New York State in Top Ten for National Solar Installation Capacity

PV Magazine, one of the largest solar panel news distributors, has released its 2026 Solar and Storage Market Report, featuring the latest data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. According to the numbers, New York ranks 8^th out of all states for cumulative solar capacity. It is the highest-ranking state in the Northeast, beating New Jersey by more than 1,000MW of installed capacity.

This is great news for New York’s energy security, and it reflects a trend that we’ve seen in Long Island solar, with thousands of households switching to renewables. Homes with solar panels pay less for electricity and enjoy energy independence with protection from rate hikes.

What Has Driven New York’s Solar Growth?

New York has emerged as a leader in solar energy due to strong state backing. Our traditionally high energy prices have also contributed to the demand for an affordable alternative.

• NYSERDA has directly supported solar growth with incentive structures like the NY-Sun Program, offering direct rebates that reduce the upfront cost of installing commercial and residential solar.
• New York State offers one of the best solar tax credits. The Solar Energy System Equipment Credit is worth 25% of the total cost of a solar installation, up to a total value of $5,000.
• The State makes the tax credit more flexible for homeowners by including a carryover period. If the tax credit exceeds tax liability, it can be carried forward for up to 5 years until it is consumed.

There are more than 85,000 homes with residential solar panels on Long Island. This is a direct result of solar’s affordability and state-backed incentive programs.

Why Do Long Island Families Switch to Solar

Families on Long Island have switched to solar for significant savings that reduce their PSEG bills.

• Solar panels generate electricity during the day to reduce the amount of electricity taken from the grid. This directly reduces the monthly electric bill.
• Residential solar panels on Long Island often produce more energy than a home needs. The excess is sent to the grid and tracked by PSEG with a special two-way meter.
• Homeowners generate credits (through Net Metering) to offset electricity consumption in the evenings and on days with low solar production.

This simple system means that solar panels offer direct financial benefits even when the sun isn’t shining.

Should You Install Solar on Your Long Island Rooftop?

If you are tired of rate hikes and the high cost of electricity on Long Island, you should consider installing solar panels. Renewable energy isn’t just for utility-scale projects in New York. It’s often the best choice for the average family.

Power Solutions is one of the most experienced solar contractors on Long Island. We offer no-pressure consultations to evaluate the benefits of solar for your home.

• Contact us today for a free ballpark solar estimate.
• We will conduct a detailed energy savings assessment and provide a cost/benefit analysis.
• We install custom solar solutions based on your unique energy needs, preferences, and budget.

With recent energy cost hikes and uncertainty in the oil market, now is a better time than ever to switch to solar and claim your energy independence. You can contact Power Solutions at (631) 348-0001. We serve all areas of Suffolk and Nassau Counties.