Solar Panels in New York2026 Cost Guide & Incentives
Average cost, state incentives, payback estimates, and how to find certified installers in New York.
$19,000–$33,000
Avg system cost
$13,300–$23,100
After 30% ITC
4.2 hrs/day
Peak sun hours
$0.220/kWh
Avg rate
Is Solar Worth It in New York?
Based on a home with a $150/month electric bill in New York
Est. system size
4.9 kW
Gross cost
$14,239
Federal tax credit
−$4,272
State credit
−$3,560
Year-1 savings
$1,800
20-year savings
$45,911
Estimated payback: 3.6 years — then 16 years of free electricity.
* Estimates assume $2.90/W installed, 92% solar offset, and 3% annual electricity rate inflation. Get an installer quote to confirm your actual savings.
New York Solar Incentives & Policies
Federal
Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30%
of total system cost — off your federal tax bill
Available through 2032
New York State
New York Solar Tax Credit
25%
Up to $5,000 off your state income taxes
Additional New York Solar Policies
Net Metering: Available — excess energy credited to your bill
Property Tax Exemption: Solar system value exempt from property taxes
Sales Tax Exemption: Solar equipment exempt from state sales tax
Solar Installation Cost in New York by System Size
| System size | Gross cost | After 30% ITC | Year-1 savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $12,272,800 | $8,585,960 | $1,551,396/yr |
| 7 kW | $17,181,920 | $12,022,344 | $2,171,954/yr |
| 9 kW | $22,091,040 | $15,458,728 | $2,792,513/yr |
| 12 kW | $29,454,720 | $20,613,304 | $3,723,350/yr |
* Costs based on $2.90/W national average. New York installer pricing may vary ±15%.
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Frequently Asked Questions — Solar in New York
How much do solar panels cost in New York?
Solar installation in New York typically costs $19,000–$33,000 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit and New York's 25% state credit, most homeowners pay $13,300–$23,100 net.
Is solar worth it in New York?
Yes — New York homeowners benefit from 4.2 average peak sun hours per day and relatively high electricity rates ($0.220/kWh). The 30% federal ITC combined with 25% state credit up to $5,000 + ny-sun incentive program make the financial case strong for most homeowners.
What state incentives are available for solar in New York?
25% state credit up to $5,000 + NY-Sun incentive program. On top of state incentives, all New York homeowners qualify for the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Your solar system is also exempt from property tax assessment. Solar equipment is exempt from sales tax in ${s.name}.
How long is the payback period for solar in New York?
Based on New York's average electricity rate of $0.220/kWh and 4.2 peak sun hours, most homeowners see payback in 3.6–5 years. Systems then produce free electricity for 15–20+ more years.
Does New York have net metering?
Yes — New York has a net metering policy that credits your utility bill for excess electricity your system sends back to the grid. This significantly improves your ROI.