“Solar energy is the only permanent, inexhaustible fuel source for our civilization.” 

—Nikola Tesla

Solar power is more than panels on a roof—it’s a global movement reshaping how we live, work, and save money. From cutting-edge rooftop designs invented in Brooklyn to massive solar farms abroad, the story of solar is full of surprising insights. For more fun facts, check out these unexpected solar panels you can find throughout NYC. 

Here are some fascinating solar energy facts that will make you see your rooftop differently.

1. The Sun Delivers a Year’s Worth of Energy in Just One Hour

NASA estimates that the Earth receives 173,000 terawatts of solar energy continuously—that’s more than 10,000 times the world’s energy use. That means every hour, the sun delivers enough energy to power the entire planet for a year!

2. New York State Is Becoming a Solar Leader

According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), New York State ranks in the top 10 for solar growth, with more than 6 gigawatts of solar installed—enough to power 1 million homes.

3. NYC Has Solar Panels In Weird Places

Check out our round up of the strangest solar panels in the city—including Coney Island, the Javits Center, and more.

4. Solar Panels Love the Cold

"Solar actually works better in winter," says Jacob Lezell, Chief Solar Officer here at Mpower Solar. This is because panels operate more efficiently in colder weather, as temperatures above 77°F cause decreases in voltage, according to the  U.S. Department of Energy. 

5. Snow Can Actually Boost Production

Fresh snow reflects sunlight, creating a “mirror effect” that can boost panel performance by up to 10%. First make sure your panels are cleared of snow, of course. Check out our guide on how to keep snow off solar panels.

6. Solar Saves New Yorkers Serious Money

NYC homeowners with solar panels can see utility bills as low as $20.

7. NYC Solar Incentives Are Some of the Best in the Country

Between the 30% Federal Tax Credit (expiring at the end of 2025), the NY State solar tax credit (up to $5,000), and NYC property tax abatements (20–30%), homeowners can reduce the total cost of their system dramatically. Explore incentives with Mpower Solar.

8. Homes With Solar Sell For More Money

A Zillow study found homes with solar sell for 4.1% more nationally, but in NYC, it’s closer to 5.4%, translating to tens of thousands in added value. Potential homebuyers value the lower energy costs and energy independence offered by solar. 

9. Panels Can Last 25 Years

Most solar panels can last for many years with very little maintenance. At Mpower Solar, panels come with a 25-year manufacturer warranty.

10. Solar Is a Major U.S. Job Creator

The U.S. solar industry (Solar Energy Industries Association or SEIA) employs over 263,000 people—more than the coal industry.

11. Brooklyn Actually Revolutionized Solar

Elevated solar canopies—lifting panels above flat rooftops to meet NYC fire codes while doubling solar output—was a technique developed right here in Brooklyn. 

12. Cloudy Skies? No Problem.

Germany—known for cloudy weather—was once the world leader in solar adoption. Panels can still generate 10–25% of capacity even on overcast days. See our guide to solar panel maintenance in winter for more info. 

13. It Takes Less than 10 Years To Recoup Your Solar Investment in NYC

With stacked incentives, many NYC homeowners see a 6–8 year payback period—sometimes faster if energy rates spike. And remember, Con Ed usually raises its rates twice a year! In 2025, ConEd has applied to increase rates by 13.4%.

14. There Are Over 100,000 Solar-Powered Homes in NYC

According to NYSERDA, NYC now has more than 100,000 solar-equipped rooftops, a number growing every month.

15. Solar Panels Require Minimal Upkeep

Most need little more than an annual inspection and occasional cleaning to stay efficient.

16. Community Solar Brings Access to Renters

NYC residents without rooftops can join community solar programs like Shared Solar NYC, cutting bills while supporting renewable energy.

17. Solar’s Growth Is Explosive

In the last decade, the U.S. added more solar capacity than in the previous 50 years combined.

18. Solar Is Getting Cheaper

Since 2010, the cost of solar panels has fallen by more than 70%, making solar more accessible than ever.

19. Solar Cuts Carbon Big Time

A typical NYC solar system offsets 4–5 tons of CO₂ per year—equal to planting 100+ trees annually.

20. The World's Biggest Solar Farm is in India

India’s Bhadla Solar Park spans 14,000 acres and generates over 2,000 MW—enough to power millions of homes.

21. You Don’t Need to Pay Anything Upfront

With leases and financing, homeowners can go solar with little to no upfront cost. See Mpower Solar financing options.

22. The U.S. Could Go 100% Renewable by 2050

Stanford University studies suggest that solar could meet up to 45% of national electricity demand by mid-century, while wind and hydropower make up the rest. 

23. NYC’s Solar Potential Is Still Untapped

Despite rapid growth, NYC rooftops could host 2.5 gigawatts more solar capacity according to NYSERDA.

24. Solar Strengthens Energy Independence

Every rooftop system installed reduces reliance on fossil fuels, helping NYC lead the way in climate resilience.

A Final Solar Energy Fact

Solar isn’t just about saving money but about shaping a more sustainable and resilient NYC. With incentives, advanced design solutions like canopies, and smarter financing, solar is accessible to more New Yorkers than ever.

Ready to lower your energy bills and join the movement? Talk to Mpower Solar today and see how much you can save.