New York isn’t the sunniest state, getting about 4.5 hours of peak sunlight daily. Still, it’s one of the best states for solar energy, ranking 10th in the country. New York offers strong incentives to make solar more affordable, like the NY-Sun Megawatt Block Program, which gives upfront rebates to help lower costs, and a 25% state tax credit, saving up to $5,000. Combined with a federal tax credit, many people can save around 30% on their solar installation costs.
If you’re thinking about getting solar panels in New York, there are several good companies to choose from. Venture Solar, Momentum, and Sunrun offer efficient solar systems that work well in New York. Sunrun and Palmetto also have flexible payment options, like solar leases and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), and they offer plans for maintenance and system monitoring. This helps make solar energy easier and more affordable for many New Yorkers.
Top 7 Solar Energy Companies in New York
Here are New York’s top solar energy companies, found after lots of research!
SunPower
SunPower is widely recognized as a top choice for solar energy in the U.S., with over 35 years in the industry and installations in all 50 states. Their Maxeon solar panels are among the most efficient, reaching up to 22.8% efficiency, compared to the average solar panel efficiency of around 18-20%. This efficiency makes SunPower panels ideal even in states with less sunlight, like New York. SunPower’s panels come with a 25-year warranty, covering performance and product quality, which provides added peace of mind for long-term use.
In terms of pricing, SunPower panels are often more expensive, averaging $3.30 to $4.00 per watt, depending on location. However, SunPower provides multiple payment options, including solar loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), to help make solar affordable. Their SunVault battery, which provides backup power during outages, is another option for customers who want added energy security.
Venture Solar
Venture Solar is our top choice for stylish panels. They offer $0 down for leasing and loans, plus a 25-year warranty. Their systems look sleek with no visible wires, but they don’t list prices online. They work fast, often finishing in a day. Based in NYC, they use top-tier American panels and Enphase microinverters. They offer solar panel and battery installation with payment options including cash, loan, or lease.
Momentum Solar
Momentum Solar is our top pick for hassle-free solar integration. They offer quality solar panels and Enphase batteries with 25-year warranties. Their services include installation, monitoring, energy audits, and EV charger setup. They provide various payment options like cash, loan, lease, or PPA.
Sunrun
Sunrun Solar is a top choice for leasing solar panels. They offer two lease options and provide 24/7 customer support. They also offer panel insurance. However, solar battery availability varies by location and pricing isn’t online. Sunrun is great for New York homeowners who want solar without a big upfront cost. Their leasing programs come with a production guarantee. They offer various services like solar panel and battery installation, system monitoring, and EV charger installation. Customers can choose from cash purchase, solar loan, lease, or PPA payment options.
Palmetto Solar
Palmetto Solar is our top choice for solar protection plans. They offer a 25-year warranty on systems costing $20,000–$25,000. With 24/7 customer support, they provide peace of mind with their Protection Plan, including monitoring services and maintenance discounts. Palmetto stands out for its quality installations and premium equipment. They offer various services like panel installation, energy audits, and even pest control. Customers have flexible financing options including cash purchase, loan, lease, or PPA.
Solanta Solar
Solanta is a solar company in New York. They know a lot about installing solar panels there. They can make your home smarter and safer by connecting solar with smart home systems. They work with Pearl Certification to boost your home’s value. But their warranty isn’t great, and they don’t give much pricing info online. We picked Solanta because they’re local and experienced. They also do other home projects like security and automation. They offer different ways to pay, like buying outright, getting a loan, or leasing.
Trinity Solar
Trinity Solar is super easy to install. They’ve been around for 30+ years. They use their own licensed technicians. They team up with charities. The warranty lasts 5 to 25 years. It costs $20,000–$25,000. Trinity has a bunch of happy customers. They’re big on the East Coast. They’re all about integrity. They use top-notch gear like Qcells panels and Tesla Powerwalls. They help you finance in four ways: cash, loan, lease, or PPA. They work with Sunnova for leasing and PPAs.
Compare Solar Energy Companies in New York
| Company | Star Rating | Cost of 8 kW System | BBB Rating |
| SunPower | 4.8 | $24,000–$36,000 | A+ |
| Palmetto Solar | 4.7 | $20,000–$25,000 | A+ |
| Sunrun Solar | 4.3 | $20,000–$25,000 | A- |
| Venture | 4.2 | N/A | B- |
| Momentum Solar | 3.8 | $20,000–$25,000 | A+ |
| Solanta | 4.0 | N/A | N/A |
| Trinity | 4.0 | $20,000–$25,000 | A+ |
How Much Does Solar Installation Cost in New York?
