Erie County (Buffalo area) is one of the least sunny metros in the US — but solar is still viable here thanks to NY's incentive stack. After the 30% federal credit and NY 25% state credit (up to $5,000), a $30,000 system costs under $16,500 before any NY-Sun incentives. National Grid NY rates are rising steadily. Amherst and Hamburg's newer suburban stock has good southern exposure. Buffalo is a growing solar market.
Erie County (Buffalo area) is one of the least sunny metros in the US — but solar is still viable here thanks to NY's incentive stack. After the 30% federal credit and NY 25% state credit (up to $5,000), a $30,000 system costs under $16,500 before any NY-Sun incentives. National Grid NY rates are rising steadily. Amherst and Hamburg's newer suburban stock has good southern exposure. Buffalo is a growing solar market.
Primary utility: National Grid NY — eligible for NY-Sun Megawatt Block and net metering. Average monthly bills: $105–$145/month. Typical payback: 5–9 years.
New York offers a 25% state income tax credit on solar installation costs, up to $5,000. This stacks on top of the federal 30% ITC. Combined, Erie County homeowners can offset up to $14,000+ in tax liability depending on system size.
NYSERDA's NY-Sun program provides upfront per-watt rebates to reduce system costs. Incentive levels decrease as blocks fill — earlier is better. Your installer applies on your behalf.
Excess solar production earns credits on your National Grid NY bill at the retail rate, rolling month-to-month. Your installer handles the interconnection application.
Gross cost: $21,000–$36,000. After 30% federal ITC + NY 25% credit: approximately $11,700–$21,200 net cost, before NY-Sun incentives.
2 minutes. No commitment. Licensed NY installers only.