Looking for the Best Solar Company?
Hi There. We’re Here for You.
OK, so you’ve done your research: solar power is the most cost effective renewable energy source that saves you money, raises your property value, works reliably, and is better for the environment. It’s decided — you’re ready to switch to solar! (Cue parade music and ticker tape ribbons!)
Tap Our Sunny Disposition… and Our Expertise!
Getting ready to join the clean energy family is an exciting time, and we’ve got a few feathers in our cap we can share so you know you’ll be working with the best solar company out there. We’ve won a few awards (check out our accolades here) and have been recognized by NYSERDA as a Quality Installer with Gold Status (which means we rank super high on their faves list). We’re a preferred partner with New York villages and cities for the development, installation, and financing of Community Solar Arrays.
We’re also thrilled to offer more than 15 years of installation expertise in New York, and we’re committed to giving you an incredibly positive experience, just like we did for thousands of other solarized New Yorkers — some probably right in your neighborhood.
More Reasons Why SunCommon is the Best Solar Company
Perhaps most significant to our customers is the fact that we’re locally-owned and operated. We live and work in the communities we serve, which means we have better insight into our customers’ particular needs. We’re not sure the same can be said about providers headquartered in Texas or California — in fact, we’ve heard stories of cost-savings estimates based on national stats that had no bearing on local conditions, which can be pretty misleading!
“Wow, SunCommon, sign me up!”
Smart plan! Spring is the ideal time to plan your solar project with us (find out why here), so if you’re ready to commit, here are a few things you can do to help get the ball rolling:
- Make sure your roof is in good shape and not in need of repair or replacement.
- Determine what direction the slope of your roof faces. You’ll want plenty of exposure to the sun, but that doesn’t always mean your roof needs to face south. Or, make sure there’s a sunny spot on your property where a ground-mounted system could go.
- Find out what financial incentives are available to you. In New York, there may be state incentives in addition to federal tax credits.
- Locate your most recent electric bill so we can estimate your power needs.
If you’ve decided that SunCommon is the best solar company to handle your project, give us a shout! We’ll answer any questions and then start rolling up our sleeves for you right away.
The NYSERDA Solar Incentive is Decreasing — Get the most out of solar while you can!
If this spring weather has you thinking about going solar, you aren’t alone! Spring is a great time to capture the sun’s rays because the days are finally long enough to bank credits for next winter. Another reason this spring is a good time to go or solar is that a major New York incentive is about to decrease, resulting in around $1650 of lost savings for the average solar system.
New York has the best solar incentives in the country
When you go solar at home in New York state, you’re eligible for several incentives that make solar more affordable. They include the federal tax credit, the New York state tax credit, and the NYSERDA solar incentive. This NYSERDA incentive will be decreasing sometime this spring. Read more about all New York incentives here.
What’s happening with the NYSERDA solar incentive?
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, better known as NYSERDA, allocates funding for residential solar projects in “blocks.” Each block has a different incentive rate, and they step down gradually over time. The current block is set at 35¢ per watt — which means for an average sized home solar system, the state will cover $3,850 of the purchase price, paying it directly to the installer for you.
But this current funding block is nearly depleted and will run out sometime this spring. Once it’s gone, the next funding block only provides 20¢ per watt, or about $2200 for an average sized system. Which means that waiting to go solar until summer could cost you $1650 in lost incentives.
Are all solar incentives going down?
It’s true that, by design, most incentives decrease over time and eventually go away. For example, the 26% federal investment tax credit (ITC) for solar was scheduled to drop down to zero by the end of 2021, but in an unexpected move by congress, it received a 2-year extension as part of the recent stimulus bill. It is now scheduled to phase out entirely by the end of 2023.
The New York state solar tax credit covers 25% (up to $5000) of the cost of your system and does not currently have a scheduled end date.
