I remember my great-grandfather fondly discussing what it was like in 1910 when folks were healthily debating the idea of whether or not airplanes could ever be used as a mode of transportation. Trains were the choice of travel for the sophisticated traveler, and the thinking at the time was that even if you could fly multiple people at one time, the experience most certainly would be subpar to the posh dining space of a train. Little did they know in 4 short years, the first passenger airline service would start transporting passengers between St Petersburg and Tampa, Florida, and by the 1950s, roast beef, lobster, and prime rib would be served in the sky.
The innovation of solar energy for a place like New York is discussed by some folks in a similar way to the one they discussed about airplane travel with my great-grandfather. To take energy from the sun in a place that does not receive a ton of sunlight and turn it into enough electricity to provide sufficient power for a home or business is not practical. 20 years ago, that may have been correct, but let’s fast forward in time. Even though NY does not receive as much sunlight as places like Arizona or California, solar energy in NY makes sense for many businesses and homes. Let me explain why.
Is Installing Solar Panels Worth it In New York?
Does New York get enough sunlight for solar?
Solar electricity production is obviously influenced by the number of hours of sunlight received in a day. So the question behind the question is, “How many sun hours on an annual average do I need for solar to be worth it”? You will find some recommendations stating you should have at least 4 hours or more of peak sunlight for solar to make sense. However, what this does not tell you is how long it will take for your solar investment to pay for itself. You could have a solar project in upstate NY receive 3.8 daily peak sun hours while another solar project on the Eastern Shore of Maryland receives 4.47 daily peak sun hours, and the project in Upstate NY will have a shorter payback.
If electricity production were the only factor in a solar payback, it would be much more straightforward. In the right situations, solar in any part of the state of NY does get enough sunlight for it to make sense. With the cost of solar panels decreasing, adding a few panels to increase production is no longer as costly as it once was.
So you may be asking, how could a solar project in upstate NY have a shorter payback than a place that has more sunlight.
New York state incentives for solar installations
New York state has one of the most generous incentives for solar in the North East. In addition to the nationwide incentive, the Federal Income Tax Credit, NY has an upfront NYSERDA Grant and a residential State Tax Credit. Businesses can also claim depreciation in addition to the incentives already mentioned.
The NYSERDA grant, available for residential and non-residential projects, pays for 12%—20% of the cost of a solar system.
The NY State Tax Credit is equal to 25% of your solar project with a limit of $5,000. Any credit amount in excess of the tax due can be carried over for up to five years.
Below is an example of a 10 kW solar panel system in central NY. A system of this size would cover an electric bill of roughly $120/month.
Once you understand the financials of a solar payback and the decision has been made to go solar, what comes next?
Items needed for a solar installation in New York
You will need a Building Permit
A building permit will most likely be required before solar panels can be installed on your property. Your solar contractor should be responsible for applying for the permit and paying for any associated costs.
Utility Regulations
In addition to the building permit, approval from your local utility company will be needed to connect your solar system to the electrical grid. This is called an Interconnection Agreement (ICA). Most Utilities will inspect the solar system at the completion of the project to ensure it complies with local electrical standards. The ICA is expensive, just like the permit, and your solar contractor should be responsible for applying for the permit and paying the associated cost.
Choosing the best solar installer in New York
All the details that go into a solar installation can be overwhelming. The process can feel daunting because of the upfront cost, tax benefits and forms, grants, required permits, utility agreements, and the associated paperwork. That is why it’s so important to hire a credible solar installer.
The internet has become a great tool for finding reputable solar installers in your area. The NYSERDA website has a list of reputable NY installers. You may also find our five tips for selecting a solar installer helpful.
Let me tell you a little about Paradise Energy Solutions. We have made raving fans our number one goal, which is evident in our online reviews! We provide a simple process for going solar that removes most of the daunting work off your plate. After installing hundreds of solar systems in New York, we have successful experience working with many different permitting offices and Utilities throughout the state.
New York is a great place for solar, and we would love to help you realize the awesome feeling of never paying your electricity bill again!
