Solar FAQs

PV stands for “Photovoltaics”. Solar PV converts sunlight into electrical energy.

Solar hot water systems use the sun to heat air or water for a building’s space and water needs.

The two biggest factors are the amount of sunlight you get throughout the day and the amount of open roof space. A quick assessment will be done by looking at satellite photos of your property. Homes that are best for solar will have the following characteristics: -Significant uninterrupted roof space that faces the southern sky -Newer, structurally-sound roof, or willing to replace an older roof before installing a PV system -Limited shading during the middle of the day -South-facing roof

Residential PV systems typically cost between $15,000 and $40,000 depending on system size, installation complexity and solar market conditions. Rebates are available to homeowners from the MassCEC under the Commonwealth Solar II program and from the City as part of this initiative. The federal government also offers an income tax credit worth 30% of the system’s cost. These incentives can reduce the first year, out-of-pocket cost by up to 50%. The state also requires regulated electric utilities to purchase Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) generated from PV systems sited in Massachusetts. PV systems installed under the Renew Boston Solar Rebates program will likely be eligible to generate and sell their SRECs to utilities at a price between $285 and $550 per megawatt hour. Interested residents should discuss SRECs with their solar installer to find out more.

Several approved program installers offer lease or power purchase agreement options for residential solar PV systems. Under the terms of these installation contracts, homeowners typically pay for the power generated by the PV system, while a third-party will own the system and monetize federal, state and local incentives. These financing arrangements often result in homeowners signing long-term power contracts below current retail electricity prices. This may be an attractive financing option for homeowners who are interested in installing solar on their homes but are not interested in paying the upfront costs of a solar PV system. Under these third-party system ownership arrangements, homeowners will not typically see all the financial benefits of directly owning a solar PV system. Consult with your solar installer to explore the system ownership option that is right for you.

Once you have a consultation and decide to install a system, the installer, will conduct a site audit, design your system, and request a building permit. Once the building permit is received, the installer will install the solar panels. The system then must be inspected by the City of Boston, and subsequently by your utility company. Each step in the process takes several weeks, and the entire process typically takes about four to six months. The length of time depends on the complexity of your roof and the number of panels that will be installed. The estimated installation time will be included in the design proposal presented to you by your installer.

Residential solar hot water systems typically cost between $8,000 and $10,000 depending on system size, installation complexity and solar market conditions. Rebates are available to homeowners from the MassCEC under the Commonwealth Solar II program and from the City as part of this initiative. The federal government also offers an income tax credit worth 30% of the system’s cost. These incentives can reduce the first year, out-of-pocket cost by up to 50%.

The Commonwealth Solar II program offers rebates for homeowners and business. Stay updated with www.masscec.com