Solar energy is one of the most promising and sustainable sources of renewable energy in the world. However, there are still many myths and misconceptions around solar panels that prevent some people from fully embracing this technology.
Despite solar energy’s rapid growth and proven reliability, misinformation and common myths still exist. Misleading advertisements, confusion around federal and state solar incentives, and outdated assumptions all can prevent homeowners from seeing the potential savings and sustainability solar brings.
Myth #1: You can go solar for free
Myth #2: Solar doesn’t make sense after the 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit ends
Myth #3: Solar only works in warm, sunny climates
Myth #4: Solar will damage your roof
Myth #5: Solar makes it harder to sell your home
Here we will debunk some of the most common myths about solar panels with the goal of encouraging more homeowners and business owners to switch to solar energy and embrace a more sustainable future.
Myth #1: You can go solar for free
Fact: Solar isn’t free – but it can be very affordable, and pay for itself over time.
Some companies advertise “free solar,” but those offers usually involve leases or power purchase agreements (PPAs), where a third party owns the system and sells you the power it produces. Leasing solar can be a lower cost way to still take advantage of solar, however leasing will limit the potential savings you can earn in the long run.
Trusted solar platform, EnergySage, states, “You may come across scammy advertisements about ‘free solar panels from the government.’ This isn’t true. While you can go solar for $0 down with a solar loan or lease, federal and state governments do not provide free solar panel installations” (2).
When you purchase your solar system – either outright or through financing – you own the panels, the energy they generate, and the full value of your investment. That means you get the tax credits, monthly savings, and higher home value that come with true solar ownership.
Solar ownership allows you to maximize your long-term savings, however leasing or PPAs can be a great option for some – especially if you’re unable to purchase or want to avoid a high upfront cost. Leasing will deliver immediate savings on your electricity bills! The main downside with leasing solar is that while you are still saving, you will save less overall than if you purchased the solar.
Myth #2: Solar doesn't make sense after the 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit ends
Fact: Solar still makes great financial sense – even without incentives. The 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit helped make solar more affordable through the end of this year, but it’s far from the only reason to go solar.
Even without federal or state rebates, solar panels continue to pay for themselves over time through lower electric bills and long-term savings. Incentives simply shorten the payback period. As utility rates keep rising, owning your energy remains one of the best ways to protect your household from future costs. And with New York State incentives still going strong, there are still big incentives for solar in New York.
Rising electricity costs:
According to the ICF Climate Center, residential customers in the U.S. could expect electricity rates to increase by 15% to 40% by 2030. By 2050 it’s expected some rates could even double (3). New Yorkers are paying some of the highest electricity rates in the country, and major utility providers are still announcing more rate hikes.
According to EnergySage, “The forces driving electricity prices higher show no signs of abating. Data centers powering artificial intelligence are driving unprecedented electricity demand, with consumption expected to increase 130% by 2030. The Energy Department projects data centers will use more electricity than households for the first time ever next year, putting extreme pressure on our aging power grid” (2).
Learn more about coming utility rate hikes in our article, “Fight Skyrocketing Utility Bills with Solar”.
Decreasing solar prices:
According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), photovoltaic (PV) system prices have decreased over 70% since 2010, with ongoing improvements in manufacturing, installation, and efficiency reducing costs even further (4).
Solar costs continue drastically decreasing. EnergySage data shows the average residential solar system cost in the U.S. decreased from $3.86 per watt in 2014 to roughly $2.53 per watt in 2025 – the lowest price on record (5).
New York State solar incentives and savings:
Beyond just the Federal Solar Tax Credit, New York State has great incentives and rebates that can help you maximize your savings.
The NYSERDA NY-Sun Program offers incentives through a Megawatt Block Incentive program, offering savings on a decreasing $ per watt. New York State also has a State Solar Tax Credit of up to 25% off of your system cost, maximum $5,000 savings, one of the best savings within the U.S.
“Losing the 30% federal tax credit undeniably makes solar more expensive upfront – about $9,000 more for the average system. But with electricity rates rising faster than general inflation, equipment costs continuing their downward trajectory, and climate-driven grid instability increasing, the fundamental value proposition of solar remains strong” (2).
And combined with net metering, which lets you sell back your excess energy generation to earn credits that you can then use during times such as winter when your system may underproduce. Between all of these factors, New York State has great conditions for maximum savings with solar.
