New York Solar Panel Cost & Incentives
How much do solar panels cost in New York? Compare solar panel installation costs across 8 state, utility & local incentive programs. Find solar panels for your home, heat pump rebates, EV charger incentives & more.
Programs Available in New York
No-cost energy audit and efficiency upgrades, up to $10,000, including weatherization, heat pumps, and electrical upgrades for qualified homes.
100% credit (up to $10,000)
Up to $840 upfront rebate for an ENERGY STAR® certified heat pump clothes dryer through participating retailers. For income-qualified residents only.
100% credit (up to $840)
Up to $840 upfront rebate for an ENERGY STAR® certified heat pump clothes dryer through participating retailers. For income-qualified residents only.
50% credit (up to $840)
100% of cost of an electric panel upgrade, up to $4,000 for income-eligible residents. Must use a participating contractor.
100% credit (up to $4,000)
100% of cost of electrical wiring, up to $2,500 for income-eligible residents. Must use a participating contractor.
100% credit (up to $2,500)
50% of cost of an electric panel upgrade, up to $4,000 for income-eligible residents. Must use a participating contractor.
50% credit (up to $4,000)
50% of cost of electrical wiring, up to $2,500 for income-eligible residents. Must use a participating contractor.
50% credit (up to $2,500)
Program data sourced live from the Rewiring America API. Utility rates from OpenEI. City solar costs from EnergySage. No data is hardcoded. Run the calculator for your personalised estimate.
Solar Panels for Home in New York: Overview
New York sits in a fascinating spot when it comes to solar and clean energy. The state has always been a bit of a trendsetter — think aggressive climate goals, ambitious laws like the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, and a steady push from both Albany and City Hall (in NYC) to shrink carbon footprints. Much of that momentum is still rolling, but if you’ve been hearing about big federal credits for homeowners, here’s the crucial update: the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) along with other federal home electrification incentives expired at the end of 2025 under the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act. That’s left New York’s own solar incentives, like the NY-Sun rebate and state-level tax breaks, as the main game in town — so folks looking to take the plunge will want to pay extra attention to what’s specifically available here.
What surprises most homeowners is just how high electric rates are in New York. Unlike many other states, we’re consistently 40-60% above the national average — and if you’re in the Con Edison or National Grid territory, you’re likely paying even more. That sticker shock is a huge reason New Yorkers explore solar in the first place. It’s not just about being green, it’s about hedging against unpredictable bills and, over time, potentially coming out ahead financially. That said, the state’s weather isn’t always the friendliest — from snowy winters upstate to haze and shade in city boroughs, solar production here isn’t quite as high as, say, Arizona or California. Still, with the right setup, most homeowners generate enough power to make a real dent in their bills.
Public support for renewables remains strong, driven by everything from political priorities to local pride in leading the charge. But there are some sticking points. Permitting can be slower and more bureaucratic, especially in historic or urban districts. And with federal incentives gone, the upfront financial leap feels bigger, even with the cushion of New York solar rebates and tax exemptions. That means the decision is now more personal — and doing the homework on what New York-specific incentives and programs exist is more important than ever.
New York Solar at a Glance
Avg. System Cost
$17,500 – $23,000
Payback Period
7–11 years
Annual Sun Hours
2,200 hours
Avg. Electric Bill
$150/month
Solar Market
Top 15 state for residential solar
CO₂ Offset / Year
7,500 lbs/year
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in New York?
Let’s talk dollars and cents. For a typical New York homeowner, a residential solar system in the 6 to 8 kW range will run somewhere between $17,500 and $23,000 before factoring in any incentives. That’s a tad higher than the national average (which usually falls in the $16,000–$21,000 range) thanks to pricier labor, permitting, and the unique logistical challenges of installing solar on older homes or multi-story roofs you’ll find across the state. The price-per-watt trend, though, is slowly drifting downward — you’ll now see many New York installers quoting in the $2.70 to $3.25 range before incentives, whereas just a few years ago, $3.50+ was the norm.
Here’s where state programs really start to matter. The NY-Sun incentive typically takes a solid bite out of the upfront cost, with rebates often ranging from $0.20 to $0.50 per watt, depending on your utility territory and how much capacity is left in your region’s block (it’s a declining rebate, so funds can run out). Add in the up-to-25% state solar tax credit (capped at $5,000), and many homeowners see their effective net cost drop by $6,000–$9,000. So even with the federal ITC gone, the numbers can still work in your favor — the trick is stacking those state and local rebates.
