Solar Installers in New York
Compare top-rated solar companies in New York. Average cost: $2.96/W · 3.9 peak sun hours · 26.39¢/kWh electricity rate.
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New York is one of the best states in the nation for residential solar energy. With an average electricity rate of 26.39 cents per kilowatt-hour and 3.9 peak sun hours per day, homeowners across New York can generate significant energy savings by going solar. The average 8kW solar system in New York costs $23,680 before incentives and $16,576 after the 30% federal tax credit.
An 8kW system in New York produces approximately 11,388 kWh per year — enough to offset most or all of a typical household's electricity consumption. At current electricity rates, that translates to annual savings of approximately $3,005, with a payback period of around 6 years.
New York's net metering policy is classified as full retail rate, which means homeowners receive full retail rate credit for excess energy sent to the grid — maximizing the financial return on solar investment. The state has a Renewable Portfolio Standard requiring 70% renewable energy, which supports continued solar growth.
New York Solar Cost Breakdown
| System Size | Before Incentives | After 30% ITC |
|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $14,800 | $10,360 |
| 8 kW | $23,680 | $16,576 |
| 12 kW | $35,520 | $24,864 |
New York Solar Incentives
New York offers a generous 25% state tax credit (up to $5,000) that stacks with the 30% federal ITC. Combined, New York homeowners can offset up to 55% of their solar system cost through tax credits.
NYSERDA's NY-Sun program provides an upfront cash incentive per watt for residential solar installations, paid directly to the installer and passed to the homeowner as a system cost reduction.
Available to all New York homeowners through 2032. For a $23,680 system, this means a $7,104 tax credit.
New York exempts solar installations from property tax assessments, meaning your home value increases without raising your property taxes. Solar equipment purchases in New York are exempt from state sales tax, providing additional upfront savings. Over a 25-year period, the typical New York homeowner saves $58,556 with solar — making it one of the best long-term investments available for your home.
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New York Solar FAQ
How much do solar panels cost in New York?▼
The average cost of solar panels in New York is $2.96 per watt before incentives. For a typical 8kW system, that's $23,680 before the 30% federal tax credit, or $16,576 after. Actual costs vary based on your roof, equipment choice, and installer.
How much can I save with solar in New York?▼
New York homeowners with an 8kW solar system can save an estimated $58,556 over 25 years. With an average electricity rate of 26.39¢/kWh and 3.9 peak sun hours per day, solar is a strong investment in New York. The average payback period is 6 years.
Does New York have net metering?▼
New York offers full retail rate net metering. This means you receive full retail rate credit for excess solar energy sent back to the grid, maximizing your savings.
What solar incentives are available in New York?▼
New York homeowners can take advantage of the 30% federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) through 2032. Additionally, New York offers a state tax credit of 25% up to $5,000. The state also has: NY-Sun $0.20/W. Solar installations are exempt from property tax increases. Solar equipment purchases are exempt from sales tax.
How many peak sun hours does New York get?▼
New York averages 3.9 peak sun hours per day annually. This means an 8kW solar system in New York would produce approximately 11,388 kWh per year. Peak sun hours vary by season and specific location within the state.
Is solar worth it in New York?▼
Yes, solar is worth it for most homeowners in New York. With a 6-year average payback period and 25+ year panel lifespan, you'll enjoy 19+ years of essentially free electricity after your system pays for itself. The combination of 26.39¢/kWh electricity rates, 3.9 peak sun hours, and available incentives makes New York a great state for solar.
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Quick New York Solar Facts
- ☀️ Peak Sun Hours: 3.9h/day
- 💡 Electricity Rate: 26.39¢/kWh
- 💰 Cost per Watt: $2.96
- 📊 Net Metering: Full Retail Rate
- 🔋 Payback Period: 6 years
- 🌱 RPS Goal: 70%
- 🏠 Property Tax: Exempt
- 🛒 Sales Tax: Exempt