Answers to questions business owners have about solar in MA

Many business owners are surprised to find how many companies of all sizes, as well as government buildings, have already made the decision to use solar power. SunPower solar panels have been installed at a number of well-known retailers, school districts, and other government buildings, such as Macy's, and the University of California. If you own a commercial building, you are a candidate for a solar system.

Each company’s business case for solar will depend upon the factors that are most important to the organization. The extent to which the case will need to be accepted, and by whom, depends on the decision making framework. Typically, businesses are looking for the largest return on investment (ROI) and time to savings as well as their desire to become a green business. The fact that solar reduces operating costs, putting businesses in a position to reinvest that savings, is a driving factor.

Because each solar panel system is custom designed for a home or business, there is no “one cost” of solar panels. Each installation begins with a customized quote based on several factors, including how much you spend on electricity, how large your roof is, and if you’re a residential or commercial customer. For residential installations (and commercial, if chosen), Boston Solar uses SunPower solar panels, the most experienced solar panel company in the world. They come with a standard 25-year product, shipping and labor warranty, unmatched in the industry today. Learn more about the products we offer.

Every solar panel system is custom designed. Between financing and incentives, customers are usually cash-flow positive in their first year. Massachusetts has one of the strongest solar incentive programs in the country. In addition, federal tax credits and low-interest solar loans contribute to a positive cash flow.

Boston Solar customers can save up to 100% of their utility bill, depending on monthly energy usage and amount spent.

Electricity prices typically fluctuate seasonally and have increased on average by 4% nationally over the last 10 years. By owning a solar system, you produce your own power and are less exposed to the volitility and future electricity cost increases.

For commercial customers, Boston Solar offers various financing options including Solar Loans, Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) or Operating Leases.  Learn more about all of our commercial financing options.

In late 2017, the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (MA DOER) developed Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) to double its solar capacity to over three gigawatts (GW).  SMART has replaced the previous solar incentive program in Massachusetts, Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs).  SMART provides a monthly payment to business owners for the energy you produce. You also qualify for a 26% federal tax credit. If a customer chooses a solar lease or Power Purchase Agreement (commercial customers only) instead of purchasing or financing, they are not eligible for any federal or Massachusetts solar incentives. Check out our SMART incentives page to learn more. 

For commercial customers, this depends on a number of factors including system size and electric utility requirements. Timelines can vary significantly. Please contact us to discuss your specific situation with a Solar Consultant.

Our solar systems are warrantied to last 25 years and are virtually maintenance free, with the exception of the inverters, which typically last 12-15 years. Check out our commercial solar panels and products page to learn more about the products for commercial solar systems.

Boston Solar offers the strongest warranty package in Massachusetts at no additional cost to the customer. We extend the warranties for panels and inverter(s) to 25-years and also include a 10-year workmanship guarantee.

You will always receive something from your energy company.  Even if solar covers 100% of your electricity needs, the electric utility still charges a minimum "customer charge" because they are still providing you with a meter and energy, should you need it. Solar energy needs to be consumed in real time, unless you are using a storage solution (i.e. battery, which we do offer). When the sun is not shining or powering your home or business, you will use electricity from the grid or the energy stored from your battery. The amount of energy that your system generates will offset or, in some cases, eliminate the electricity part of your utility bill.

If a commercial building with a solar system is sold, the new owners would take over the solar system and its benefits.