Go solar before April 30th to lock in NYSERDA’s current rate
With long days and home improvement season officially upon us, now is the perfect time to look into solar (and even energy storage!) for your home. And to sweeten the deal, SunCommon will guarantee NYSERDA’s current incentive rate for anyone who signs up for solar before the end of April 2021.
Schedule a time to chat with one of our expert Solar Advisors before this incentive drops!
Our team is available for virtual home visits to explain the various options and programs that are available to your home, so that you can go solar, save money, and do good by the planet all at the same time.
Strong New Yorkers Make Strong Investments.
The SunCommon team is finally back to work safely installing solar, and we’re excited that New York State is supporting the renewable industry with an amazing new offer: NYSERDA is offering zero-percent interest solar financing for homes and small businesses! At SunCommon, we believe that a brighter future starts with sustainable, homegrown power. We call it “Powering with a Purpose,” and we’re encouraged that our leaders are promoting this better way forward for New Yorkers. So, if you’ve been thinking about going solar, this could be your once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reduce your carbon footprint and save money at the same time.
New York State’s zero percent solar financing is a limited program, offered on a first come, first served basis. We’re even offering Virtual Home Visits so we can start rebuilding… Safely, together.
This program is now full.
Great Solar Financing. High Quality Installation.
Our installation team was recently awarded with the 2020 NYSERDA Quality Solar Installer Award. Hiring a NYSERDA Quality Solar Installer means you’re choosing an installer who exceeds annual quality assurance criteria backed by NYS and consistently provides top tier performance and quality.
Why Else Should I Go Solar Now?
In addition to great solar financing, did you know that NYS will reimburse you $0.35 per solar watt you install? This monetary reward for going solar is part of a “block grant”. As more solar is installed throughout New York, the faster incentive money disappears from the block. Once an incentive block reaches capacity, the incentive drops. Right now, the incentive is $0.35 per watt and will decrease to $0.20 once remaining capacity is reached.
Click here to maximize the NYS incentive and sign up for zero interest solar financing today!
Did you know that only 15% of clothing is recycled or donated? That means 85% ends up in landfills. Besides all that waste, the clothing industry has a laundry list of damaging effects on the environment. The most noteworthy offenders: carbon emissions, water consumption and water pollution.
Clothing is made out of two materials: Synthetic (like polyester) or Natural Fiber (like cotton). However, each material comes with its own set of baggage.
Synthetics are made from crude oil, which releases two to three times more carbon emissions than cotton. The World Resources Institute has revealed that polyester production in 2015 accounted for 1.5 trillion pounds of CO2. That is equivalent to the annual emissions from 185 coal-fired power plants. Yikes. Plus, since polyester is essentially plastic, it takes hundreds to thousands of years to break down, and each time the garment is washed, hundreds of pieces of microplastic are released.
Cotton, on the other hand, is biodegradable… But that doesn’t outweigh its drawbacks. Cotton farming uses an enormous amount of water. The United Nations Environment Programme has calculated that it takes approximately 2,000 gallons of water to produce one pair of jeans. That’s enough water for one person to drink for 10 years! As a whole, the fashion industry is the second-largest water consumer AND second-largest water polluter on the planet. On top of the water consumption, the chemicals used in textile dyeing are rarely disposed of properly and often end up in streams and rivers.
Did You Know?
It takes approximately 2,000 gallons of water to produce one pair of jeans… That’s enough water for one person to drink for 10 years! Recycling clothing can help reduce water waste.
Over the past 18 months the world has started to make some real progress for the planet: several municipalities have enacted laws to limit disposable plastic use, NYC now requires all new construction to include solar or a green roof, and plant-based foods like Beyond Meat are becoming mainstream. However, the clothing industry has yet to have its climate-saving moment.
That’s why we created our Climate Action Film Festival shirts using pre-worn garments from our friends at Helpsy in White Plains, NY. Helpsy is a fellow B Corp with an environmental mission, committed to keeping clothes out of the trash, and supporting their community. During their hard work in 2018, they produced a net negative carbon footprint and avoided the use of 3 billion gallons of water. They have offset 320 Million pounds of CO2—that’s equivalent to the annual output of 31 wind turbines! Helpsy is not only committed to the planet, but also to our communities and our people. This past winter they provided over 120,000 high-quality used winter jackets to those in need in the NYC area.
