A Homeowner & Business FAQ
Electricity costs are rising across New York—and many homeowners and businesses are looking for ways to take control of their energy costs in 2026.
Incentives are evolving, utility rates remain unpredictable, and more New Yorkers are exploring solar as a long-term solution for stability and savings.
Below, we answer the most common questions we hear from homeowners and businesses considering solar this year.
Why are so many people going solar in 2026?
The biggest driver is simple: utility electricity rates keep going up.
In New York, average electricity prices have increased more than 40% since 2020, and there’s no guarantee they won’t continue rising. Solar allows homeowners and businesses to take control of a portion of their energy costs, rather than being fully exposed to utility rate increases.
Instead of relying entirely on utility pricing, solar lets you generate your own power and reduce exposure to future increases.
For many customers, solar isn’t just about sustainability anymore — it’s about long-term financial protection.
Are electricity rates expected to keep increasing?
While no one can predict exact future rates, several long-term trends point upward:
- Aging grid infrastructure
- Growing demand from electrification (EVs, heat pumps, data centers)
- Fuel price volatility
- Rising transmission and delivery costs
Utility customers ultimately pay for all of this. Solar helps reduce dependence on the grid by producing power where it’s used.
Is solar still worth it in 2026?
For many New York homeowners and businesses, yes.
Even in 2026, solar can offer:
- Lower lifetime energy costs compared to buying all power from the utility
- Potential for immediate monthly savings depending on system design and financing
- Predictable energy production for 25+ years
- Strong payback periods, often in the 6–12 year range depending on usage
- Protection from future rate increases
Every property is different, which is why a site-specific evaluation is important.
What incentives are available in 2026?
Incentives can change year to year, but New York continues to offer some of the strongest solar support in the country. These may include:
- New York State tax credits (up to capped limits)
- Incentives through programs supported by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
- Net metering or value-based compensation for excess energy
Even as some incentives evolve over time, rising electricity rates continue to support the long-term value of solar.
What is net metering and how does it affect my savings?
Net metering is one of the key ways solar systems deliver consistent value over time.
When your system produces more electricity than your home or business is using, that excess energy is sent back to the grid. In return, your utility provides credits that can be used when your system isn’t producing as much—such as at night or during the winter months.
In New York, net metering and similar compensation structures help balance energy production and usage throughout the year.
For most customers, this means:
- More consistent monthly savings
- Better utilization of the energy their system produces
- Less reliance on the utility over time
Does solar increase property value?
Multiple studies have shown that solar-equipped homes often sell for more than comparable non-solar homes. In New York, solar can increase property value without increasing property taxes, thanks to solar property tax exemptions.
For commercial properties, solar can also improve operating margins and make buildings more attractive to tenants.
What about winter, snow, cold weather, and cloudy days?
Solar panels are designed to perform in a wide range of conditions—including cold climates and less-than-sunny days.
In fact, solar panels often operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures than in extreme heat. While snow can temporarily cover panels, it typically slides off as the panels warm up or melts naturally over time.
On cloudy days, solar panels still produce electricity—just at a reduced level compared to full sun. This is expected and accounted for in overall system design and annual production estimates.
Over the course of a full year, longer summer days and stronger sunlight help balance out shorter, cloudier winter days. Net metering and energy credits also help ensure that excess production during sunnier periods can offset times when production is lower.
Is solar only for homeowners?
Not at all.
Commercial solar is a growing segment in New York. Businesses use solar to:
- Reduce operating expenses
- Hedge against unpredictable energy costs
- Improve sustainability metrics
- Demonstrate long-term financial planning
Warehouses, offices, agricultural buildings, and manufacturing facilities can all be strong candidates.
Solar panels installed by Renovus at Two Goats Brewing
How long do solar panels last?
Most modern solar panels are warrantied for 25 years, and many continue producing well beyond that timeframe. Inverters and other components may require replacement earlier, which is factored into system design and long-term planning.
Solar is best viewed as a long-term infrastructure investment, not a short-term upgrade.
What’s the first step to going solar?
The best place to start is with a solar evaluation. This typically includes:
- Reviewing your electric usage
- Evaluating roof or site conditions
- Designing a system sized for your goals
- Estimating costs, incentives, and long-term savings
There’s no obligation — just information to help you make an informed decision.
Is 2026 a good year to get a solar quote?
Yes. Even if you don’t plan to install immediately, getting a quote in 2026 helps you:
- Understand your exposure to rising utility rates
- See how solar would impact your energy costs
- Plan ahead for installation timing
- Compare solar to continuing utility-only power
With electricity prices at historic highs, many New Yorkers see 2026 as the year to seriously evaluate their options.
See How Much You Could Save
If your electric bill has been increasing, now is the time to explore your options.
Get a personalized solar estimate to understand your potential savings in 2026 and beyond.
