5 Common Questions About Solar Panel Installation in NYC Answered

Solar panels are becoming increasingly common in New York City, and for good reason. They pay for themselves through electric bill savings and, as Con Ed rates continue to rise, so does the return you’ll see on your investment in solar panels.

Still, installing solar panels is a big decision. If you have questions, Brooklyn SolarWorks is here to help. We specialize in solar installation for NYC homes and have installed thousands of systems throughout all five boroughs.

Keep reading for answers to the most common questions we hear from homeowners thinking about installing solar panels in NYC.

1. How Easy Is It to Install Solar Panels in New York City?

Installing solar panels in New York City involves unique, complex challenges like navigating tightly spaced buildings, strict fire codes, and complex layers of permitting.

For an experienced solar panel installer, the process can be smooth and simple for homeowners, even when the process itself isn’t exactly easy. This is exactly why choosing an experienced local partner is so important. At Brooklyn SolarWorks, we know NYC’s solar code inside and out. We handle all the applications, custom designs, and logistics for you. We’ve spent years developing custom solar solutions for city homes, including flat roofs, small rooftops, and landmarked buildings, and we manage the complexities so your solar installation can be easy and stress-free.

2. What Types of Roofs Work for Solar Panels in NYC?

The short answer is: any type of roof can work for solar panels, as long as the solar system is designed to conform to your roof, and not the other way around!

We believe solar should be accessible to everyone, which is why we’ve designed custom installation options that make solar possible on the many common NYC roof types, including:

• Flat Roofs: Creative design is needed to navigate rooftop equipment and fire codes, often solved by a system like our patented Solar Canopy.
• Small Roofs: Space-saving systems are necessary to make solar a worthwhile investment, even for small homes with low electricity usage.
• Historic Homes: Custom, low-profile systems are used to comply with preservation standards.
• Co-Ops & Condos: Tailored systems are designed to account for both shared common areas and individual unit usage.
• Pitched Roofs: Solar panels can be easily installed on houses with pitched roofs using traditional solar mounting systems.

3. What Are the Permitting Requirements for Solar Panel Installation in NYC?

To install solar panels in NYC, you need to comply with strict building and fire codes. If you’re installing solar on a Landmarked home, you will need additional approvals.

Exact permitting requirements can vary by project, but most solar installations in NYC require:

• Alteration Type 2 Permit: You will need a construction permit and an electrical work permit from the Department of Buildings.
• Fire Pathway Compliance: To receive your permit, your system’s design must comply with fire regulations that ensure clear roof access and a 6 foot fire path.
• Landmark Approval: If your home or building is in a historic district, approval is needed from the Landmarks Preservation Commission.

Navigating this red tape is complex, but it’s our specialty. We know the permitting requirements inside out and handle every step of the process for you. Plus, we track progress in our customer portal, so you can easily follow along.

4. Are There Incentives for Solar Panels in NYC?

There are excellent incentives for solar panel installation in New York City. You could get up uto 60% of your cost covered!

Here’s a quick look at what’s available:

• New York Solar Tax Credit: Claim a $5,000 credit on your state income taxes.
• NYC Property Tax Abatement: Claim 30% of your solar installation costs as a property tax abatement, significantly reducing your property taxes over a 4-year period.
• Historic Homeownership Rehabilitation Tax Credit: Claim an additional 20% tax credit if you live in a qualifying historic district.
• Net Metering: Automatically export the extra electricity your solar panels generate to the main grid. You receive credits in exchange, which offset the cost of the grid power you use when your solar panels are not producing electricity. You can think of it like the electric grid acting as a battery that stores your solar power for later use. This is ideal, because solar batteries are not allowed in NYC.

5. How Long Does the Solar Installation Process Take in New York City?

Installing solar panels in New York City takes less time than you may think. The installation often just takes 1 day for a standard residential home solar installation. The entire process usually takes 2-3 months from your initial consultation to final inspection approval.

Have More Questions? We Have Answers!

If you’re researching solar panels for your home and have additional questions, we would love to hear from you. Reach out to us today to schedule a free, 30-minute phone consultation. We’ll talk to you about your options, answer your questions, and help you decide whether solar makes sense for you.

Call 929-977-0058 or schedule your free solar consultation online today.