Check out our recycled shirts from Helpsy being printed at New Duds!
In short, reusing and recycling clothing is a big deal. It reduces the environmental burden of the second-most polluting industry in the world. So next time you need a new piece of clothing, check out your local thrift shop.
Did you enjoy reading about recycling clothing?
If so, you can find more content over on our Blog, or learn more about the Climate Action Film Festival!
How do I go solar?
The process for going solar is simple. It starts with filling out our get started form. You can do so by clicking the get started button. If you want to know more details about the process and the steps involved between signing up and turning on the power, click the button below to find out more.
Nestled in the rolling hills of Tivoli, New York, Mead Orchards grows a delicious crop of fruits and vegetables all year round. They’ve engineered each row of trees to soak up maximum sunlight, much like the SunCommon solar modules on their barn roof.
Now, Joe grows his produce with sunlight, and uses energy from the sun to keep it fresh.
Watch: Joe Nuciforo describes how we aligned energy needs with his core values and his lifelong pursuit of growing great apples.
“The way you lay out a modern apple orchard is actually all about light interception; how much sun you’re catching…. You talk about light interception harnessing the sun, this is what we’re already doing.”
—Joe Nuciforo
Solar is more accessible than ever
Solar isn’t just for big business, we’ve installed our fair share of small businesses too!
With all the tax incentives, savings, and (let’s be honest) brownie points you’ll get, commercial solar is a no brainer.
Want to learn more about solar?
If you want to go solar at your home, but your property is heavily shaded or your roof is incompatible, buying a share of clean power from a community solar array (CSA) is the next best solar solution.
There are two different ways to become a CSA member: Ownership and Subscription.
But what’s the difference?
Community Solar Ownership – Maximum Savings and a lot of good.
If saving the most money with your solar is important to you, ownership is your best option.
Save 2-3 times more money on your utility bill with community solar ownership than with a subscription. Exact savings depend on how you pay for the system.
Become eligible for a 30% federal tax credit.
Enjoy consistent savings. Our rates don’t go up over time. You lock in your solar cost when you buy.
Own your solar panels and your power.
Increase the value of your home. When you move, either sell your solar panels with your home, or if you move within the same utility, take them with you to your next place.
Support a local company, local jobs, and keep your energy dollars local.
*All our arrays are small and well-sited, with minimal impact on the landscape. We support local pollinators by planting native wildflower species on site.
Community Solar Subscription — the Other Guys’ Option
If long term savings aren’t as important to you, this is an accessible option.
Immediate savings. Pay a little less on your utility bill each month than you would without the program.
Your monthly payment is similar to a cable bill, prices are tied to utility rates and are subject to rate increases (typically around 2 – 4%)
If your circumstances change and you need to exit the CSA, a cancellation fee will apply.
Most of the solar companies installing subscription CSAs aren’t local. They don’t live and work here. Your energy dollars go to a national company.
Even if you can’t go solar at home, solar is still accessible!
We believe everyone should be able to benefit from the savings renewable energy provides. Owning panels in a community solar array is the next best thing to having them directly on your roof and the most cost-efficient way to participate in a CSA.
If you live in Orange County, you shouldn’t need to worry about where your energy comes from. You, personally, can divest from dirty energy and lock in lower rates for cleaner power by joining a community solar array.
Learn more about our Community Solar options near you!
We currently have a CSA option for Central Hudson and Orange & Rockland electric customers.
We only have a limited number of new member spots left available, and this is the last year to claim the full 30% federal solar tax credit.
Here’s How Community Solar Works
Members of a CSA use solar credits produced by that array to reduce or eliminate their utility bill. The only requirement to become a member of a Community Solar Array is that you must live within the same utility load zone as the array. Since most utility load zones span counties, towns, and zip codes, our Solar Advisors can help determine which array you would belong to.
