Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Johnson City, New York. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading local and employee-owned company with a strong focus on custom-designed residential solar and battery storage systems. They are widely recognized for their expertise, customer service, and deep knowledge of New York state incentives like NY-SUN.
A well-established, local provider known for high-quality installations and comprehensive service, from consultation to maintenance. They offer a wide array of financing options and have strong partnerships with top-tier equipment manufacturers.
A prominent, employee-owned solar installer serving the broader Finger Lakes and Southern Tier regions, including Johnson City. They are known for their large scale, professional operations, and expertise in both residential and commercial projects, including complex off-grid systems.
** The home solar market in Johnson City and the greater Binghamton area is mature and competitive, characterized by a mix of a few highly-regarded local installers and larger regional companies. The overall quality is high, as companies must adhere to strict New York State codes and utility interconnection standards. Competition is robust, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, but the effective cost is significantly lowered by a combination of the 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and New York State-specific incentives, including the NY-SUN Megawatt Block incentive, which provides a direct rebate. Furthermore, net metering with New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) allows homeowners to receive bill credit for excess energy they export to the grid. Reputable local installers are exceptionally well-versed in navigating this incentive landscape for their customers.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Johnson City regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Johnson City, New York.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Johnson City, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, New York State offers significant incentives that drastically reduce this cost, including the NY-Sun Megawatt Block incentive (a direct rebate), a 25% state tax credit (up to $5,000), and the complete removal of state sales tax on equipment and installation. Combined with the 30% federal tax credit, your final net investment can be 50-70% lower.
Johnson City experiences four distinct seasons, which impacts solar production. You'll generate the most energy during sunny spring and summer days, while shorter, cloudier winter days yield less. Importantly, solar panels operate efficiently in cold weather and snow is not a major issue; panels are installed at an angle so snow usually slides off, and their dark color helps melt it quickly. Your system is designed to over-produce in summer to build credits with your utility (net metering) to offset lower winter production.
All solar installations in Johnson City require a building permit from the Village Building Department, and your installer will typically handle this process. The Village will inspect the structural integrity of your roof mounting and the electrical work. Your roof should be in good condition with at least 10-15 years of remaining life; south-facing roofs with minimal shading from trees or other structures are ideal for maximum production in our latitude.
Choose a provider certified by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and ensure they are a licensed electrical contractor in good standing. Get multiple detailed proposals that include system size (kW), estimated annual production (kWh), equipment brands, warranty terms (25-year is standard for panels), and a full breakdown of costs and savings. Ask for local references and verify they have experience navigating the interconnection process with NYSEG, our local utility.
Net metering is a NYS policy where NYSEG credits you for excess solar energy you send to the grid, spinning your meter backward. These credits offset the cost of power you draw from the grid at night or on cloudy days. You will still receive a monthly bill from NYSEG, but it will be significantly reduced, often to just a small customer service charge (around $15-$20). Once a year, NYSEG "trues up" your account, and you may receive a credit or owe a small balance depending on your annual production versus consumption.