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New York State is famous for a lot of things: our diverse geography, delicious pizza, and being home to the cultural epicenter of the world. However, New York really should be famous for our investment in solar energy. Homeowners across Long Island and New York have all benefited from NYS’s generous rebates and policies that allow them to reduce their carbon footprint and save money.
It’s no different in New York City. There are more restrictions and limitations on solar in NYC, but that hasn’t stopped the five boroughs from continuing to take advantage of solar to reduce their electricity bills year-round.
The Ideal Home for Solar in New York City
If you’re a homeowner in NYC, there are a few factors solar designers will consider before you go solar. For example, you should have a non-tile pitched roof between 20 to 40 degrees. The best roofing materials for solar panels are asphalt shingles, rolled asphalt, and metal seam roofs. The ideal roof will also have minimal obstructions, like skylights or chimneys, blocking the sunlight, and be mostly free of shading from surrounding buildings.
Restrictions on Solar in NYC
While note impossible for many homes, solar panel installation in NYC can be more difficult than on Long Island. A new fire code was enacted in April of 2022 that establishes new safety guidelines and railing requirements for flat roofs across the city. These regulations prevent many solar panel installation companies from installing on flat roofs.
Restrictions on Home Battery Backup in NYC
The advantages of home battery backup systems are undeniable, but are not yet possible in NYC. Similar to their regulations surrounding solar panel installations, the FDNY has strict policies in place regarding battery installations within residential buildings. Solar and battery advocates, like the New York Solar Energy Industries Association, are pushing to revise policies relating to permitting and zoning.
While safety is a valid concern, especially in densely populated areas like NYC, battery technologies like the Tesla Powerwall, have been vigorously tested and are generally very safe when installed, operated, and maintained properly.
Though home battery backup installation in NYC is still on the horizon, the first step is installing solar. A properly installed solar system can easily be retrofitted to accommodate one or multiple batteries once these policies change.
New York City Home Solar Incentives
It’s no secret that living in the city gets expensive, and going solar can help reduce electricity bills year-round. Through net metering, many solar owners are able to lower their monthly electric bill to only around $20 a month, which is the required grid connection fee.
New York City solar owners can also take advantage of different incentives. In addition to the 30% federal tax rebate and $5,000 incentive from New York State, homeowners have access to an exclusive Solar Electric Generating Systems Tax Abatement (SEGS) program through the city. This program provides NYC residents who add solar systems to their homes a four-year property tax abatement, up to $62,500 for four years.
EmPower Solar offers three main ways to pay for your system; leasing, financing, or purchasing outright. No matter which option you choose, for $0 down, you can see savings from day one. Over the course of your system’s 25 year lifetime, you can expect to save close to $100,000.
Community Solar in NYC
Even if your home is not compatible with solar, you can still reap the benefits of clean, renewable energy while lowering your electric bills by joining a community solar program.
A community solar project consists of a large-scale solar array that is connected to subscribers. Subscribers are members of the public who use the energy produced by the project to offset a portion of the energy they use from the electrical grid. Community solar is perfect for those who are unable to have their own home solar panels due to:
- Lack of homeownership/renting
- No roof space or shaded roof space
- Older roof or incompatible roofing material
- Condo/co-op board rules
- Municipal zoning codes prohibitive of solar
When you enroll in a community solar program you can expect to save roughly 10% on your electric bill each month. Enrolling in a program is free and you can learn more here.
Discover if Solar is Right For You
EmPower Solar is dedicated to providing custom solar solutions to New York City residents. In addition to our commitment to high-quality solar panel installation services, we recognize the importance of addressing individual needs and preferences. Our expert team of installation contractors is equipped with the knowledge and skills to assess your property and provide personalized recommendations. By partnering with us, homeowners can not only harness the power of solar energy but also reduce their electric bills and benefit from the incentives offered by New York State and the federal government.
Wondering if your house is right for solar? Schedule a free consultation today.
Get an estimate for solar and claim your energy independence.
Get an estimate for solar and claim your energy independence.
About the Author
EmPower Solar develops, engineers, installs, and services solar and battery systems for residential and commercial clients. Since 2003, EmPower Solar has empowered thousands of New York homeowners and businesses with 47 megawatts of distributed solar. Its vision is to create a new energy paradigm powered by clean, renewable energy for a more prosperous, healthy, and civil world. The company culture is defined by the EmPowering Way, which results in consistent 5-star customer service reviews. For more information visit empower-solar.com.