Want to learn more?
For information on how community solar works in general, you can visit our Community Solar page by clicking on the button below. There you will find helpful information on how to become a CSA member, how CSAs actually work, and more. If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact us directly.
As a mission driven business, we are constantly looking for ways to lower the barriers to clean energy. We have designed our community solar arrays (CSAs) to offer home renters of all varieties affordable, clean energy. Whether you’re just starting out in your career, new to the area or downsizing into a condo, we have the solar solution for people who want to save money on their bills.
Renters can go solar too
A community solar array is a field of solar panels. SunCommon’s CSAs allow you to purchase and own solar panels, without putting them on your property. This applies to renters. Even better, you can also claim the federal solar tax credit and the NYSERDA rebate, which means you can save even more money.
Many customers wonder, “What happens if I move in the future, or buy a new home?” Community solar is flexible. If you move to a new home with the same utility, you can still use the solar panels. SunCommon makes the switch easy. Call us, we’ll update your account number, and your new house has solar!
Community solar is simple.
Your utility will credit you a dollar amount on your monthly electric bill for your share of solar energy. It’s automatic, just like having solar panels on your roof.
Here’s How Community Solar Works
Members of a CSA use solar credits produced by that array to reduce or eliminate their utility bill. The only requirement to become a member of a Community Solar Array is that you must live within the same utility load zone as the array. Since most utility load zones span counties, towns, and zip codes, our Solar Advisors can help determine which array you would belong to.
Learn more about our Community Solar options near you!
We currently have a CSA option for Central Hudson and Orange & Rockland electric customers.
We only have a limited number of new member spots left available, and this is the last year to claim the full 30% federal solar tax credit.
Want to learn more about how Community Solar works?
For information on how community solar works in general, you can visit our Community Solar page by clicking on the button below. There you will find helpful information on how to become a CSA member, how CSAs actually work, and more. If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact us directly.
What does it take to be a solar community organizer?
Meet Scott Meyers
What drew you to the solar industry and becoming a Community Organizer?
I grew up in rural, western New York, surrounded by a playground of nature and wildlife. From a young age I was passionate about improving the life of individuals around me, which led me to pursue a Bachelors degree in Political Science and Government. While studying I made a point to take any internship opportunity that came my way, and was introduced to solar energy during a semester long internship with the local town government.
The town was in the final stages of bringing a Solar Array in to power the municipal buildings, and that was my ‘light bulb’ moment. As I listened to engineers explain the savings opportunities to the town, I knew I wanted to focus my personal and professional life on bringing clean, renewable, solar energy to as many people as possible.
After graduation I joined Americorps NCCC as a Team Leader, and worked with communities that were in need. During my year of service I was able to work with families impacted by the aggressive wildfires in Northern California as well as victims of Hurricane Irma in Southern Florida. I gained a new perspective on these disasters that were exacerbated by climate change. I knew after those experiences that taking my passion and efforts to the solar industry was my next step. Three weeks after my Americorps graduation I started at SunCommon as a Community Organizer.
What does sustainability mean to you?
Sustainability is really important to me. It means leaving this earth a cleaner and healthier place for future generations. There is no “Planet B,” so it is our job to take steps to be more sustainable and helping others do the same. Little things like recycling, composting, and eating locally sourced foods all make a difference. Similarly, you can do big things like purchasing an EV or going solar. Every little bit helps and can make a major impact on how sustainably you live your life!
What’s your advice for someone looking to make an impact in this field, or in fighting climate change in general?
The solar industry is absolutely booming right now and it only continues to grow. There are so many skill sets that are valuable to the industry. You may be surprised where you’ll fit in! If you’re thinking about working for a company like SunCommon, look out for responsible companies who are serious about making an impact. For us, it’s adding much needed renewable energy to the grid. But there are lots of ways to leave the world better than you found it.
