10 solar myths, debunked.
As Long Island solar experts, we hear the same myths repeatedly. Let's separate fact from fiction.
Myth: Solar panels don't work in New York winters
Fact: Panels generate electricity from light, not heat—cool temperatures actually allow peak performance, and snow reflection can boost production once panels are clear. Annual production is what matters, and Long Island gets excellent year-round sun. Germany, with less sunlight than New York, is a global solar leader.
Myth: Solar isn't worth it anymore now that the federal tax credit is gone
Fact: This one requires an honest update. The federal residential tax credit and PSEG's old rebate program have both expired—that part is true. But the math hasn't gotten worse; it's shifted. The Participate Pre-Paid Lease now offers 25-35% off system cost right off the top, which closes most or all of the gap those expired incentives used to cover—without the tax filing complexity. Layer on PSEG's continued rate increases, with further hikes already expected, and solar is arguably a stronger financial decision today than it was when the federal credit was in place.
Myth: Solar panels will damage my roof
Fact: Professional installation uses proper waterproof flashing and sealants that prevent leaks, and panels actually shield the roof surface underneath from UV, rain, and hail. A roof assessment happens before installation, and workmanship warranties cover the work.
Myth: Maintenance is expensive and complicated
Fact: Rain keeps panels largely self-cleaning, there are no moving parts to service, and monitoring alerts you automatically to any issues. The only likely cost over a system's life is inverter replacement around year 12-15—still far less than the electricity savings accumulated by then.
Myth: My roof isn't right for solar
Fact: Most Long Island homes are excellent candidates. South-facing is optimal, but southeast/southwest orientations perform at 90-95%, and east/west at 80-90%. Panel-level microinverters optimize each panel individually, so partial shade rarely rules a roof out entirely.
Myth: My solar payment won't actually beat my current electric bill
Fact: With the Participate Pre-Paid Lease's 25-35% upfront discount and no ongoing lease payments, many homeowners see immediate monthly savings from day one—and as PSEG rates continue climbing, that gap between "what you'd be paying the utility" and "what you're paying now" only widens. This is precisely why we build every proposal around your actual usage and current bill, not a generic estimate.
Myth: Panels don't last long
Fact: Modern panels degrade only about 0.5% per year and still produce 85-90% of original output after 25 years, backed by 25-30 year performance warranties.
Myth: Solar doesn't increase home value
Fact: Solar homes typically sell for 4-6% more than comparable homes without it—on a $500,000 Long Island home, that's $20,000-30,000 in added value.
Myth: Installation is disruptive and takes forever
Fact: Physical installation takes just 1-3 days. Work happens outside, and your daily routine continues normally throughout.
Myth: I should wait for better technology or a better incentive
Fact: Current panel and battery technology is proven and excellent. And waiting for a better incentive cuts the other way this time—PSEG rates are rising, with even higher increases already expected, while the Participate program's 25-35% discount is available right now. Every year you wait is another year of full-price electricity while the case for switching keeps getting stronger, not weaker.
The bottom line
The federal tax credit and PSEG rebate are gone—but between the Participate Pre-Paid Lease's 25-35% upfront incentive and utility rates that keep climbing, solar remains one of the strongest financial moves a Long Island homeowner can make. The math looks different than it did two years ago. It doesn't look worse.