Solar Power is Still a Major Driver of America’s Energy Growth
Solar energy was a growth leader in America’s energy industry in the first five months of 2026. According to the latest data from the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), utility-scale solar production is up by 21.6% year over year, while smaller systems, like those used for Long Island solar installations, are up by 12.8%.
The latest renewable energy data from the SEIA highlights a continued trend of production moving toward renewable sources. Nuclear power grew just 1.3% in the same period, while natural gas plants produced just 2.5% more than last year. Coal trended into the negatives, with electricity production down -10.9%. Solar hit a milestone when it overtook coal in total energy production earlier this year.
Solar is Still the Biggest Driver of New Capacity
Solar continues to drive new capacity, thanks to large utility projects and homeowner investment.
- Solar offers predictable generation with reduced maintenance compared to traditional sources.
- Solar is suitable for integration with battery energy storage systems, allowing energy to be captured during the day and deployed in the evenings.
- Tax credits and other incentives have traditionally benefited solar energy. However, even with the loss of some residential incentives, solar continues to be popular for homeowners due to its low cost compared to electricity from utility operators.
Homeowners Have More Options Than Ever to Install Solar Panels
Despite the elimination of federal credits at the end of 2025, homeowners still have more options than ever to save money when installing solar panels.
On Long Island, part of America’s 8th largest solar market, families can purchase systems outright or join discounted lease programs to enjoy solar savings.
- New York State offers a solar tax credit worth 25% of the total installation bill, up to a limit of $5,000. This is a significant discount, and particularly helpful for homeowners who want to install solar panels and own the equipment outright.
- Solar contractors offer competitive financing options. Power Solutions, one of the top-rated solar installers on Long Island, can install solar panels with $0-down financing and an interest-free period based on the state tax credit.
- Residential solar leasing has evolved to provide homeowners better value and more flexibility. Power Solutions also installs solar through the Participate Energy Program, empowering homeowners to start saving right away while enjoying a ~30% discount on a prepaid lease.
News of solar capacity growth is encouraging, but it’s not the bottom line for the average homeowner. If you are considering a solar installation for your home on Long Island, you need to know how much it would cost and how much you will save. Power Solutions offers detailed consultations and energy savings assessments for free. You can get a cost/benefit analysis based on your energy consumption patterns and the production output of a new solar panel array.
Installing residential solar could be the best investment you make in your home. See what it can do for you. Get a free ballpark estimate online, or talk to the team at Power Solutions by calling (631) 348-0001 now.
