New Jersey Expands Community Solar, But You Have Better Options on Long Island
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has approved 3 gigawatts of state-run community solar expansion. The Garden State is transforming its energy sector with its Competitive Solar Incentive Program. This program seeks private partnerships for state-run projects, and it has already succeeded in attracting new infrastructure investment.
Community solar and battery energy storage systems can help to improve grid reliability and reduce costs for homeowners. However, if you’re on Long Island, you can actually get more value and real energy independence by owning your system outright.
With a lot of recent developments surrounding grid-scale and community solar projects, home solar is still the best choice for families in Suffolk and Nassau Counties.
Community Solar vs. Private Solar Panel Installations on Long Island
Community solar projects on Long Island are limited, but even if you become eligible to join one, you might find that it doesn’t offer the value that will give you real energy independence.
As neighboring New Jersey pushes ahead with community solar projects, it’s the perfect time to compare the pros and cons of community and private solar.
| Feature | Community Solar | Private Solar Installation |
| Ownership | Owned by a developer or utility company. | Owned by the homeowner. |
| Tax Incentives | Tax incentives go to the developer. | Tax incentives go to the homeowner. |
| Savings | Limited savings as operators recover costs and generate an operating profit. | Maximum possible savings as any energy produced benefits the homeowner. |
| Installation Cost | No installation cost for the homeowner. No solar panels on the rooftop. | Higher upfront cost for the homeowner. Systems can be financed. |
| Maintenance | Operator is responsible for maintenance. | Homeowner is responsible for maintenance. |
| Contract Period | Potential lock-in contracts and early termination penalties. | No contract outside of financing agreements. |
| Best For | Best for renters. | Best for homeowners. Solar panels last 25+ years. |
| Availability | Only available in areas with a community solar project. | Available for virtually any home on Long Island. |
If you own your home on Long Island, a solar panel installation is the best option for predictable, long-term savings.
Can You Get a Tax Credit for Solar Installation in Suffolk or Nassau County?
If you choose to install solar panels at your home on Long Island, you will be eligible for a New York State income tax credit. This is currently set at 25% of the cost of the system, up to $5,000. It can be carried over for five years, so you can continue to claim this dollar-for-dollar credit until it is consumed (perfect if your state tax liability is significantly less than the total credit value).
Learn About Solar Savings with a Free Home Solar Estimate
A detailed consultation is crucial to getting the most out of solar. Power Solutions provides the information. You make the choice.
- You can request a free ballpark solar estimate today, based on satellite data.
- If you like the early numbers, we will continue with a site evaluation and cost/benefit analysis.
- Our team will look at your energy needs, historic billing, market rates, and predict your savings over time.
- Solar panels can pay for themselves. Most homes will generate savings equal to the cost of installation within the first 8 – 10 years.
- Solar protects you from rising rates and inflation. If PSEG hikes its rates, your solar panels provide even better returns.
Talk to Power Solutions at (631) 348-0001 and see how much you could save with solar.
