      • Occasional miscommunications
      • Subcontracted installers
      • No in-house financing

      How we chose the best solar companies in Worcester

      We took a data-driven approach, informed by expert editors and considering the humid continental climate, to choose the best solar companies in Worcester, Massachusetts, based on the following key features and respective weightings:

      • Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%
      • Warranty terms: 20%
      • Equipment selection: 20%
      • Financing and payment options: 20%

      » MORE: Full methodology

      Worcester solar panel buyers guide

      We’ve talked to hundreds of Bay Staters who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Worcester residents should look out for when choosing a solar panel installation company. We’ll also touch on overall costs and ways to save with government incentives.

      Key insights

      A typical residential solar panel installation costs $24,189 in Worcester.

      Jump to insight

      Solar loans, leases and other programs make it easy to go solar with minimal upfront costs.

      Jump to insight

      Solar scammers may falsely claim to be affiliated with a Worcester County or Massachusetts government agency.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Worcester

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $11,480 to $32,800 in Massachusetts. Prices in Worcester are comparable, ranging from $11,410 to $32,600.

      This doesn’t include an energy storage battery, which sometimes costs as much as the panels: $7,000 to $18,000. A battery lets you store excess energy generated during the day and use it when your panels aren’t producing, like at night or during outages. It’s worth considering if your area gets frequent blackouts.

      System size is the other major solar cost factor. The average Worcester household needs a system with a capacity of 7.42 kW (kilowatt) to fully offset their electricity costs. Depending on how much energy you and your family use, you might need a smaller or larger one.

      Average total solar installation costs by system size in Worcester

      How can I pay for solar panels?

      Getting solar panels is like buying a car. Most people pay cash, finance or lease. Similar to leasing, a power purchase agreement (PPA) lets you get the benefits of solar without actually owning the equipment.

      • Solar loans work like any other type of loan. They have relatively low fixed interest rates. Once you pay it off, you own your system outright.
      • Solar leases are a good option if you have limited savings and don’t want to take on debt. A potential downside to leasing is that you won’t be eligible for the federal solar tax credit.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Buy vs. lease

      Is solar worth it in Worcester?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in Massachusetts if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. On average, Worcester homeowners with solar panels can avoid $56,439 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      The main drawback is the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 5 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

      As long as your house is a good candidate for solar, it’s at least worth considering. We suggest using NREL’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house. Project Sunroof is a reliable online solar savings estimator.

      Potential roof problems

      As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This is an expensive and frustrating process.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      How to find a reputable solar company in Worcester

      In our experience, the best solar companies in Massachusetts have a few things in common: lots of experience, reliable equipment and transparent contracts. Here are some hiring tips.

      • Check certifications: All solar installations must be done by a licensed electrical contractor. You can verify your installer's license through the Massachusetts Division of Occupational Licensure database. We also recommend choosing an installer certified through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
      • Read reviews: Avoid companies with recurring complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication.
      • Get quotes: Get multiple quotes from different solar companies to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others — this may indicate lower quality.
      • Ask questions: Do you need a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guards? How does this affect overall pricing? What if your system needs maintenance? If you don’t understand something about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services, ask for clarification.

      Going solar in Worcester County

      Worcester experiences long, snowy winters and shorter summers, so systems should be optimized for winter energy demands and snow loads.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: Massachusetts ranked 14th in 2024

      Solar incentives in Worcester

      The 30% federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is still the best incentive for most homeowners. It reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of how much it costs to install solar panels. You can combine the ITC with local solar incentives in Massachusetts to maximize savings.

      Massachusetts has some great solar incentives, like the SMART (Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target) program, which pays homeowners per kilowatt-hour of solar production. The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center offers additional incentives, including grants and rebates for lower-income households.

      Worcester solar FAQ

      How does the federal solar tax credit work?

      The ITC is a credit, meaning it directly decreases the amount of taxes you owe. This is different from a deduction, which lowers your taxable income.

      For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $5,000 in taxes, the $3,000 credit reduces what you owe to $2,000. Any unused portion rolls over to the next tax year. However, it’s possible to get a refund check if the ITC credit reduces your taxes to the point where you overpaid during the year.

      Do I need any permits to install solar panels in Worcester?

      Local permits are generally required for most residential solar panel installations. You or your installer can apply online through the City of Worcester’s permitting center.

      How does net metering work in Worcester?

      Net metering lets you draw power from the grid when your solar panels aren’t producing enough. In return, you can send excess energy back to the grid for credit. These credits can then be used to offset your electricity bill when your solar panels are not producing enough energy.

      Massachusetts generally has favorable net metering policies, allowing you to earn credits at the retail rate (what you pay for electricity) for excess solar energy sent to the grid. There can be caps on the total amount of solar that can be net metered in a utility's service area, however. Once the cap is reached, new solar customers might get lower compensation rates.

      » GREENEST STATES: Massachusetts ranked 7th in 2024

      What are the different types of solar panels?

      Monocrystalline and polycrystalline are the most common types of solar panels used in residential installations. In general, monocrystalline panels are considered the best bang for your buck. Cheaper solar panels are typically polycrystalline. The key difference is in materials and efficiency: Monocrystalline panels use pure, single silicon crystals, while polycrystalline panels are made from melted silicon fragments, resulting in different efficiency levels.

      Solar panel efficiency is a measure of how well a panel makes electricity. Standard efficiency rates range from 19% to 23%, which means 19% to 23% of the sunlight that hits the panels gets converted into electricity. The more efficient the solar panels you buy are, the fewer panels you need. While more efficient panels cost a little more, you save by buying fewer panels.

      Can I get solar panels for free in Worcester?

      We’re not aware of a totally free solar option in Worcester. You can lease or enter a power purchase agreement with minimal upfront costs, but there is usually an ongoing monthly fee. In general, beware of deals that sound too good to be true.

      How does a power purchase agreement work?

      A third party installs and maintains solar panels on your property. You buy the power generated by the panels on a per kilowatt-hour (kWh) basis. It’s typically a fixed price, with a cheaper cents/kWh rate than traditional utilities have for the same amount of electricity.

      Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Worcester

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in Worcester, Massachusetts. For this guide, we objectively weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%
      We analyzed solar company reviews by verified solar customers to gauge real-world satisfaction. Companies with generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect. Those with the most 4- and 5-star reviews by verified Worcester customers were given preference.

      Warranties: 20%
      A long warranty is important — it shows that a company stands behind its products and services. We compared companies on both equipment and craftsmanship warranty terms. All of our top picks for professional installation have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      Equipment selection: 20%
      We evaluated each company’s selection of solar panels, storage batteries and inverters. Those with proprietary technology or a wide equipment selection from trusted brands ranked highest.

      Financing and payment options: 20%
      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      ConsumerAffairs Research Team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      1. Sunrun
      2. ION Solar
      3. Project Solar

      Not sure how to choose?

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        Guide Sources

        ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

        1. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Worcester, MA." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        2. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Worcester, 2024." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Massachusetts Solar." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        4. DSIRE, "Massachusetts Programs." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        5. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Massachusetts." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        6. Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice, "Solar Power for Your Home." Accessed Sept. 19, 2024.

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