How Does Solar Net Metering Work in New York?
April 23, 2025
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.
New York has some of the highest electricity rates in the nation, leaving residents with soaring energy bills. With Con Edison as the primary electricity provider, homeowners and businesses experience frequent rate increases and high delivery fees, making energy costs unpredictable.
Switching to solar is a practical and cost-effective solution, offering long-term savings, energy independence, and protection against future utility hikes. With federal and state incentives covering up to 80% of installation costs, going solar in New York County has never been more affordable.
Empire Solar is one of the few NYSERDA Gold Status Certified Installers in New York, meeting the highest standards of quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. We’ve helped thousands of homeowners throughout the state transition to solar, ensuring a seamless and stress-free installation process.
Most residents in Manhattan receive their electricity from Con Edison, which has some of the highest utility rates in the country. With delivery fees, demand charges, and unpredictable rate hikes, many homeowners and businesses struggle with ever-increasing costs.
Solar energy allows you to:
Electricity rates vs. national average
Projected electricity costs over 10 years without solar
Average total incentive per household
Going solar in New York City can significantly reduce your electric bill, especially with Con Edison’s high rates. Homeowners can take advantage of multiple incentives, including the 30% federal tax credit, a New York State tax credit, NYSERDA rebates, and the NYC Property Tax Abatement. With net metering, you also earn credits for extra energy your system produces, which can offset your usage in less sunny months. In addition to long-term savings, solar can increase your property’s value. It also gives you more control over your energy future, helping you rely less on utility rate hikes and move toward a more independent, sustainable lifestyle.
It’s important to ask whether your roof is eligible, what local and state incentives you qualify for, how net metering works in NYC, and what the installation process involves. We’ve put together a full list of the must-ask questions to help you get started with confidence.
Choose a NYSERDA-approved solar company installer who understands NYC building codes, permitting, and Department of Buildings requirements. The right company will guide you through everything from the initial site assessment to submitting paperwork and securing the necessary approvals.