Best 10 Solar Companies in New York City, NY
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New York City homeowners are intentional about conserving resources and living sustainably. That's why many homeowners are purchasing panels from the best solar companies for their homes. Solar installers take a distinctively educational approach, helping homeowners understand the underlying technology and adapt it to their needs. Discover New York City's best solar companies and learn key decision-making tips on this page.
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- Builds custom, high-efficiency solar systems suited to each home
- Extensive coverage area throughout the country
- Offers energy storage and EV charger add-ons
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- Provides system monitoring
- Offers diverse financing options for various budgets
- Provides EV and solar battery solutions
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- Offers 7 panel brand options
- 25-year workmanship warranty
- Offers battery options
10 Best Solar Companies in New York City
Brands are algorithmically curated from a database of local service providers near you. We require a minimum number of Google reviews and average ratings for provider inclusion.
Kamtech Solar Solutions
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Based on 71 reviews
SunPower
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Based on 91 reviews
Blue Shield Solar
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Based on 26 reviews
Sustainable Solar and Storage, LLC
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Based on 21 reviews
Advanced Solar Solutions
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Based on 41 reviews
Solar Mentor
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Based on 55 reviews
Solar Pro
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Based on 52 reviews
Mpower Solar
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Based on 136 reviews
Brooklyn SolarWorks
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Based on 148 reviews
Alerce Solar
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Based on 45 reviews
Best of the rest
Below are home warranty companies that provide decent coverage but fell short of top scores in our rating system. We recommend these only for specific coverage needs.
Nexamp
4.3/ 5154 W 14th St 2nd floor, New York, NY 10011
(914) 227-2323
Green Mountain Energy
4.2/ 516 Madison Square N #1200, New York, NY 10010
(800) 636-5690
Solanta
4.2/ 5199 Tompkins Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11206
(929) 389-0663
J Synergy Green, Inc.
4.6/ 599 Main St, East Rockaway, NY 11518
(516) 331-2020
Robinhood Solar Group
4.7/ 548 Guenther Pl, Passaic, NJ 07055
(862) 295-2535
Ranking Methodology
Our team has thoroughly vetted dozens of solar companies near New York City, concentrating on the following criteria:
- Certifications and licenses: Each provider on our list complies with state and city licensing requirements and stays up to date with industry best practices. Many of them have served the New York City community for over 15 years.
- Feedback and reviews from customers: Most New York City solar installers have both favorable and unfavorable reviews. However, a good review ratio indicates a company's dependability and responsiveness to issues.
- Warranty and service offerings: Solar contractors should stand behind their systems and services with warranties. We evaluated how each contractor responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on timeliness and customer satisfaction.
- Panel quality and brand offerings: The top solar companies stay up-to-date with new technology, offering equipment from cutting-edge and trustworthy manufacturers.
- Educational programs and business model: Solar technicians must be good teachers. They should utilize their years of experience address your questions on how to maintain your system and improve its performance.
Facts about New York City
- Average Max Temperature:60°F
- Solar Payback Period:8 years
- Average Daily Sunlight:58%
- Homes Powered by Solar:50,697
- Average Annual Energy Bill:$1,878
- Solar Power per Capita:54.0%
Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple advantages. Here are some highlights.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is a highly abundant clean energy source, meaning you can reduce or eliminate your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.
- Better energy independence: Photovoltaic solar panel systems with energy storage systems operate through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to depend on your power company for your safety and comfort.
- Smaller power bills: Sourcing some or all of your own electricity will spend less on electricity long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that allow you to sell your surplus energy back to the grid, generating additional credits toward your energy bill.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to New York City Homeowners?
