6 Best Solar Companies in New York (2022 Rankings & Reviews)
We recommend vetted solar companies that have:
- Availability in your area
- Affordable pricing and financing options
- At least 5 years of experience
- Outstanding customer reviews
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Best Solar Companies in New York
When you think of New York, it’s doubtful you’d picture solar panels lining the tops of urban buildings, but the Empire State is actually a top state for solar energy in the U.S. If you’re thinking about going solar, the best first step to make is to find the best solar companies in New York and compare quotes.
It may surprise you to learn that the state of New York actually has more solar companies than Texas, the number two state for solar. Progressive leadership has laid the foundation for a market very encouraging of solar’s growth, and a large number of the most trusted installers are looking to capitalize on it.
Nationwide Service
Average cost
SunPower
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Most efficient panels on the market -
National coverage
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Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
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Great warranty coverage
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Expensive
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Customer service varies by local dealer
Most efficient panels on the market 
Expensive Services Offered
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Solar Panels
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Solar Batteries
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EV Chargers
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System Monitoring
Solar Panels
Nationwide Service
Average cost
Tesla Energy
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Price-match guarantee
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Sleek, efficient and durable solar panels
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Best solar battery on the market
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Some reported issues with customer service
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Customer service varies by local dealer
Services Offered
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Solar Panels
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Solar Batteries
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EV Chargers
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Solar Roof Shingles
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System Monitoring
Regional Service
Average cost
Trinity Solar
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Many financing options
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Family-owned and -operated
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Makes charitable contributions
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Limited service area
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Relatively short workmanship warranty
Services Offered
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Solar Panels
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Solar Batteries
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Energy-Efficiency Upgrades
Local Service
Average cost
SUNation Solar Systems
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Offers products from leading manufacturers
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Representatives are experts on local policies
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Outstanding customer service
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Limited service area
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No leases or PPAs
Services Offered
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Solar Panels
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Solar Batteries
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EV Chargers
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Maintenance & Repairs
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Electrical Work
Local Service
Average cost
EmPower Solar
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Offers products from leading manufacturers
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Slightly limited service offerings
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Excellent reputation
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Limited information available on website
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No leases or PPAs
Services Offered
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Solar Panels
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Solar Panels
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EV Chargers
Local Service
Average cost
Kasselman Solar
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Offers products from leading manufacturers
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Great warranty coverage
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Representatives are experts on local policies
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Expensive
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No leases or PPAs
Services Offered
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Solar Panels
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Solar Batteries
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Electrical Work
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Generators
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EV Chargers
Our Picks for Top New York Solar Installers
- SunPower
- SuNation Solar System
- Trinity Solar
- EmPower Solar
- Tesla
- Kasselman Solar
Comparing the 5 Best Solar Companies in New York
SunPower
Service Area: State of New York
What We Like: SunPower has been a leading top solar company since 1985, manufacturing, selling and installing its own modules, which routinely rank as the industry’s most efficient solar panels. SunPower provides national coverage, some of the highest-quality all-in-one solar systems and the best warranty in the business.
What We Don’t Like: SunPower is able to service the entire nation through partnerships with local certified dealers throughout the nation. SunPower still maintains a standard of excellence, but your experience can be dependent on which dealer you live nearest.
What Customers Are Saying: “After doing my research and getting bids from four different companies, SunPower won hands down for us in meeting our overall needs. [Our consultant] was a real pleasure to work with… I’d recommend SunPower as the solar company of choice to anyone.” — KG via Better Business Bureau (BBB)
SunPower at a Glance:
- Year Founded: 1985
- Services Provided: Solar panels, backup batteries, electric vehicle chargers
- Warranty: All-in-one 25-year warranty
- Financing Options: Cash purchase, solar loan, solar lease/PPA
- Learn More: SunPower Review
SUNation Solar Systems
Service Area: Suffolk County, Nassau County, Queens, Brooklyn and Staten Island
What We Like: SUNation Solar systems is a local leader trusted by over 7,000 homeowners in New York and has been voted the “Best Solar Business of Long Island” for 12 years running. Certified to install products from Tesla, Panasonic, LG and Solaria, SUNation delivers high-quality solar solutions with a local approach.
What We Don’t Like: Though SUNation’s local approach is what allows for such a personalized and smooth experience, its service area is smaller than some of its competitors.
