91% of U.S. Energy Growth is in Solar: Is it Time for Solar Panels on Long Island?

Solar panels and battery energy storage systems are dominating new capacity on America’s grid. In the first quarter of 2026, solar and battery systems represented 91% of total growth. This is despite demand for solar falling 15% from last year. The industry is still healthy, even if it isn’t growing at the same rate.

Solar’s dominance has been driven by several factors, including:

• Strong tax incentives for commercial and grid-scale solar installations.
• High utility rates and continued demand for residential solar installations.
• Increased deployment of grid-scale battery systems.

Tim Pawlenty, the former governor of Minnesota and now CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association, is optimistic about the future of solar. Despite a lack of support in Congress and the Executive Office, he said recently that solar will “be increasingly attractive to the administration once they get a fuller appreciation of it.” As the leader of the SEIA, Pawlenty is the number one lobbyist for solar-friendly policies.

What’s Happening with Residential Solar?

The nationwide demand for residential solar could decrease by as much as 46% by 2030. This can be attributed to the end of federal tax credits and the saturation of solar-friendly markets. Although the number seems bleak, the residential solar industry is actually incredibly healthy, especially in regions like Long Island.

If you are considering a residential solar installation in Suffolk or Nassau County, there are now more options, solar panels are more efficient than ever, and there is a growing number of American-made products from brands like Qcells.

Long Island is also a unique market thanks to generous state-level tax credits. New York offers the Solar Energy System Equipment Credit, which is equal to 25% of the total solar installation, up to a maximum of $5,000. Utility incentives are also available in some cases, including special programs for families with solar battery systems, which offer special credits for sharing energy with the grid during peak times.

There’s No Risk in Finding Out What Solar Can Do For You

Lawmakers can take years to debate the benefits of solar and create new policies. In your home, you can make life-changing decisions much faster. With solar, you can enjoy a reduced utility bill and whole-home backup if you choose to install a solar battery.

There’s no risk in learning more about solar for your home. Power Solutions offers free estimates and energy savings evaluations. We will provide a detailed cost/benefit analysis so you can see the value of solar over time, with a projected payback period. Most solar panel installations on Long Island will pay for themselves within the first ten years.

Start today by getting your ballpark solar estimate online, or talk to a solar professional at (631) 348-0001.