New York's public agencies and power companies offer a range of solar incentives to help lower your solar system costs. Below is a breakdown of relevant solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type:Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
Installed from August 5, 2008 to December 31, 2010: 8.75% of system expenditures per year for 4 years (total of 35%);
Installed from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2012: 5% of system expenditures per year for 4 years (total of 20%);
Installed from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2013: 2.5% of system expenditures per year for 4 years (total of 10%)
Installed from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2016: 5% of the system expenditures per year for 4 years
Installed from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2018: 5% of the system expenditures per year for 4 years
Incentive Type:PACE Financing
Incentive Amount:
Locally determined
Incentive Type:Personal Tax Credit
Website:http://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/credits/solar_energy_system_equipment_credit.htm
Incentive Amount:
25% for solar-electric (PV) and solar-thermal systems; for third-party owned systems this is in reference to the aggregate amount owed under the contract rather than the amount owed in any single year
Incentive Type:Corporate Tax Credit
Incentive Amount:
$0.01/gallon for each percent of biodiesel
Incentive Type:Loan Program
Website:http://ny-sun.ny.gov/Get-Solar/NY-Sun-Financing.aspx
Incentive Amount:
Residential Customers: $1,500 - $25,000
Small Business and Not-for-Profit Organizations:
Participation Loans: up to $100,000 (at low interest rate)
On-Bill Recovery loans: $50,000 at 2%
Incentive Type:Sales Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% exemption
Incentive Type:Sales Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
Upon local authorization, 100% exemption from local sales tax
Incentive Type:Sales Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% exemption from state sales tax
Incentive Type:Sales Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% local sales tax exemption
Incentive Type:Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
Upon local adoption, 20% - 100% of real property taxes owed; varies by year and certification level
Incentive Type:Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% of the value added to the residence by the improvements
Incentive Type:Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% exemption for 15 years (unless local jurisdiction has opted out)
Incentive Type:Rebate Program
Incentive Amount:
Incentive rates step down over time as MW goals are met. Incentive rates as of 11/27/2019 are:
Residential:
Long Island Region: $0.00/W (MW blocks have been fully subscribed)
Con Edison Region: $0.30/W
Upstate Region: $0.35/W
Low-to-Moderate income customers: $0.80/W (up to 10 kW)
Small Commercial (Non-Residential):Long Island Region: $0.00/W (MW blocks have been fully subscribed)
Con Edison Region: $0.60/W
Up State Region: $0.45/W
Multifamily Affordable Housing Adder: additional $0.40/W (up to 50 kW)
Incentive Type:Rebate Program
Website:https://www.psegliny.com/saveenergyandmoney/energystarrebates
Incentive Amount:
Appliances
Advanced Power Strips: $10 - $20
Air Purifier: $25 - $50
Clothes Dryer: $50 - $250
Clothes Washer: $50
Dehumidifier: $30
Dishwasher: $50
Exhaust Fan: $20 - $25
Electric Freezer: $30
Heat Pump Water Heater: $650
Pool Pumps: $150 - $350
Refrigerator: $50
Refrigerator Recycling: $50
Lighting
Instant Rebates Vary by Product
Bulk Light Purchases: Up to $2 - $3/unit
Cooling & Heating
Central Air Conditioning: $450
Smart Thermostat: $85
Ground Source Heat Pump: $2,000/ton
Incentive Type:Rebate Program
Website:https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/All-Programs/Programs/Ground-Source-Heat-Pump-Rebate
Incentive Amount:
Small Systems (≤ 10 cooling tons): $1,500/cooling ton
Large Systems (> 10 cooling tons): $1,200/cooling ton
Incentive Type:Other Incentive
Incentive Type:Personal Tax Credit
Website:http://www.tax.ny.gov/forms/corp_credit_forms.htm
Incentive Amount:
$0.01/gallon for each percent of biodiesel
Incentive Type:Rebate Program
Incentive Amount:
Tier I: 10,000 kWh of expected annual energy production: $3.50/annual kWh
Tier II: 10,000 kWh - 125,000 kWh of expected annual energy production: $1.00/annual kWh
Tier III: 125,000 kWh - 1,000,000 kWh of expected annual energy production: $0.30/ annual kWh
Tier IV: Greater than 1,000,000 kWh of expected annual energy production: $0.15/ annual kWh
These incentives are additive.
