Solar in New York
What a typical 8 kW rooftop system generates and saves in New York, from NREL sun data and the local power rate. A planning estimate, not a quote.
Based on 1270 kWh per kW per year of sun in New York, a 28.6¢ per kWh rate, and $3.00 per watt installed.
In New York, the payback is reasonable. New York is middling for sun with a high rate, so the price of power keeps the math worthwhile across most of the state.
Want to try a different system size? The full estimator lets you change the kilowatts and switch states. Remember this uses a state average; your roof, your exact rate, net metering, and any incentives will shift the numbers, so get two or three local quotes.
New York solar questions
Is solar worth it in New York?
New York is middling for sun with a high rate, so the price of power keeps the math worthwhile across most of the state. A typical 8 kW system in New York generates about 10,160 kWh a year and saves roughly $2,906, paying back in about 8.3 years against an install cost near $24,000.
How much do solar panels cost in New York?
At about $3.00 per watt installed (2.50 to 3.50 is the typical US range), a 8 kW system runs around $24,000 before the 30 percent federal tax credit or any state and utility programs.
How much sun does New York get for solar?
NREL PVWatts puts New York's photovoltaic output near 1270 kWh per kW of panels per year (New York City). That is the figure behind the generation estimate; your roof's tilt and shading move it up or down.
Sources
Sun from NREL PVWatts, rate from the US Energy Information Administration, cost from 2026 US cost benchmarks. Last reviewed 2026-06-30. This is a planning estimate, not a quote. It uses a state-level representative figure for sun and electricity price; your roof, shading, tilt, exact utility rate, net-metering rules, financing, and incentives will change the result. The payback shown is before incentives; the 30 percent federal solar tax credit and any state or utility programs shorten it. Run PVWatts for your address and get two or three local quotes before deciding. Figures last reviewed on the verified date.
Other states: Hawaii, California, Maryland, Rhode Island. Or see the full estimator.