Solar energy is a shining new development in the City of Firsts

The state of solar in Springfield

With 189 sunny days per year,^*BestPlaces, Climate in Springfield, MA Springfield may not be the sunniest place in the U.S., but 72% of the city's rooftops are still solar viable.^*Project Sunroof data explorer (November 2018). The city ranks within the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE)'s greenest cities, in part due to its recent push towards community solar and energy efficiency programs.

How much solar energy does Springfield produce?

Springfield, MA, produces nearly 12 MW of solar energy from its three major solar plants, in addition to the energy that hundreds of homeowners create through private solar panels. The city plans to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 80% before 2050,^*MassLIVE. Massachusetts lawmakers send climate bill that would reduce state’s carbon footprint to Gov. Charlie Baker’s desk. January 2021. and its focus on solar energy production has kept it on track to meet this goal.

What are the advantages of going solar in Springfield?

With solar energy costs in Massachusetts decreasing by over 45% in the past five years^*Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). Massachusetts Solar, Q4 2020, there's never been a more affordable time to switch to solar in Springfield. The average Springfield homeowner saves around $32,881 in energy costs over the first 25-year period after solar panel installation.^*EnergySage, Solar Panels in Springfield, MA, March 2021.

Additionally, Springfield residents have the opportunity to participate in the non-profit energy assistance program to reduce their solar energy costs further. The Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) initiative provides varying incentive levels depending on your utility provider and system size, often ranging between 29 and 31 cents per kWh. The program relies on a block system, with the incentive dropping as each "block" capacity goal is reached.

Going solar in Springfield can also help produce revenue for the city as a whole. Solar utility companies pay upwards of $1 million in local property taxes each year, making them the city's largest taxpayers. This revenue allows the city to invest more money into clean energy initiatives.

How much does solar cost in Springfield?

The cost of a home solar system can vary, even in the same city, due to a range of factors. These include the:

• Quality of the solar system

• Household's energy needs

• Local weather

• Available roof space

To help you understand the price of going solar in your area, we've analyzed SunPower price quotes, as well as quotes gathered by third-party sources,^*Local Solar Installers 2020/2021, Solar Reviews 2021, Energy Sage 2021, Wood Mackenzie 2020, National Renewable Energy Laboratory 2020 for thousands of homeowners across the country.

In Massachusetts, we found that the cost of owning a 5 kW solar system ranges from $15,350 to $25,650, or in other words, from $3.07 to $5.13 per watt. And that's before considering the benefits of any available tax credits or incentives.

Massachusetts offers some of the most generous financial incentives for switching to solar energy in the U.S. In addition to the SMART program, you can also take advantage of the state's personal tax credit, which allows you to claim 15% of the cost of your solar system on your state income taxes for a credit of up to $1,000.^*Local incentives and rebates vary and are subject to change. SunPower does not warrant, guarantee or otherwise advise its customers about their ability to qualify for local incentives. Your SunPower Dealer can help you determine incentives available in your area. You can also visit the dsireusa.org website for detailed solar policy information.

Massachusetts homeowners also have the opportunity to benefit from Springfield net metering^*The availability of net metering varies by location and is subject to change. Your SunPower Dealer can help you determine if you qualify. You can also visit the dsireusa.org website for detailed solar policy information. programs. Through these programs, homeowners can send their excess solar energy back to their utility company for a credit to offset power usage from the grid during periods of low sunlight.

What's the best way to go solar in Springfield?

Determining the best solar system for your property is one of the first steps in switching to solar energy. Solar panels come in an assortment of sizes, designs, and price ranges, and choosing the right setup for your needs can ensure that you reap the most benefits from your solar system.

Reputable solar providers assess your property and offer a comprehensive consultation to determine your ideal solar solution. During the consultation, and before signing a contract, you should receive a system design, monthly electric bill savings estimate, price quote, and an overview of available incentives and tax credits.^*Incentives, rebates, and tax credits vary and are subject to change. SunPower does not warrant, guarantee or otherwise advise its customers about specific tax outcomes or their ability to qualify for local incentives. Consult your tax advisor regarding the solar tax credit and how it applies to your specific circumstances. Your SunPower Dealer can help you determine incentives available in your area. You can also visit the dsireusa.org website for detailed solar policy information.

To get started making the switch to clean solar energy in Springfield today, schedule a free consultation with one of our solar experts.