What Customers Are Saying: “Very positive experience working with SUNation. From the sales process to the various logistical efforts (local permissions, array layout, frequent communication, installation), it was really a first-class effort. Really excited to be joining the 21st century thanks to SUNation!” — Daniel via BBB
SUNation at a Glance:
- Year Founded: 2003
- Services Provided: Solar panels, community solar, EV chargers, electrical upgrades, maintenance and backup batteries
- Warranty: 25-year workmanship warranty
- Financing Options: Cash purchase, solar loan
Trinity Solar
Service Area: State of New York
What We Like: Trinity Solar has been a veteran of the solar industry in the Northeast since 1996. As a family-owned operation, it builds its business upon the core values of integrity, reliability and impact. It offers high-quality panels along with multiple batteries and financing options.
What We Don’t Like: Some customers have reported long wait times and lack of post-installation support from the regional provider.
What Customers Are Saying: “I was on the fence with getting solar put on the house. Had a bad experience with a previous solar company prior to Trinity Solar. Trinity explained every aspect of the process so I could see what I was getting. My rep has years of experience in the solar industry and it shows. She goes above and beyond to give you all the information you need through her knowledge.” — Matt via Google Reviews
Trinity at a Glance:
- Year Founded: 1994
- Services Provided: Solar panels, solar batteries and energy efficiency upgrades
- Warranty: 25-year manufacturer. 5-year workmanship warranty
- Financing Options: Cash purchase, solar loan, solar lease/PPA
EmPower Solar
Service Area: Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Bronx and Staten Island
What We Like: With a vision of creating a new energy paradigm powered by clean, renewable power, EmPower Solar strives to provide its customers with the latest solar technology and the highest quality workmanship. EmPower Solar works in both residential and commercial solar markets installing eco-friendly energy solutions throughout greater NYC. EmPower is a certified dealer of SunPower solar panels, which are some of the best solar panels in the business.
What We Don’t Like: We’d like to see EmPower Solar emphasize energy efficiency and electrical system upgrades in their services to accompany solar and storage. It was also difficult to find information on EmPower’s solar financing options.
What Customers Are Saying: “EmPower installed our solar system in May 2018. After the site inspection and design were all completed and the contract signed, the installation was completed in one day. It has performed flawlessly since that time and delivered 107% of our energy usage! We couldn’t be more pleased.” — Michael via Google Reviews
EmPower Solar at a Glance:
- Year Founded: 2003
- Services Provided: Solar panels, community solar, EV chargers and backup batteries
- Warranty: SunPower 25-year warranty
- Financing Options: Cash purchase, solar loan
Tesla
Service Area: State of New York; solar facility in Buffalo
What We Like: Known primarily for its electric cars, Tesla is also one of the top national solar companies. Tesla provides premium, designer solar technology meant to fit in seamlessly with a house’s roof. Though not a solar installer like the other names on this list, Tesla will match you with a solar technician near you that is certified to install its products.
What We Don’t Like: Tesla is much better known for its technology than its customer service, and it shows in a few negative reviews.
What Customers Are Saying: “From beginning to end, the process went perfectly. I liked that all the documents could be signed online. No back-and-forth paperwork. They showed up on time on the day of installation. They installed the whole system in one day. My solar has been running now for 4 months without any issues.” — Victoria via BBB
Tesla Solar at a Glance:
- Year Founded: 2003
- Services Provided: Solar panels, EV chargers and Tesla Powerwall batteries
- Warranty: 10-year comprehensive warranty
- Financing Options: Cash purchase, solar loan
- Learn More: Tesla Solar Guide
Kasselman Solar
Service Area: State of New York; Based in Menands
What We Like: Kasselman Solar specializes in powerful, affordable and aesthetically attractive solar panel installations. Installing LG and LONGi solar panels, Kasselman provides both quality and performance with a generous warranty and solar panels reaching a power of 445 watts.
What We Don’t Like: While Kasselman Solar installs some of the leading panels and batteries on the market, we’d like to see a wider range of brands offered.
What Customers Are Saying: “Kasselman Solar is a top-notch organization and a leader in its respective markets. Its ability to navigate challenges with ease and deliver on commitments is unrivaled. For homeowners out there considering Kasselman as a solar provider, this is exactly the type of installer that you want to work with. They are honest and trustworthy, deliver a quality product, and provide a top-notch customer experience.” — Victoria via BBB
Kasselman Solar at a Glance:
- Year Founded: 1948 (as Kasselman Electric)
- Services Provided: Solar panels, backup batteries, electrical upgrades, generator installations and EV chargers
- Warranty: 25-year full warranty
- Financing Options: Cash purchase, solar loan
How We Chose the Best Solar Companies in New York
We researched the product portfolios, solar services, financing options, customer feedback and industry reputations of every major New York solar installer. Using this methodology, we rated and ranked each company to narrow down and rank our picks for the top solar companies in New York.