As for payback, most see their investment returned in 7 to 11 years. That’s highly dependent on what you’re paying for electricity (the higher your rates, the quicker the payback), your annual sun hours (which in New York run about 2,200), and your system’s size and orientation. The market here does have some big-name installers, but don’t count out strong regional players; competition has kept pricing reasonably honest, but it always pays to get a few quotes and push for specifics.
Is Solar Worth It in New York? Installation Cost & Savings
So, is solar worth it in New York in 2026? For a lot of homeowners — especially those paying high electric rates in Con Ed, Central Hudson, or PSEG Long Island territory — the answer is often yes, but it’s a more nuanced decision than it was a couple years ago. With the federal solar ITC and other big federal credits gone, you’re leaning more heavily on state and utility-level programs. Lucky for us, New York’s still got some of the strongest solar incentives in the country: the NY-Sun rebate (if funding is available for your region), the 25% state solar tax credit (up to $5,000), and strong property and sales tax exemptions. That combination can shave $7,000–$10,000 off the sticker price, bringing the net outlay for a typical 7kW system down to the $12,000–$16,000 range.
With those costs, payback typically lands in the 7 to 11-year neighborhood for most homeowners, shorter if your utility rates are sky-high. And once you’ve hit that break-even point, it’s mostly gravy — solar panels can keep cranking for 25 years or more with minimal maintenance. Of course, solar isn’t a fit for everyone. If your roof’s shaded by trees, faces north, or needs replacing soon, you’ll want to hold off. Permitting can drag out the process in some towns, and some historic districts have tougher design review. And you do need to be comfortable with a long-term commitment — moving within a few years can complicate the financial math, though homes with solar often sell at a premium.
In my experience, what tips the scales for most New Yorkers is future-proofing against rising electric rates and adding some local resilience, especially if you pair solar with a battery. My practical advice? Get at least three detailed bids from local installers (not just the big national names), ask each about available NY-Sun funding and your utility’s exact net metering policy, and check your roof’s orientation with a good satellite tool. It’s all about doing the math for your own situation — but in many corners of New York, the numbers still work.
Net Metering in New York
Net metering in New York has undergone a bit of a metamorphosis in recent years. For systems interconnected before a certain cutoff, many utilities — including Con Edison, National Grid, NYSEG, and RG&E — still offer traditional retail-rate net metering, where every excess kilowatt-hour you push onto the grid earns you a one-for-one credit against your usage. However, newer systems (especially in Con Ed territory) are now subject to what the state calls the Value of Distributed Energy Resources (VDER) tariff, also known as the Value Stack. This compensates you based on a formula that takes into account energy value, capacity, environmental benefits, and even the time of day your system exports power.
Translation: if you’re in parts of the state still under classic net metering, your credits are simple and predictable. But Value Stack customers will see credits fluctuate month-to-month depending on complex factors, and generally, it works out to be slightly less lucrative than true retail net metering — though the gap isn’t enormous for most residential systems, especially if you size your system to offset your own daytime usage. It’s worth double-checking which program your utility and location fall under, because your bill credits could look quite different than your neighbor’s. And keep in mind: credits roll over month-to-month, but not always indefinitely — some utilities have annual true-ups.
Solar Tax Exemptions in New York
One of the underrated perks of going solar in New York is the state’s generous tax treatment. First, there’s a full sales tax exemption for solar PV systems. That means when you fork over $18,000 or so for an install, you’re not paying the usual 4% state or additional local sales taxes, which can shave $600–$1,500 or more off your total bill, depending where you live.
On the property tax side, New York has a state-level law (Real Property Tax Law 487) that exempts the added value of a residential solar system from your property taxes for 15 years. In practice, most municipalities participate, but a few have opted out. So, while your assessment could in theory rise based on your new solar array, most homeowners won’t see a bump in their annual property taxes. Still, because participation can vary by county or town, it’s smart to call your local assessor’s office to double-check. These exemptions definitely help keep the lifetime cost of ownership in check.
Battery Storage Incentives in New York
Batteries are a hot topic everywhere, but in New York, the math is a little complicated. Outages aren’t as frequent here as in hurricane-prone states, but ice storms, nor’easters, and summer grid stress can leave people in the dark, especially upstate or on Long Island. If backup power is your main motivation, a home battery (think a Tesla Powerwall or similar) can absolutely deliver peace of mind — but you’re looking at $10,000 to $15,000 after installation, and with the federal battery ITC now expired, that entire cost falls on you, unless you can tap one of New York’s state-level incentives.