Myth #3: Solar only works in warm, sunny climates
Fact: Solar panels work efficiently in nearly any climate. Many people think solar only performs well in hot, sunny regions – but panels generate electricity from light, not heat.
In fact, solar systems often perform better in cooler temperatures – extreme heat can actually decrease panel efficiency. Even on cloudy or snowy days, they continue producing power from indirect sunlight.
Additionally, New York State offers net metering, which allows you to send any excess energy generated back to the grid – earning you energy credits! These credits can then be applied to offset your electricity usage if solar production is lower during winter months. After your first year with solar you’ll be able to best see how your production and consumption balance out throughout the year!
Read more about how solar panels produce in the winter in our article, Solar in the Winter: Facts and Myths.
Myth #4: Solar will damage your roof
Fact: A professionally installed solar system won’t harm your roof.
Some homeowners may worry that panels could cause roof leaks or structural issues, but reputable installers use specialized, weatherproof solar mounting systems that help protect your roof, not damage it.
Site Assessments and Roof Inspections:
Before installation, your roof is inspected by our team to ensure it’s in good condition. If our site assessors determine that your roof is not ready for solar, they may even recommend you redo your roof before proceeding with solar. This is so that you won’t have to pay for a removal and reinstallation soon down the line. At Kasselman Solar, we do offer R&R for our customers if you do need to replace your roof later on, however we recommend you get your roof prepared before solar.
Solar panels are designed to be installed on a variety of roof types. In fact, once installed, the panels actually shield your roof from the elements – including sun, snow, and rain – helping extend its lifespan. This is especially helpful if your roof is direct south facing as the panels can protect the roof from the sun while generating energy.
Quality Guaranteed:
The NYSERDA Quality Solar Installer Awards are a great method to determine qualified solar installers. At Kasselman Solar, we have received the Quality Solar Installer with Gold Status Award after being named a Quality Solar Installer for three consecutive years, demonstrating our long track record of success.
Myth #5: Solar makes it harder to sell your home
Fact: Solar adds value and appeal when selling your home. Far from being a dealbreaker, solar can help your home sell faster and for more money.
Studies show that buyers are drawn to homes with solar panels because they offer lower monthly bills and sustainable upgrades. As long as you own your system (not lease it), solar is viewed as an asset – one that boosts property value and gives your home a modern, energy-efficient edge in the market.
In fact, looking at a 2025 study by Solar Reviews shows that New York experiences a more than 10% increase in home price with solar – one of the highest increases across the country (1). This could bring an immediate ROI of tens of thousands in home value increase! In fact, one realtor in this article stated, “…Properties that come equipped with solar panels often catch the eye of buyers and tend to sell more quickly. The appeal stems not just from the energy savings over time, but also from the increasing preference for eco-friendly living. (1).” Homes with solar don’t just sell for more, they bring more interest and sell even faster than comparable homes without solar.
At Kasselman Solar, we’re proud to help New Yorkers cut through confusion and go solar with confidence. Solar isn’t free, but it is one of the best long term investments a homeowner or business could make. Even without the 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit, solar is still a great opportunity to save on your utility bills and help the environment.
Solar has many benefits:
Long-Term Savings & Predictable Costs: When you go solar, you can lock in consistent energy costs and shield yourself from rising utility rates.
Energy Independence: With solar you’ll take control of your energy and reduce grid reliance.
Increase Your Property Value: Owning solar increases your home value and buyer appeal, with New York homes seeing an average 10% value increase to comparable homes without solar.
Positive Environmental Impact: Solar is one of the best clean energy options and allows you as an individual to make an impactful difference when using clean energy.
Trusted Experience: With over 3,500 installations and more than a decade of expertise, Kasselman Solar is your local, trusted choice for solar energy.
Get your free custom solar quote from Kasselman Solar today and see the benefits from solar for yourself.
Published: 10/30/2025
- https://www.solarreviews.com/blog/solar-home-value-report
- https://www.energysage.com/news/solar-panel-savings-after-federal-tax-credit
- https://www.icf.com/insights/energy/impact-rapid-demand-growth-us
- https://research-hub.nrel.gov/en/publications/documenting-15-years-of-reductions-in-us-solar-photovoltaic-syste/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
- https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2025/04/29/u-s-residential-solar-falls-to-lowest-ever-2-50-per-watt-said-energysage/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
- https://www.energysage.com/news/solar-prices-hit-all-time-lows-in-2024/
