We chose Momentum Solar as the top solar company in New York for its comprehensive in-house services, covering everything from system design to installation. We also like Venture Solar for its sleek installation designs and its addition of critter guards on solar panels for pest control. We researched dozens of top professional solar companies in New York to find the best options.
New York’s state incentives and ample sunlight make it an ideal location for solar energy, allowing homeowners to maximize savings. Our guide covers the top providers in the state, available incentives, and tips for choosing the best provider.
Compare Solar Companies Across New York
| Company | Star Rating | BBB Rating | Warranties |
|---|---|---|---|
A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship | ||
A+ | 25 years | ||
A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship | ||
A+ |
Note: BBB ratings accurate as of March 2025.
New York’s Top Solar Energy Companies
- Momentum Solar: Best Solar Panel Installation
- Venture Solar: Best Northeast Regional Installer
Our Top Solar Company Picks for New York
Momentum Solar
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Includes a 25-year warranty on parts and labor
- Offers Tier-1 solar panel for better efficiency
- Partners with Enphase to offer solar battery options
Cons
- Customer reviews mention difficulties scheduling installations
- Has limited pricing information online
Momentum Solar Details
Momentum Solar handles every step of the solar installation process in-house, from pricing and financing to system design and installation. The company also partners with various high-quality solar panel manufacturers to create custom solar systems.
Momentum has an interactive mobile tracking app that provides routine updates about the installation process and lets you set spending goals. The company frequently updates its blog with educational information.
Venture Solar
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Adds a critter guard for extra protection against pests
- Creates clean-looking solar panel systems with its Venture Roof Jacks
- Includes a 25-year product warranty
Cons
- Doesn’t include a workmanship warranty
- Doesn’t provide pricing information online
Venture Solar Details
Venture Solar’s in-house team helps with every step of the solar installation process, from a free consultation to design and permitting. Installations are typically completed in one day.
After your system has been inspected and activated, you can track your system’s performance and savings through Venture Solar’s in-home monitoring system. The company also installs critter guards on its solar panels for pest control.
Solar Incentives in New York
New York offers plenty of solar incentives for homeowners transitioning to clean energy. We’ve listed some of the most popular New York solar incentives below.
- Federal solar tax credit: New York homeowners can benefit from the federal solar tax credit, which covers up to 30% of solar panel costs. This credit applies to systems installed between 2022 and 2032, after which it will decrease to 26% in 2033. If the credit exceeds your tax liability, any unused portion can be rolled over to the following year.
- The NY-Sun Initiative: The NY-Sun Initiative offers increased rebates for households earning less than 80% of the median income in their area. To qualify, homeowners must complete minor, low-cost energy efficiency upgrades.
- The Megawatt Block Incentive Structure: This incentive, part of the NY-Sun Initiative, offers a rebate of $0.20 per watt (W) of solar installed. Eligible areas include Upstate New York, Con Edison service area, and Long Island.
- New York State Solar Equipment Tax Credit: New York residents can receive a state tax credit equal to 25% of their solar system’s installation costs, up to a maximum of $5,000. This credit is available for both purchased systems and those financed through leases or power purchase agreements (PPAs) lasting at least 10 years.
- Sales Tax Exemption: Solar equipment purchased in New York is exempt from state sales and use tax, resulting in immediate savings of approximately 4% on system costs.
- Solar Electric Generating System Tax Abatement (SEGS): SEGS provides a property tax exemption on the added home value from solar panels and storage systems. This four-year tax reduction offers 5% of eligible expenditures each year, with a maximum reduction of $62,500 annually or the building’s annual tax liability, whichever is less.
What Should You Look For in a New York Solar Company?
Choosing the right solar company in New York involves evaluating key factors to find quality equipment, strong warranties, and the best financial incentives for your investment. Consider the following factors as you shop for a solar provider.
Customer Reviews and Reputation
Check online reviews and ratings to evaluate how a company handles customer service, installation quality, and ongoing support. Check for customer feedback and ratings on third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot.
Experience and Local Expertise
Choose a company with experience navigating state and utility regulations to maximize available savings. A provider familiar with New York’s climate and permitting requirements can tailor a system that operates efficiently year-round, ensuring long-term performance and energy savings.
Financing
Most providers offer two or more solar financing options, such as upfront payments, loans, leases, or power purchase agreements (PPAs). Solar loans allow system ownership with monthly payments, maximizing savings and tax credits, while leases and PPAs offer lower upfront costs but reduce financial benefits. Upfront payments provide full ownership from the start but require a higher initial investment. The solar payback period, which is the time it takes to recoup the cost of the system through energy savings, varies depending on system size and available incentives.
High-Quality Equipment
Look for companies that offer high-efficiency solar panels, inverters, and battery storage options from reputable manufacturers. High-quality equipment provides better energy production, durability, and long-term savings. Some New York solar companies also offer aesthetic panel options, such as all-black panels for a sleeker look.
Warranties and Maintenance Services
A strong warranty provides long-term protection for your investment. Look for a company that offers at least a 25-year manufacturer warranty on panels, which is the typical solar panel lifespan. Also, look for a 10-year or longer workmanship warranty to cover installation issues and a power or performance guarantee to back the system’s performance. Some providers also include solar panel maintenance services, which can be valuable for maintaining long-term system performance.
Our Conclusion
Momentum Solar stands out as the best solar company for New York homeowners, offering comprehensive in-house services, including financing, system design, and installation. The company partners with top solar panel manufacturers and Enphase for battery options. Its interactive mobile app and educational blog further enhance the customer experience.
We recommend requesting quotes from at least three providers to compare solar panel costs and offerings.
Other New York Home Service Resources
FAQs About Solar Companies in New York
Are solar panels worth it in upstate NY?
Yes, solar panels are worth it in upstate New York. The New York countryside receives more than 2,500 hours of sunlight annually, and the state has plenty of tax incentives.
How long do solar panels last?
Solar panels last approximately 25–30 years, depending on how well you maintain your system.
What is the best way to pay for solar panels?
The best way to pay for solar panels is through an up-front lump-sum payment to avoid interest and maximize incentives. The next option is a solar loan, which grants ownership and tax benefits. Solar leases and PPAs offer lower upfront costs but don’t qualify for tax incentives and generally don’t provide long-term savings.
How many solar panels do I need?
The number of solar panels you need depends on your monthly energy consumption. Most homeowners purchase around 20 panels. Review your utility bills from the past year to estimate how much power your panels should generate.
Our Rating Methodology
We are committed to providing comprehensive and unbiased reviews to our readers. After over a thousand hours of research on solar companies, interviews with experts, and common customer needs, we’ve created a detailed rating system for solar providers based on six factors:
- Solar equipment, installation, and services (25%)
- Warranty and performance guarantees (25%)
- Brand reputation and certifications (15%)
- Financing options (15%)
- Experience (10%)
- Availability (10%)
Total scores are divided by 20 for a final 5-point rating scale.
