Federal Solar Incentive: Covers 30% of your total system cost through the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC).
NYSERDA’s NY-Sun Program: Provides upfront rebates and financing options to reduce installation costs.
State Tax Incentive: Offers a tax credit of up to $5,000, directly lowering your state tax liability.
Electricity costs in Erie County continue to climb, leaving many homeowners looking for a long-term solution to rising utility rates. Instead of depending on National Grid or NYSEG, more households are switching to solar power to lock in predictable energy costs and take advantage of New York’s solar incentives.
For homeowners in Buffalo, Cheektowaga, Tonawanda, Hamburg, and beyond, installing solar panels offers a cost-effective way to cut expenses, increase property value, and protect against future rate hikes.
Since 2015, Empire Solar has helped Erie County homeowners take control of rising energy costs with full solar ownership from day one. As a NYSERDA Gold Status Certified Installer, we handle everything – custom system design, permitting, roofing, tree removal, and electrical upgrades. With our industry-leading warranty, you get long-term savings and energy independence without the hassle of leases.
Most residents in Erie County receive power from National Grid or NYSEG. However, fluctuating rates, delivery fees, and peak-time charges have left homeowners with higher-than-average monthly energy bills.
Solar power offers a way to break free from these increasing costs, allowing homeowners to own their energy instead of renting it from a utility company.
Electricity rates vs. national average
Projected electricity costs over 10 years without solar
Average total incentive per household
Yes, even with Erie’s snowy winters and cloudy days, solar performs well here. Cold temperatures actually help panels run more efficiently, and New York’s net metering means you can bank extra credits from sunnier months to use year-round.
Start by requesting consultations from a few NYSERDA-approved solar companies. A good solar provider should explain your savings potential, system size, roof fit, available incentives, what you’ll actually own, and flag any extra work you might need, like roofing, tree removal, or electrical upgrades. Ask questions and compare your options to see what’s the best fit for your home.
We’re a NYSERDA Gold Status installer, recognized for top-tier workmanship and customer satisfaction. We’ve installed solar for thousands of NY homeowners and back every system with a 25-year warranty. With Empire Solar, you own (no leases, no power purchase agreements) your solar system outright from Day 1.