Take your skills and passion and work for industry that is already making a difference. There are so many great career fields out there that bring value to one’s life, and working in the industry might not be the case for you. However, there are ways to get involved locally and nationally that are just as important. Join your local river- or water keeper; your local Sierra Club, or start a sustainable group at your school or town government. Commit some of your time and energy to this beautiful place we live and get involved!
Have you heard Central Hudson rates are going up in 2024?
Central Hudson has announced that their rates will be increasing when their current rate plan expires in June of next year. If their proposed new rate plan goes through, average residential electric bills will increase by approximately 16% and natural gas bills by 19%. That’s a huge difference, especially when you consider rates will only continue to increase from there over the years.
You can avoid rate hikes like this by going solar now. Going solar provides you with control and predictability because your payment will never go up. When you purchase a solar electric system, you lock in the rate you pay for electricity, and you’ll have a fixed monthly payment, with each payment getting you closer to owning your solar outright (and ditching a monthly bill all together).
With utility power, on the other hand, you’re stuck in an agreement where the rules (and prices) can change at any time. As long as you need power, you are going to have to pay them for it, at whatever rate they want to charge you. So why not get in a contract where you know what you’re paying, and in the end, you don’t even have a monthly payment at all?
How long do you plan on paying for energy?
It’s likely that you’ll always need energy to power your home. Buying from your utility or fuel dealer is like paying rent – you pay every month but never build equity or lasting value. When you go solar, you purchase the means to generate your own power and stop the cycle of paying for electricity forever.
Energy costs tend to head in one direction: UP!
When you power and/or heat your home with solar, you take back control – and avoid rising costs.
SunCommon and the Pointe of Praise church are growing solar in the Hudson Valley.
The Community Solar Array at the Pointe of Praise Church in Kingston has helped over 100 local homes go solar. If Central Hudson is your utility company and you want to go solar but not at your home, then Community Solar is the perfect solution for you.
This CSA is currently full. But, occasionally members move outside of the Central Hudson service territory and a space will open up. Add your name to the waitlist and we’ll reach out when we have a spot available!
A new solar option for New York
The Pointe of Praise church in Kingston strives to improve the lives of its community members, and that fits right in with our thinking at SunCommon.
Community Solar Arrays (CSAs) are your local solar farm co-op. When you buy into a CSA, you have all the benefits of owning a solar array for your home without installing anything on your roof.
“We at Pointe of Praise Family Life Center believe that God created this good earth that we dwell on, and He has commissioned man to be responsible and take care of it.
In fulfilling this obligation, we’ve asked SunCommon to build a Community Solar Array on our property in Kingston, NY.
This will provide citizens of all economic standings access to solar power without having to install it on their own properties.
NY State has set a goal to have 50% of our energy come from renewable sources by 2030. We are proud to be partners in making this happen.”
— Reverend James Childs
Pointe of Praise Family Life Center
Here’s How Community Solar Works
Members of a CSA use solar credits produced by that array to reduce or eliminate their utility bill. The only requirement to become a member of a Community Solar Array is that you must live within the same utility load zone as the array. Since most utility load zones span counties, towns, and zip codes, our Solar Advisors can help determine which array you would belong to.
Is Community Solar The Right Option For Me?
- Out of sight, out of mind: Going green is now as simple as seeing solar credits on your utility bill!
- Plan on moving soon? Community Solar is a flexible option
- Community Solar is sited for maximum sun hours, so there’s no need to worry about shade from surrounding trees
- Easily cover 100% of your home’s electric usage without worrying about space constraints
In this CSA, you own your panels.
- Own your solar panels
- Maximum savings
- Receive the tax credits available
Ask if joining a CSA is right for you
866-452-7652
Want to learn more about how Community Solar works?
For information on how community solar works in general, you can visit our Community Solar page by clicking on the button below. There you will find helpful information on how to become a CSA member, how CSAs actually work, and more. If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact us directly.