New York’s Grid Struggles in Summer, But Solar Doesn’t
Recent news has pointed to glaring issues in New York’s grid over the summer, including a 10,000-customer outage in Southeast Queens in July during a heatwave.
An article by Inside Climate News pointed to a constant threat of blackouts during extreme heat and proposed potential solutions, including distributed energy sources and plug-in solar panels for residents. These outlet-connected solar panels aren’t yet legal, with the Solar Up Now New York (SUNNY) Act still sitting on the Governor’s desk for approval.
While those in NYC face these challenges, Suffolk and Nassau County residents also deal with energy instability, constant rate hikes, and uncertainty around energy spending.
Those in the city can’t easily transition to solar because of red tape and a lack of available space, but Long Island residents have a much easier time switching to solar panels.
Solar is More Accessible on Long Island than Ever Before
Over the last decade, solar panels have become more viable and more accessible for the average family on Long Island.
- The now-ended federal solar tax credit created a surge of demand and helped homeowners install solar with a significant dollar-for-dollar discount.
- New York State still offers its own personal tax credit. It’s worth 25% of a solar installation, up to a maximum of $5,000 per household.
- Solar panel prices decreased in the last 20 years, and while they have stabilized in 2026, efficiency has increased. Households now produce more electricity from each panel.
- Solar financing is widely available, often with interest-free periods and zero-down structures.
More recently, solar leasing has become an option for Long Island households, and Power Solutions, one of the top-rated solar contractors in the region, offers solar panel installations with one of the most flexible leasing structures.
Long Island Residential Solar Installation Through the Participate Energy Program
For homeowners who feel left behind in the solar boom of recent years, the Participate Energy Program creates an alternative pathway with a lower upfront cost.
This prepaid solar lease gives families access to solar savings with a flat fee. The cost is locked in from day one, and the savings are available as soon as the system is connected to the grid.
The program offers more flexibility than traditional solar leases:
- There’s no credit check or minimum FICO score requirement.
- The lease doesn’t place a lien on the home and can be transferred if the home is sold.
- The homeowner has the option to purchase the system after the 6th year anniversary.
- The prepaid lease is discounted thanks to the commercial solar tax credit.
The Federal solar tax credit for individuals was eliminated at the end of 2025, but the commercial tax credit is still available. Because the solar lease is owned by Participate Energy, it qualifies for this credit. Participate Energy claims the credit and applies it as a discount on the lease. This makes the program the most affordable way for a family to get access to solar panels on Long Island.
Talk to Power Solutions if You Want More Energy Independence
Traditional solar leases were often frustrating, with rigid terms, liens placed on the property, and high costs that could change over time. A prepaid solar lease has a set price, so savings are predictable.
Power Solutions is a Long Island solar contractor that connects customers through the Participate Energy Program and installs solar purchased outright or through zero-down financing. A free home solar estimate and consultation with a cost/benefit analysis can help you decide which is best for you
Get your estimate today, or reach out to Power Solutions at (631) 348-0001.