Incentive Type:Performance-Based Incentive
Incentive Amount:
- Capacity Incentive: Varies on the construction and design of the system
- Performance Incentive: $0.025/kWh production payment for new systems for up to 10 years (estimated using a capacity factor of 75%)
- Interconnection Incentive: up to 75% of the costs exceeding $5,000
- Project Enhancement Incentives: Available for Black Start Capability, Hydrogen Sulfide reduction, design for accepting food waste and others
Incentive Type:Personal Tax Credit
Website:https://www.ecowatch.com/solar/ev-appliance-solar-tax-credit-calculator
Incentive Amount:
30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.
How To Choose the Best Solar Company in New York City
Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and cost-efficient solar system. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.
Licensing and Training
New York state does not issue licenses to contractors, so you should check with your city or county government for its specific requirements and regulations. Look for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar industry's most respected trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.
Cost of Solar Panels in New York City
The style of solar panels you choose dictates how much energy you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.
You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can enhance your solar system's performance. Not all solar contractors provide these add-ons, so look for a company that installs them if it's essential for you.
If you're a resident of New York City and are looking into a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $18,250 for materials and labor. Find more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,399 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $1,091 |
| Thin-Film | $638 |
| Solar Battery | $895 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $3,357 |
Financing Solar Energy in New York City
Solar providers offer multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are power purchase agreements (PPAs), solar leases, solar loans and cash payments. Most solar experts recommend paying cash or using a solar loan. Cash payments require a large up-front sum, but they save you from paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Like a home or car loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) permits you to pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the system and cannot use solar incentives. Look for contractors that offer two or more payment plans to find the right fit for your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in New York City.
The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal tax credit for solar panels on total system costs, so long as you purchase it before 2032. City and state governments and utilities might also offer their own incentives, rebates, and financing programs that could save you more money.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 2.6 years |
| 2 kW | 5.1 years |
| 5 kW | 12.9 years |
| 10 kW | 25.7 years |
Frequently Asked Questions about Solar in New York City
Most New York City homeowners spend about $1,878 on energy each year. Your costs could drop by $1,685.29 for each kilowatt you generate after you pay off a solar array.
Yes, solar energy is readily available in New York City. A growing number of area homes are already using solar power on-site or through utility grids, and New York has about 10740 jobs forming its solar economy.
Yes, new solar systems mean higher property values according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL.) Homeowners could project a $20 property value increase for each dollar they save on energy. Therefore, $600 in energy savings could boost your property value by $12,000.
Modern solar panels are designed for durability. The average panel lasts at least 25 years. Lower-cost panels tend to have shorter lifespans than higher-quality models.
There's no universal answer for how long a solar project might take. Ultimately, it depends on panel style, the necessary prework, the permitting and inspection process, local weather, and system size. Most homeowners can be solar-ready within a couple of months from their initial estimate visit.
The average payback period for a solar loan in New York City is 7.6 years. By paying off extra principal each month, you can shorten the payback period and own your system faster.
After you sign a power purchase agreement, your solar provider will not charge to install or maintain your new panel array. Instead, you'll pay them only for the electricity you generate. Typically, PPAs last for 10–25 years or until you "buy out" of the contract.
If you choose a lease, you'll make set payments each month.
With both leases and PPAs, you do not own your panels and lose eligibility for most incentives. Further, you'll have to "buy out" or transfer the contract if you sell your home during the term.
The main differences between a PPA and traditional financing are that you pay a fluctuating monthly rate based on your energy usage and don't own your system. Your solar company installs and maintains the panels, and you pay for the generated electricity for 10–25 years. Afterward, you can extend the agreement or buy the system.
You might consider a PPA if you don’t want to be responsible for maintaining your panels and don’t want to invest in a system, but keep in mind you won’t be paying toward ownership or be able to access any solar financial incentives. Many solar experts don’t recommend PPAs. Our guide covers other financing options above.
Sources
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