New York Solar Guide 2026
Everything New York homeowners need to know: costs, incentives, net metering policy, and what makes this state unique for solar.
Key fact about New York solar
New York's 25% state solar tax credit (up to $5,000) is one of the most generous in the US, and the combination with high electricity rates makes solar very compelling despite lower sun hours.
Peak sun hours
4.1
hrs/day avg
Avg electricity rate
22.0¢
per kWh
Median install cost
$3.2/W
before incentives
Typical payback
9 yrs
8 kW system, avg usage
Typical 8 kW system in New York
Annual production
11,972 kWh
Year-1 savings
$2,634
System cost (est.)
$25,600
No federal tax credit — Section 25D expired December 31, 2025.
New York Net Metering Policy
Full retail net metering (transitioning to VDER)
NY uses full retail net metering for most customers. The Value of Distributed Energy Resources (VDER) tariff applies to larger systems and community solar. NY-Sun drives significant state incentives.
New York Solar Incentives
Available in addition to any utility rebates. Federal 25D credit is $0 for homeowner-owned systems from 2026.
- ✓NY-Sun incentive ($0.20–$0.60/W)
- ✓25% state solar tax credit (up to $5,000)
- ✓Sales tax exemption
- ✓Property tax exemption
Top Utilities in New York
Interconnection timeline: 8–20 weeks (Con Edison notably slower)
Calculate your New York solar economics
Our calculators are pre-filled with New York data. Run any tool below.