New York may not be the sunniest state, receiving an average of 4.5 hours of peak sunlight per day, but it ranks among the top 10 states for solar energy adoption. This is due to robust state incentives, federal tax benefits, and an increasing push toward clean energy. In this guide, we’ll explore the best solar energy companies in New York, updated costs for 2024, and everything you need to know about going solar in the Empire State.
Why Solar Energy Makes Sense in New York
New York has aggressively promoted solar energy as part of its climate and clean energy goals. As of 2024, the state aims to generate 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Incentives like the NY-Sun Initiative and a 25% state tax credit—combined with the federal tax credit—make solar energy a highly cost-effective solution for residents and businesses alike.
Here’s why solar energy is a smart choice in New York:
Long-Term Durability: Solar panels typically last over 25 years with minimal efficiency loss.
Electricity Savings: New Yorkers pay an average of $0.21 per kWh, one of the highest rates in the U.S. Solar panels can reduce these costs significantly, with homeowners saving around $1,600 annually.
Property Value Increase: Solar installations can boost a home’s resale value by 4.1% on average.
Top 7 Solar Energy Companies in New York
Here are New York’s top solar energy companies, found after lots of research!
SunPower
Overview: SunPower continues to lead with its Maxeon panels, which boast an efficiency rate of up to 22.8%, among the highest in the market.
Cost: $3.30 to $4.00 per watt; an average 8 kW system costs $26,400 to $32,000 before incentives.
Key Features:
- 25-year comprehensive warranty.
- SunVault battery for energy storage during outages.
- Flexible payment options: loans, leases, and PPAs.
Why Choose SunPower: Best for premium efficiency and long-term performance.
Website: www.sunpower.com
Venture Solar
Overview: A local favorite in NYC, Venture Solar is known for sleek, wire-free installations and top-tier American-made panels.
Cost: Not publicly listed; typically competitive with local installers.
Key Features:
- $0-down financing options.
- Enphase microinverters for improved energy production.
- Fast installation, often completed within one day.
Why Choose Venture Solar: Best for stylish, modern panel designs.
Website: www.venturesolar.com
Momentum Solar
Overview: Momentum offers end-to-end solar solutions, from installation to monitoring and even EV charger setups.
Cost: $2.80 to $3.20 per watt; an 8 kW system costs $22,400 to $25,600 before incentives.
Key Features:
- 25-year warranty on panels and inverters.
- Financing options include cash, loans, leases, and PPAs.
- Complimentary energy audits.
Why Choose Momentum Solar: Best for hassle-free solar integration and monitoring.
Website: www.momentumsolar.com
Sunrun
Overview: Sunrun is the largest residential solar company in the U.S., specializing in flexible leasing options.
Cost: $2.70 to $3.10 per watt; average costs range from $21,600 to $24,800 for an 8 kW system before incentives.
Key Features:
- Two leasing options with no upfront costs.
- 24/7 customer support and panel insurance.
- Solar battery integration available in select areas.
Why Choose Sunrun: Best for low upfront costs and production guarantees.
Website: www.sunrun.com
Palmetto Solar
Overview: Palmetto excels in providing comprehensive protection plans and quality installations.
Cost: $20,000 to $25,000 for an average system.
Key Features:
- 25-year warranty and maintenance services.
- Protection Plan with monitoring and maintenance discounts.
- Flexible payment options.
Why Choose Palmetto: Best for long-term protection and customer support.
Website: www.palmetto.com
Solanta Solar
Overview: Solanta stands out for integrating smart home technology with solar installations.
Cost: Pricing not publicly listed.
Key Features:
- Pearl Certification for increased home value.
- Additional services like home automation and security systems.
Why Choose Solanta: Best for smart home integration.
Website: www.solanta.com
Trinity Solar
Overview: A well-established company with over 30 years of experience, Trinity Solar serves the East Coast.
Cost: $20,000 to $25,000 for a typical system.
Key Features:
- 5 to 25-year warranties, depending on the product.
- Uses high-quality Qcells panels and Tesla Powerwalls.
- Flexible financing options.
Why Choose Trinity Solar: Best for experienced, reliable installations.
Website: www.trinity-solar.com
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.
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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 for solar energy companies
1. Which solar energy companies is best in New York?
Choosing the right solar energy companies 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.