The 5 best solar installers in New York
SUNation Energy Local
Why listed: Operating since 2003. Voted Long Island's best solar company for 13 consecutive years. NYSERDA Gold Status Quality Installer — highest tier of certification in NY.
EmPower Solar Local
Why listed: Operating since 2003. 4,000+ residential and commercial installations. Strong reputation for design quality and post-install support.
Trinity Solar National
Why listed: 30+ years of experience installing residential solar arrays, 100,000+ installs across the Northeast. NABCEP-certified installers; in-house roof leak warranty (important in NY's freeze-thaw climate).
Infinity Energy Local
Why listed: Solar Power World's Installer of the Year (2025 and 2026). Strong customer service and in-house install crews — important for warranty work over a 25-year system life.
NY State Solar Local
Why listed: Authorized NYSERDA contractor specializing in customized residential PV. Strong NYC permitting expertise — important given NYC's unique inspection and FDNY rapid-shutdown requirements.
New York solar economics in 2026
| Metric | New York average |
|---|---|
| Average residential rate | $0.21–$0.25 / kWh |
| Typical 8 kW system cost (cash) | $22,000–$28,000 before incentives |
| Average $/W | $2.75–3.50 |
| Average annual production (kWh per kW) | ~1,150–1,300 kWh/kW/year |
| Net metering structure | Net metering (Value of Distributed Energy Resources, VDER) — close to full retail credit |
| Average cash payback | 10–12 years |
For full state-by-state cost comparison see solar cost by state.
New York incentives and rebates
- NY-Sun Megawatt Block: NYSERDA upfront rebate, value depends on region and block availability. Check current block status before signing.
- State tax credit: 25% of system cost, capped at $5,000.
- Real property tax exemption: NY exempts the added home value from solar for 15 years (must apply with local assessor).
- NYC abatement: NYC residents get an additional 30% property tax abatement spread over 4 years for systems on residential properties.
- Federal commercial ITC: Lease and PPA structures benefit from the commercial ITC pass-through. See federal tax credit guide.
What to verify before signing in New York
- Contractor license: Verify with your state contractor licensing authority before signing.
- NABCEP certification: Most reputable installers carry NABCEP-certified installers on staff. Ask which crew member holds the certification.
- Insurance: General liability + workers comp + roofer's insurance separate from electrical insurance.
- References from your county: Permitting and inspection requirements vary. Ask for 2–3 references from your specific county.
- Get at least three bids: Solar bids vary by 20–35% on the same scope of work. See how to compare solar bids.
Got bids from New York installers? Compare them properly.
Upload up to four solar proposals from any New York installer. The analyzer compares $/W, production estimates, equipment, and financing structure — and tells you which one to sign.
Analyze My Bids →Frequently asked questions about New York solar
Does solar make sense in New York?
Yes for most homeowners with a $150+ monthly electric bill, an unshaded roof, and 8+ years of expected ownership. New York's specific economics are summarized in the table above.
How much does a typical New York solar install cost in 2026?
$22,000–$28,000 for an 8 kW system before incentives. Effective net cost depends on your state and utility incentives.
Should I get more than three bids?
Yes — three is a minimum. Four or five is better. Solar bids vary by 20–35% on the same scope of work. See how to compare solar bids.
Are there other reputable New York solar installers besides these?
Many. The list above represents installers with strong public profiles in New York; reputable installers exist beyond it. Get bids from a mix and compare them objectively rather than relying on any one list.