Is solar worth it in New York?
Yes. New York's average residential rate was 28.65 cents per kWh in August 2026, up from 26.64 cents a year earlier, and net metering still credits exports at the full retail rate. The state's 25% solar credit, up to $5,000, also applies to leases and PPAs of 10 years or more.
The facts
- Average residential rate: 28.65 cents per kWh in August 2026, up from 26.64 cents a year earlier. Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Electric Power Monthly Table 5.6.A
- Con Edison rates rise 3.6%, 3.3% and 3.2% for 2026 to 2028. Source: News 12 Westchester, Con Edison rate hikes
- National Grid upstate rates rose 11.51% in year one. Source: NY Department of Public Service, National Grid rate case summary
- NYSEG and RG&E full rate requests are pending; staff estimate increases of 23.7% and 26%. Source: NY Department of Public Service, NYSEG and RG&E
- Net metering credits exports at full retail, with a monthly CBC charge. Source: SolarReviews, New York net metering
- The state solar equipment credit is 25%, up to $5,000, and leases and PPAs of 10 years or more qualify. Source: NY Department of Taxation, solar energy system equipment credit
Sources
- U.S. Energy Information Administration, Electric Power Monthly Table 5.6.A
- News 12 Westchester, Con Edison rate hikes
- NY Department of Public Service, National Grid rate case summary
- NY Department of Public Service, NYSEG and RG&E
- SolarReviews, New York net metering
- NY Department of Taxation, solar energy system equipment credit
Written by Energy Company team
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