Is There a Downside to Installing Solar Panels on Long Island?

No, there are no significant downsides to installing solar panels on Long Island, provided you choose an experienced local solar installer. You may have concerns about roof integrity, cost, and even aesthetics. These worries are eliminated through custom engineering and accurate system sizing. A solar array can enhance your home while providing long-term savings for decades to come.

How Power Solutions Makes Solar a Worthwhile Investment

The only true “downside” of installing solar panels occurs when a system is poorly designed and integrated. Avoid the stress and insist on a trusted service with Power Solutions, one of the best-rated solar installers on Long Island.

Our in-depth consultation and planning process eliminates potential issues through:

• A detailed cost/benefit analysis to evaluate the real financial and practical advantages of switching to solar. This is unique to your home and based on your needs and historical energy consumption/billing.
• Drone surveys to evaluate roof measurements, angle, and sunlight exposure.
• Shade analysis to check surrounding structures that could impact solar potential at different times of day.
• Accurate system sizing to ensure the solar array is scaled to your family’s energy needs. We carefully balance initial cost with long-term savings.

How Much Does it Cost for a Long Island Solar Installation?

The national average cost for a residential solar installation in 2025 was between $2.50 and $3.50 per watt. A standard 10kW system averages $25,000 to $35,000 before incentives. Some systems cost more for large homes and high energy demands, while some families can get incredible value from smaller and more affordable systems.

On Long Island, the real cost of switching to solar is lower, thanks to:

• A New York State Tax Credit, equal to 25% of the total system cost (capped at $5,000).
• PSEG LI Rebates under the NY Sun program.
• Potential direct contractor rebates that come off the top of your bill.

Incentives vary depending on the type of solar system and your financial situation. We will cover all potential incentives before you commit to the installation. We are transparent with all costs.

Solar panels can pay for themselves by reducing your electric utility bill. On Long Island, the average installation has a payback period of 8 to 10 years, while solar panels will continue to produce savings for 25 to 30 years.

While solar equipment costs are mostly stable, the cost of electricity on Long Island is ever-increasing. The average electric bill has increased by 33% in the last ten years. The longer you wait to switch to solar, the more you expose yourself to high electricity costs.

Will Solar Panels Damage My Roof?

No, solar panels will not damage your roof when installed by experienced professionals. Power Solutions uses low-penetration racking and flashing to help protect your home from leaks and shingle damage.

• Watertight Sealing: We use professional-grade flashing and sealants to ensure a lasting seal.
• Structural Integrity: Our detailed inspections ensure that the roof deck is strong enough to support solar panels before work begins.
• Airflow: Panels are offset from the roofing surface to ensure adequate airflow, keeping panels and your attic cooler.
• Pest Protection: We can install specialist critter-guards to prevent pests and birds from nesting underneath solar panels. These guards also protect against organic debris like leaves and twigs.

Do I Need Permits for Solar Panels in Suffolk or Nassau County?

Yes, every solar installation on Long Island requires local building and electrical permits. Every town, from Hempstead to East Hampton, has specific building codes. This can make the permitting process cumbersome for inexperienced contractors.

Power Solutions has extensive experience throughout Long Island and will handle the entire permitting process for you. Our solar plans are designed for first-time approval, eliminating one of the most common delays when installing solar panels.

We coordinate with PSEG LI for the final Permission to Operate (PTO).

Ready to See What Solar Would Look Like for Your Home?

Power Solutions offers free, no-obligation energy savings evaluations and cost estimates. Initial estimates are based on satellite data. Get solar done right by calling us at (631) 348-0001 or get your ballpark solar installation estimate online.