Cost of Solar Panels Maine | Cost of Solar Panels Portland Maine

Pricing

A well-designed solar system can eliminate your electric bill to just the monthly service fee of around $27, making solar one of the few investments that truly pays for itself. In fact, most Maine homeowners find that their system pays for itself in as little as 7-12 years. 

Your up-front costs will depend on several factors, including the components of your solar system, electric needs, property characteristics, and more. Use the information on this page to get a better sense of what your costs might be, or visit our solar calculator for an instant rough estimate.

If Your Bill Is Annual Electric Usage*Solar Array SizeEstimated Solar Purchase Price**Net Cost After
30% Tax Credit
$1426,019 kWh/yr4.68 kW array$15,291$10,704
$2009,029 kWh/yr7.02 kW array$21,129$14,790
$27012,791 kWh/yr9.94 kW array$28,194$19,736
$38518,810 kWh/yr
14.62 kW array$39,765$27,835
(**) Pricing estimates assume an unshaded, south-facing roof with a 35-degree roof pitch.
Production levels and costs will vary depending on your free site assessment findings.


 (*)You can find how much energy you use on your electric bill. 

Grid-tied solar systems are the most popular and cost-effective option in Maine. With this system, the sun powers your home when it’s shining, but you’re still connected to the grid so you can have power via net metering credits at night or when it’s cloudy. Net metering ensures the electricity generated by your solar system offsets your usage—and, ultimately, your electric bill. 


We also install grid-tied systems with battery backup and fully off-grid systems. Off-grid systems tend to cost more than similar grid-tied systems due to the additional labor, equipment, and service required.

Most of our customers choose rooftop solar arrays, which are the most cost-effective option. However, you might choose a ground-mounted array if you have a heavily shaded roof or aesthetic preferences. A ground-mounted solar array typically costs 15-25% more than a rooftop array due to the additional labor and equipment required.

Your solar system might cost more or less depending on your roof’s pitch, your home’s orientation, and the amount of shade on your property. A sunny, south-facing roof is best but not necessary—many customers find solar to be affordable even if their roof is partially shaded or faces another direction. During our free site assessment, we’ll carefully evaluate your property to see if your home is a good candidate for solar. 

Solar panels account for the greatest equipment cost when going solar. We offer many types which differ in size, wattage, efficiency, appearance, and warranty. We always present our customers with a range of options and take the time to explain the differences in panel features, performance, cost, and value, so you can make an informed choice. 

Depending on your budget and needs, you might choose to add battery back-up or an electric vehicle (EV) charger to your system. Even if you’re not ready to add them at the time of installation, we can discuss designing your system to accommodate these add-ons later. 

Most customers choose between paying upfront for their solar electric system or financing the purchase and paying a monthly payment. 

Choosing to pay for a solar electric system out-of-pocket will give you the highest return on your investment. You’ll own your solar panels immediately and not have to pay any interest. Many of our customers have taken advantage of low-interest rates and increasing home values to pay for their solar systems with home equity loans or when refinancing their mortgages.

Financing the purchase of a solar electric system allows you to fix your cost of electricity for the lifetime of your loan. Over the long lifetime of your system, you’ll be protected from rising rates. 


If you’re interested in securing a loan for your solar system, we’ll review options with you and connect you with a trustworthy, straightforward, and socially responsible lender. Learn more about your financing options here.

For someone in their 50’s, I looked at installing solar panels as saving for my 401K. Because when I am 70, who knows what the price of electricity will be. I am fixing the cost of most of my electricity for life!
– Cathy G., Gorham, ME

We understand making the switch to solar is a big decision. At Maine Solar Solutions, we’re committed to providing you with the information and guidance you need to make the best choice for you—no pressure, no gimmicks. 

If you’d like to explore solar options for your home, schedule your free site assessment today.