The state’s NY-Sun program has, at times, offered storage incentives (up to $250/kWh for residential batteries), but these can change year to year based on funding. Add to that some utility pilot programs where storage owners get paid for letting the grid draw on their batteries during peak times. Whether a battery pencils out depends on your utility’s rate structure: if you’re in a territory with time-of-use rates or demand charges, there’s more potential to save by using stored power during peak periods. But in most of New York, especially with current incentive levels, it’s still a stretch for pure bill savings. My take: batteries here are best viewed as insurance, not an investment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in New York
Is solar worth it in New York?
Solar is usually a smart bet for New Yorkers paying above-average electric bills, and that’s a lot of people — especially in Con Edison and PSEG territories. With the federal solar tax credit now expired (as of December 2025), your main incentives are state and local: the NY-Sun rebate, the 25% state tax credit (up to $5,000), and strong property/sales tax breaks. Combined, those can knock thousands off the price tag. Payback time generally falls in the 7 to 11-year range — closer to 7 if your rates are high and you’ve got an unshaded, south-facing roof. The math is less compelling if your roof isn’t ideal, or you’re planning to move soon. Bottom line: for most, solar is still a good hedge against rising energy costs, but take the time to get detailed quotes and check your roof before pulling the trigger.
How much do solar panels cost in New York?
Prices can vary quite a bit, but for a typical 6 to 8 kW home system, expect to see quotes from $17,500 to $23,000 before incentives. After stacking the NY-Sun rebate (if available) and the state’s 25% solar tax credit (max $5,000), many homeowners are looking at an effective net cost between $12,000 and $16,000. Factors pushing your price up or down include your roof type, the installer’s overhead, whether you want premium panels or inverters, and even how competitive your local installer market is. Always get at least three quotes, and ask for a breakdown of incentives line-by-line. In my experience, the better prepared you are, the more likely you’ll end up with a fair price.
What solar incentives are available in New York?
The biggest update: the federal 30% solar tax credit expired at the end of 2025. Today, the main incentives for New Yorkers are the NY-Sun block rebate (which varies by region and may have limited funds), the 25% state solar tax credit (capped at $5,000), and both property and sales tax exemptions. Some utilities also offer one-time rebates or performance-based renewable energy credits, though specifics can vary. If you’re served by Con Edison, National Grid, PSEG Long Island, or NYSEG, check their programs directly. Not every county participates in the property tax break, so it’s wise to confirm with your local assessor.
Does New York have net metering?
Most New York utilities still offer some form of net metering, but there’s a split: older systems often get full retail-rate credit for excess power, while newer systems (especially in Con Ed’s area) fall under the Value Stack, which is a bit more complex and may offer slightly less value. Major players like Con Edison, National Grid, NYSEG, and PSEG Long Island all participate, but the details differ. Bottom line: you’ll get credited for what you send to the grid, but the rate and credit math depend on your utility and interconnection date.
Can you get free solar panels in New York?
Despite all the ads, truly free solar panels aren’t a thing. Some companies offer $0-down leases or Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) where they own the system and you pay for the power it generates, usually at a rate lower than the utility. That can help with upfront costs, but you won’t get the same long-term savings or benefit from state tax credits. There are a few low-income programs that can offer steep discounts, but owning your system outright will almost always save more over 20–25 years. Just know what you’re signing up for.
Does New York offer a solar property tax exemption?
Yes, New York generally exempts the value of your solar system from property taxes for 15 years under state law (RPTL 487). Most counties and municipalities participate, but a handful have opted out. To be sure, always check with your county or town assessor’s office before signing a contract. This exemption means your assessment won’t jump just because you added panels—definitely a financial plus.
How long until solar pays for itself in New York?
With state incentives and high electric rates, most New York homeowners see solar pay for itself in 7 to 11 years. If you live in a high-cost area and have a good roof, it could be closer to 7; if your rates are lower or you get less sun, it’ll be on the longer end. Factors that affect payback: your utility’s rates, your system size and orientation, NY-Sun rebate availability, and whether you qualify for the full state tax credit. Always run the numbers on your specific situation.
Are there solar battery rebates in New York?
The federal 30% battery tax credit expired at the end of 2025, so that’s off the table. However, New York’s NY-Sun program has offered storage incentives for residential batteries (usually up to $250/kWh, but this changes as funds are allocated). Some utilities also run small pilot programs or offer payments for letting them use your battery during peak demand. Availability and rebate levels can change, so check NYSERDA’s website or ask your installer about current deals in your area.