In New York, solar panels cost about $2.77 per watt on average, close to the national average of $2.85 per watt. An 8 kW system typically costs $22,160 before incentives. Here’s a table showing prices for different system sizes and the potential yearly savings in New York:
| System Size | System Cost* | Cost After 30% Federal Tax Credit | Yearly Savings |
| 5 kW | $13,850 | $9,695 | $1,136 |
| 6 kW | $16,620 | $11,634 | $1,363 |
| 7 kW | $19,390 | $13,573 | $1,590 |
| 8 kW | $22,160 | $15,512 | $1,818 |
| 9 kW | $24,930 | $17,451 | $2,045 |
| 10 kW | $27,700 | $19,390 | $2,272 |
Factors Affecting Solar Installation Cost in New York
The average cost of a solar system in New York ranges from $11,918 to $19,097. Here are some things that affect the cost:
- Type of solar panel: Monocrystalline panels are efficient but expensive ($1 to $1.50 per watt). Polycrystalline and thin-film panels are cheaper ($0.75 to $1.50 per watt) but less efficient.
- Payment options: Paying in full saves money, while solar loans are good for tax incentives. Leases and PPAs have no upfront costs but don’t save money long-term.
- Additional equipment: Solar batteries and EV chargers increase costs.
- Roof design: Angled roofs need fewer panels; flat roofs need platforms. Roof condition affects installation costs.
Things to Check When Choosing a Solar Energy Companies
There are over 750 solar companies in New York, including 255 installers. Here are some tips to help you choose the right one:
- Cost and Financing: Solar panels are expensive. Compare prices and financing options. Look at what each company offers and see which gives the best value.
- Equipment Quality and Warranties: Good equipment lasts longer and works better, especially in New York’s snowy winters. Check the quality and warranties of the solar panels.
- Company Reputation: Some companies are not trustworthy. Check reviews, BBB ratings, and licenses to make sure the company is reliable.
- Other Services: Some companies also offer roofing or tree removal services. This can save you time and money by reducing the number of contractors you need.
These tips can help you find a good solar installer in New York.
Solar Tax Benefits in New York
New York has tax incentives to help you save money on solar energy. You can use a federal tax credit to get back 30% of what you spend on solar panels. This will decrease to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
Here are the details:
- NY-Sun Initiative: Offers incentives to New York homeowners, with higher rebates for low-income households.
- Megawatt Block Incentive Structure: Provides up to $1,000 for each kilowatt of solar power installed.
- Solar Electric Generating System Tax Abatement (SEGS): Exempts property taxes on solar panel systems and offers a tax abatement.
- New York State Solar Equipment Tax Credit: Offers up to 25% in state tax credit, up to $5,000.
- Home Solar Project State Sales Tax Exemption: Exempts sales tax on solar energy equipment.
Are Solar Panels Worth It in New York?
Yes! Even though it gets cold, New York is great for solar power. Lots of people in New York have solar panels. Here’s why:
- Solar panels make your home worth more money.
- Electricity in New York is expensive, but solar power saves money.
- Solar energy is cheaper than regular electricity.
- By using solar energy, people in New York save about $1,600 every year.
- New York gives you tax breaks and other benefits for using solar power.
- Solar panels can work for 25 years or more without losing much power.
Conclusion
In conclusion, even though New York isn’t super sunny, it offers excellent opportunities for solar power. The top solar energy companies in the state include SunPower, Venture Solar, Momentum Solar, Sunrun, Palmetto Solar, Solanta Solar, and Trinity Solar. These companies provide efficient systems with various payment options and protection plans. The cost of solar installation in New York is reasonable, with potential yearly savings. Solar panels are definitely worth it in New York as they increase home value, save on electricity bills, and offer tax breaks. They are a long-term investment, providing benefits for over 25 years.
FAQs
1. Which solar company is best in New York?
Choosing the right solar company in New York depends on your needs, but any company on our recommended list is a good start.
2. Is solar worth it in New York?
Yes, it’s worth it. New York’s solar incentives can cover almost half of the costs.
3. Do solar panels make sense in New York?
Yes, they do. New York has enough sunlight and tax incentives to make solar panels a smart choice.
4. Do solar panels damage roofs?
No, if installed correctly, solar panels won’t harm your roof.
5. How much do solar panels cost in NY?
Cost varies, but on average, a 6-kilowatt system in New York ranges from $16,000 to $21,000.