Frequently Asked Questions

Going solar is financially beneficial in the long run as it can save $20,000 to $97,000 on electricity bills over the 25-year lifespan of solar panels.

Solar panels typically are warrantied for 25 years and may last for 35 years.

For a Very Limited Time, Yes, solar panels provide tax benefits like the federal solar tax credit covering 30% of installation costs. Congress is voting the Solar Initiative Tax Credit (SITC) out of existence right now in July 2025. You may or may not have the remainder of this year to qualify.

It's possible for a house to run purely on solar power with a large enough system and battery storage but no NJ townships will allow you to completely remove yourself from the grid.

The number of solar panels needed depends on the home's energy usage, but a typical residential system has 20-40 panels.

Factors like electricity rates, sunlight availability, incentives, and financing options determine if solar is worth it financially.

 Online solar calculators estimate potential savings based on electricity usage, system size, and local conditions.

The average break-even point or payback period for a solar system is 7-9 years.

Higher quality solar equipment like panels and microinverters improve system performance and longevity.

Alternatives to installing solar include community solar projects and energy efficiency upgrade

Compare proposals based on system size, production estimates, equipment quality, pricing, and

Long-term savings potential from solar is $20,000 to $97,000 over 25 years.

Solar can reduce energy bills by covering some or all of a home's electricity needs.

There is usually no maintenance cost for solar panels in NJ and you should only get panels with long warranties

Solar contributes to energy independence by generating electricity on-site.

Solar reduces carbon emissions by providing clean, renewable electricity.

Federal Solar Tax Credit

The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is one of the most substantial incentives. It allows you to deduct 30% of the cost of installing a solar photovoltaic (PV) system from your federal taxes. This credit was to be available through 2032 and applies to both residential and commercial solar installations but, unfortunately congress is voting it out of existence right now in July of 2025.

Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs)

In certain states with SREC markets, homeowners can sell certificates representing the environmental attributes of the solar electricity their system generates. The income from SREC sales can help recoup the solar investment over time.

To maximize the financial benefits, it's crucial to research and take advantage of all the solar incentives available in your state and from your local utility. Working with an experienced solar installer can also ensure you receive the proper credits and incentives.

State-specific solar incentives can vary significantly in their types and values compared to the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC). Here's a comparison of state and federal solar incentives:

## Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

- Provides a 30% tax credit on the cost of installing a residential or commercial solar photovoltaic (PV) system.
- The 30% credit is available through 2032, then steps down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034 before being eliminated for residential systems in 2035.
- Applies to the total system cost including equipment, labor, and permitting fees.
- Is a non-refundable credit, meaning it cannot exceed the taxpayer's federal income tax liability for that year.

## State Solar Incentives

States offer a variety of solar incentives that can be used in addition to the federal ITC. Common state incentives include:

### State Tax Credits
- Similar to the federal ITC but apply to state income taxes instead.
- Typical values range from 10-35% of system costs, with some capped at fixed dollar amounts like $5,000-$10,000.
- Examples: New York (25% up to $5,000), Massachusetts (15% capped at $1,000).

### Rebate Programs
- Provide upfront cash rebates based on the system's size or expected production.
- Values can be a fixed dollar amount per watt ($/W) of installed capacity.
- Examples: California's SGIP rebates for solar+storage, Oregon's residential rebates up to $5,000.

### Renewable Energy Credits (RECs/SRECs)
- Allow system owners to sell certificates representing the renewable energy their system generates.
- Provides an income stream, but market values for RECs/SRECs can fluctuate over time.
- Active SREC markets exist in states like Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

### Net Metering
- Requires utilities to credit customers at the retail electricity rate for excess solar power sent to the grid.
- Net metering policies and crediting rates differ across states and utilities.

### Tax Exemptions
- Some states exempt solar installations from sales tax or increased property taxes.

While the federal ITC provides a consistent 30% tax credit nationwide, state incentives are highly location-dependent. Some states like California, New York, and Massachusetts offer very generous incentives, while others have minimal or no state programs. Working with a reputable local solar installer is key to taking maximum advantage of all incentives available.

Yes, installing solar panels can provide significant long-term financial benefits for New Jersey homeowners. The state offers attractive incentives that help reduce upfront costs and provide ongoing savings on electricity bills. With high electricity rates and ample sunshine, the payback period for solar in NJ is relatively short compared to other states. Many homeowners can recoup their investment in 5-8 years through lower utility costs and incentives.

New Jersey has several valuable incentives for residential solar installations. The federal solar investment tax credit allows a 30% tax credit on system costs. Additionally, NJ offers a transition renewable energy certificate (TREC) program where homeowners can sell certificates for the solar electricity their system generates. The state also exempts solar system costs from sales tax and increased property taxes. Net metering policies allow crediting excess solar power sent to the grid.