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Calculate My SavingsSolar Companies in New York
17 verified installers serving New York
Infinity Energy (Infinity Solar Systems LLC)
EliteInfinity Energy has been named INSTALLER OF THE YEAR 2025 & 2026, a prestigious back-to-back achievement that reflects our position as the tri-state's premier one-stop shop for clean energy. As an EnergySage Elite+ Installer and NYSERDA Gold Status recipient, we provide: Master Craftsmanship: All installations are performed by our own highly trained, in-house experts.
Leviathan Solar Inc
PremierLeviathan Solar Inc strives to provide competitive pricing with top of the line products and warranties.
New York State Solar Farm
PremierNew York State Solar Farm brings you complete home solar and storage solutions with the most powerful and efficient technology in the industry. All provided to you under one company to give you total peace of mind as your chosen installer. As a local, certified solar installer, we offer the most inclusive solar system design, engineered to work perfectly for your home. New York State Solar Farm is a local, family owned company, serving as a primary Hudson Valley Solar Installer since 2007. NYSSF has offered an escape from rising utility costs, tax benefits, and savings from day one. We've installed over 15,000 solar systems for families and businesses in our communities, and we look forward to helping you too! Top quality solar solutions we offer include REC, Hyundai, Jinko Eagles, and Maxeon solar as well as Enphase and Tesla battery storage solutions. SERVICE AREAS: Ulster Dutchess Orange Rockland Westchester Greene Columbia Saratoga Albany Schenectady Rensselaer Putnam Sullivan Delaware Schoharie
Kasselman Solar
PremierKasselman Solar's mission is twofold: To help homeowners and businesses in New York State save money on costly utility bills and increase their property values by providing clean energy with solar panels. To do good for the planet by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and demand for fossil fuels through solar energy.
Palmetto Energy
PremierPalmetto is leading the world into a clean energy future by making it easy for homeowners across the United States to switch from fossil fuels to solar energy. Our end-to-end approach takes the guesswork out of solar savings, guarding individual and natural resources from unnecessary waste.
Solar Liberty
PreferredSolar Liberty is the most experienced turnkey solar installer in New York State while being recognized as a 'NYSERDA Quality Installer - 2024'. We offer cash, loan, and lease options to go solar. By selecting Solar Liberty to install your system, you can be confident you are choosing industry-leading experience and quality, guaranteed! Our experience, educational approach, and turnkey service offers you the opportunity to easily and seamlessly go solar. Once we have a copy of your electric bill, Solar Liberty handles the rest. We manage all coordination and paperwork to secure incentives, permitting, and utility interconnection for our customers. Go green, save green by giving us a call for a free assessment today!
New York Power Solutions
PreferredOur Proposals are extremely in depth, we don't snag people with a monthly savings figure. We give them a detailed overview of their situation and give them accurate numbers on how going solar can benefit them. Our approach is to educate, provide as much information as possible, and then let the customer make an informed decision. Our crews are very experienced and are doing installs every day. We are the largest privately owned solar company on Long Island and Westchester County. We have done well over 2800 installations and sell more Lg Panels then anyone in the entire Northeast. A 25 year warranty is a relationship. Let us show you why building that relationship with us is the right choice!
SUNation Energy
PreferredFor over 20+ years, SUNation has helped over 10,000 of your friends and neighbors go solar on Long Island! We are one of the largest solar contractors on Long Island - with an industry leading commitment to quality and client service. Our reviews speak for themselves - we take pride in our work. From solar for your home and/or business, roofing services, battery storage, EV charging, and more, experience the SUNation difference!
Greenpoint Solar and Electrical, Inc.
VerifiedAt Greenpoint Solar, our experienced team is here to help you with all of your solar and energy needs. We offer a variety of services, including solar panel installation, electric vehicle charging stations, energy storage solutions, and more. We look forward to working with you to create a custom solar plan that meets your energy needs and budget.