Choosing the Best Solar Installer for Your Home
Everyone’s needs are different when it comes to solar, so what may be the best solar company for your neighbor might not be right for you. Give these factors some thought and place more emphasis on what will meet your home’s needs when choosing the best company for your installation:
Services Offered
To start, due to the unique range of needs of home and business owners in New York, a variety of solar installers focus on different services. For instance, Brooklyn SolarWorks focuses more exclusively on downtown roofs, which are typically flat and have needs different than a larger home in Long Island. Think about what makes your home or business unique — and find a company that prioritizes those needs. Other things to consider might be whether you need electrical upgrades, EV chargers or backup power.
Installation Process
Before you sign any paperwork, make sure you’re confident in knowing how the installation process will look. How long before the installation day will happen? How many days will it take? What is my utility company’s net metering policy? Permitting and interconnection can vary from city to city, so it’s best to be sure you’re familiar with the process.
Solar Pricing and Financing
Solar energy systems are a great investment — one that takes planning and time to mature. Think about whether you might need special financing options if your budget is tight. Any of the best solar companies in New York should be able to assist you in applying for the federal solar tax credit, but specific financing options and flexibility will vary from provider to provider.
Industry Affiliations
We generally recommend hiring a company that maintains industry credentials, such as membership in the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), a B Corp certification or affiliation with other professional associations. Memberships and certifications are a great indicator of the company’s professionalism, workmanship, reputation and reliability.
Types of Panels
Some types of solar panels are better than others, and each company will offer a slightly different product portfolio. Small homes in more dense cities will likely need high-efficiency solar panels, while homes with more space might opt for a sleek design. It can’t hurt to ask what brands of panels your company has available, and why they might recommend each. Certifications from some of the best solar panel brands like Panasonic, LG or SunPower might also be a good indicator of legitimacy.
Incentives, Rebates and Tax Credits
New York State has a variety of solar incentives that can vary by city, county, and utility. Though effective, these incentives can be complex and finding a solar installer that knows the ins and outs of local policy may provide the best overall value in the long run. It’s best to think locally here. Does the company you’re looking at have plenty of experience in your community? This will be important.
Warranty
Finally, we recommend finding an installer that offers a good warranty. Solar panels are incredibly tough, but things happen. The best warranties will last 25 years and cover the equipment, workmanship, and performance of your installation.
Cost of Solar in New York
As of 2022, our market research and data from top brands show the average cost of solar panels in New York is around $2.95 per watt. This means a 5-kW system would cost around $10,927 after the federal solar tax credit is applied. Keep in mind that a 5-kW system is about the minimum size for most homes.
New York State also offers a variety of solar incentives to help offset the cost of your system. These incentives have spurred the growth of solar in New York to new highs in 2021, pushing to over $7 billion of total investment. Under the right circumstances, New York’s solar incentives are capable of offsetting nearly half of the aggregate system installation costs.
| New York Solar Incentive | Incentive Description |
| NY-Sun Megawatt Block Incentive | This statewide incentive provides direct financial incentives for solar installations on a per-watt basis, meaning the larger your installation, the more financial support you’ll receive. |
| Solar Energy System Equipment Credit | New York residents are entitled to claim a tax credit equal to 25% of your qualified solar energy system equipment expenditure (limited to $5,000). |
| Sales Tax Exemption | New York residents don’t have to pay the state’s 4% sales tax on qualified solar equipment. |
| Net Metering | Standard net metering is available to most New York residents through 2022. Throughout 2022, New York will begin enrolling its solar customers in a net metering alternative aimed at easing utility costs. |
How to Find the Best Solar Installer in New York
Sorting through a large number of New York solar installers can seem challenging, but this actually presents a great opportunity for New York home and business owners. Unlike a number of other states, solar customers are far more likely to find a company that tailors to their local needs.
A large number of solar companies in New York also gives solar customers the opportunity to shop competing offers against each other, sometimes securing thousands of dollars during the process. Remember, these companies are competing for you.
Best Solar Companies New York: FAQs
The most reputable solar company in New York will depend heavily on your individual needs. New York may be the toughest state to answer this question in due to the wide variety of unique needs stemming from metropolitan, suburban and rural areas of the state.
As long as you have the right roof, solar in New York is typically well worth it. Rather than the sunshine being the main factor behind solar’s value, in New York, solar incentives are what make the switch worth it. Between the Megawatt Block incentive, federal tax credit and solar energy system equipment credit, New York homeowners can offset nearly 50% of their project costs.
One of the best ways to find a reputable solar company in New York is to compare free quotes from a number of installers. When comparing these quotes, or getting on-site consultations, you can find the best offer for your needs. Refer to our guide on finding local solar installers near you to learn more about reading and interpreting solar proposals.
