Solar payback in New York (2026)
In New York, a typical 8 kW home-solar system costing about $24,000 ($3/W, no federal credit in 2026) has an estimated simple payback of 8.1 years and roughly $67,881 in net savings over 25 years. This assumes an average rate of 28.55¢/kWh and ~1,180 kWh produced per kW each year.
Source: EIA & NREL. Data as of March–June 2026.
Lower sun is offset by high electricity rates plus a 25% state tax credit (capped at $5,000) and NY-Sun incentives, keeping payback competitive even after the federal credit ended.
New York solar payback at a glance
| Metric | Value (NY) |
|---|---|
| Average residential rate | 28.55 ¢/kWh |
| Peak sun hours (daily avg) | 3.9 h |
| Production factor | 1,180 kWh/kW/yr |
| 8 kW system annual output | 9,440 kWh |
| Est. up-front cost (8 kW @ $3/W) | $24,000 |
| Year-1 bill savings | $2,695 |
| Estimated simple payback | 8.1 years |
| Estimated 25-year net savings | $67,881 |
Source: EIA Electric Power Monthly (Mar 2026) & NREL PVWatts. Data as of June 2026.
Run your own numbers for New York
The calculator below is pre-filled with New York's electricity rate and production factor. Change the system size, cost per watt or escalation to match your own quote.
Figures are planning estimates that ignore financing, inverter replacement and maintenance. They assume cash purchase, 3%/yr rate escalation and 0.5%/yr panel degradation. See the methodology and disclaimer.
How New York compares
Browse all states to compare payback, or read the guides: Is solar worth it in 2026 without the federal credit? and solar payback period explained.
Frequently asked questions
What is the solar payback period in New York?
For a typical 8 kW system costing about $24,000 ($3/W) with no federal tax credit in 2026, the estimated simple payback in New York is roughly 8.1 years, based on an average residential rate of 28.55¢/kWh and a production factor of about 1,180 kWh per kW per year. Your actual payback depends on your quote, usage and net-metering rules.
Is solar worth it in New York now that the federal tax credit has expired?
The 30% federal residential credit (Section 25D) expired on December 31, 2025, which raises the up-front cost of 2026 installs by about 30%. Lower sun is offset by high electricity rates plus a 25% state tax credit (capped at $5,000) and NY-Sun incentives, keeping payback competitive even after the federal credit ended.
How much electricity does an 8 kW system produce in New York?
About 9,440 kWh in year one (8 kW × 1,180 kWh/kW), declining slowly as panels degrade ~0.5% per year.
Other states
Last updated: 2026-06-14