PTM Solar Inc
VerifiedNYSERDA Certified Installer and builder. Local Company out of Syracuse. No funny business only sunny business. By transitioning to solar energy, homeowners and businesses can significantly reduce their monthly electricity costs. For example, many of our clients have reported savings of up to 50% on their energy bills after installing our solar systems. Financing Options: We offer flexible financing plans, including zero-down options, making solar more accessible than ever. Our team will guide you through available incentives and rebates, maximizing your savings. Tailored Designs: At PTM Solar, we understand that every property is unique. Our expert engineers conduct thorough assessments to create customized solar solutions tailored to your specific energy needs and site conditions. Scalability: Whether you need a small residential system or a large commercial installation, our solutions can be scaled to fit your requirements perfectly. Top-Tier Products: We partner with leading manufacturers to provide high-quality solar panels and equipment known for their durability and efficiency. Our products come with industry-leading warranties, ensuring peace of mind. Expert Installation: Our certified installation team follows best practices and safety protocols to ensure a seamless installation process, delivering reliable performance from day one. Environmental Impact: By choosing solar energy, you contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promote a cleaner environment. Our systems help you play an active role in the fight against climate change. Community Engagement: PTM Solar is committed to local communities. We participate in educational programs and initiatives that promote solar energy awareness and sustainability practices. End-to-End Service: From initial consultation to post-installation support, PTM Solar provides a full range of services. Our team is with you every step of the way, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Ongoing Maintenance: We offer maintenance packages and monitoring services to ensure your solar system operates at peak performance, maximizing your return on investment.
GreenSpark Solar
VerifiedWe're GreenSpark Solar, one of New York State's most experienced solar and battery installers. We're strengthening our local communities while combating climate change through quality, cost-effective, clean energy solutions. We've provided our customers with an unmatched solar experience for over two decades. Let our expert team help you maximize your energy savings and make your transition to clean energy seamless and stress-free.
Alternative Power Solutions of NY, LLC
VerifiedAPS is the longest standing solar installer in Central NY. With over 15 years of experience, you will be working with a company that has proven it can deliver a good product year after year and keep in good standings with the community. We have over decade of tribal knowledge obtained by working with local permitting offices and utility companies like NYSEG and National Grid. This means high quality designs, with quicker than average turnaround. Our overhead is low, allowing us the ability to offer some of the lowest prices in Central New York. We work collaboratively with you from start to finish, ensuring you get a customized product tailored to your needs.
Nickels Energy Solutions
VerifiedNickels Energy Solutions (NES) provides high quality Solar PV installations and Electric Vehicle charger installations throughout Upstate NY. NES earned the Quality Solar Installer designation from NYSERDA for 2024. NES focuses first and foremost on our customer's goals at their property. We take the time to listen and understand what is important to you -- and then we develop a plan that will meet or exceed your goals. We make it easy to go solar with our free estimate process and our $0 down solar loan! Whether you already have an Electric Vehicle OR think your next vehicle will be an Electric Vehicle, talk to NES about installing a charger as a part of your solar installation.
Samba Energy
VerifiedPower your home or business with smarter, cleaner energy solutions tailored to your needs. Samba Energy delivers affordable solar, storage, EV charging, and efficiency upgrades — all with expert guidance and financing options.
Sea Bright Solar
VerifiedWe take our reputation seriously by providing the highest-quality Sea Bright technology and unmatched customer service at affordable prices with an array of financing options.
Greenleaf Solar
VerifiedWhen you choose GreenLeaf, you're not just getting solar panels - you're partnering with a local team that cares about your satisfaction and the future of our shared environment. We're here to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and ensure you have a seamless, positive experience as you transition to clean energy.
Voltaic Solaire LLC
VerifiedIntroducing Voltaic Solaire, where innovation meets sustainability to power your world. Are you ready to embrace the future of energy? With Voltaic Solaire, you're not just purchasing solar panels; you're investing in a brighter, cleaner tomorrow. Our cutting-edge solar technology harnesses the power of the sun to provide renewable energy solutions for your home or business. Why choose Voltaic Solaire? Here are just a few reasons: Efficiency: Our solar panels are engineered for maximum efficiency, ensuring you get the most out of every ray of sunlight. Sustainability: By choosing Voltaic Solaire, you're reducing your carbon footprint and contributing to a cleaner environment. Reliability: Our products are built to last, with durable materials and rigorous testing to ensure optimal performance even in challenging conditions. Affordability: Say goodbye to skyrocketing energy bills. Voltaic Solaire offers cost-effective solutions that help you save money while doing your part for the planet. Join the solar revolution with Voltaic Solaire and experience the power of the sun like never before. Contact us today to learn more about how you can make the switch to clean, renewable energy with Voltaic Solaire.
Supplier data sourced from the EnergySage API via our backend. Ratings and reviews are verified by EnergySage.
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