Updated On

December 31, 2023

Why You Can Trust Us

Today’s Homeowner exists to help you maintain or improve your home safely and effectively. We uphold strict editorial standards and carefully vet the advice and resources referenced in our articles. Click below to learn more about our review process and how we earn money.

Learn More

    All states differ in the number of solar incentives they offer for home and commercial businesses. And while New Jersey isn’t the most solar-friendly state, it does offer a few exemptions when you install a solar system for your New Jersey home. In this detailed guide on New Jersey solar incentives, rebates, and tax credits, we cover the benefits of going solar and the tax rebates and incentives in place for doing so.

    New Jersey is pushing to become more solar-friendly, and its current incentives, paired with the federal ones, can help New Jersey homeowners make solar possible.

    Highest Quality Panels

    4.4

    Installs high-quality Maxeon panels

    Outstanding customer support

    Best-in-class warranty lasts 40 years

    GET QUOTE
    Best Damage Protection

    3.7

    Affordable prices

    Excellent selection of panels and services

    Locations in 22 states

    GET QUOTE
    Best Solar Financing
    blue raven logo

    4.3

    No payments needed for 18 months

    Provides in-house financing

    Offers top brands like LG and Trina

    GET QUOTE
    Best Customer Service

    3.9

    Highly rated customer service

    Provides  24/7 panel monitoring

    Solid A+ rating with the BBB

    GET QUOTE

    Why Go Solar in New Jersey?

    The Garden State gets plenty of sunshine most of the year, but it costs between $15,000 to $32,000 for solar panel installation. So, New Jersey homeowners are having a tough time justifying the cost of a new solar system. However, the high electric rates and the electricity-draining hot summers and cold winters are good reasons many New Jerseyians are good reasons for going solar.

    Now is the time to take full advantage of the generous federal tax incentive before it reduces at the end of 2023. Plus, if you sell your NJ home, the PV system increases your property’s value without adding extra property taxes.

    Besides the electricity and money savings from your solar system, you can also go green and reduce your environmental impact. Plus, making your own electricity in New Jersey puts the power in your own hands.

    New Jersey Solar Cost

    Solar costs vary depending on your home’s energy requirements, the size of the system, and the installation costs. Most New Jersey homeowners pay between $15,000 to $32,000.

    New Jersey doesn’t have the best solar rebates and incentives compared to other states. However, there are a few programs like the TRECs and tax exemptions. With the New Jersey rebates, exemptions, etc., you can save thousands of dollars on a solar system.

    Read our comprehensive article to learn everything about the price of going solar.

    Are you sold on Solar for your home? Get a free quote from local solar installers.

    Get a Solar Quote in 30 Seconds
    On average, homeowners save $5,000–$20,000 with solar panels

    How Much Can You Save on Solar in New Jersey?

    New Jersey doesn’t have a state-level solar incentive, but you can still decrease costs with federal incentives and local rebates. Most New Jersey homeowners save several thousand on a new solar system with federal rebates, tax exemptions, and other credits. Besides federal solar programs, New Jersey residents can save with local initiatives and rebates.

    The Best Solar Incentives, Tax Credits, and Rebates in New Jersey

    IncentiveSummaryEnd Date
    Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC)New Jersey residents are eligible for the Federal Solar Tax Credit and receive a rebate of 30% applied to their next federal tax return. If your solar panel system costs $25,000, you can get a credit for $7,500 when you file your taxes. But, you have to pay the full price upfront. December 31st, 2032
    New Jersey Solar Tax Incentive New Jersey does not charge sales tax on the material costs and installation of PV systems. None
    Net MeteringNet metering lets homeowners use their excess solar energy as a credit on their next electric bill. Most New Jersey power companies offer this to homes and businesses, but it is usually a partial credit. None
    TRECsTransition Renewable Energy Certificates (TRECs) are solar power rebates homeowners and businesses can receive for solar energy production. The rate is $91.20 for homes and $152 for businesses per megawatt-hour. 2035
    New Jersey Property Tax Incentive Property taxes do not increase when you install solar panels. As long as you own your home, your property taxes won’t increase from the added value of a solar panel system.None

    Featured Video: Learn What New Jersey’s TREC Program Is And How They Differ From SRECs


    Before purchasing a renewable energy system, do thorough research. Sometimes, you have to follow specific steps to get the full benefit of a rebate, incentive, or credit. So, you must follow all requirements to save the most money.

    Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

    All 50 states, including New Jersey, are eligible for the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit Initiative(ITC). This program gives homeowners a significant discount on their next federal tax return. The program currently provides a 30% tax credit on the cost of your solar system installation. You pay for the solar energy system upfront and out of pocket, then the IRS pays you back 30% of the total value of your new system when you file your federal taxes. The only downside is that you have to come up with the total price upfront, but you will get it back in a little over a year or less.

    This Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit has been extended through the end of 2032 as a provision of the Inflation Reduction Act. This means that consumers in all states have access to this rebate program for another decade.

    New Jersey Solar Sales Tax Exemption

    While New Jersey does not offer a tax credit, unlike states including California, it does provide a state sales tax exemption on the purchase price of your solar system. Since New Jersey’s sales tax is normally 6.625%, you immediately save this on installation. However, this isn’t a rebate or refund; it isn’t charged to you. This sales tax exemption can save you over $1,000, depending on the total solar system cost.

    New Jersey Solar Property Tax Exemption

    Along with the sales tax exemption, New Jersey also provides a property tax exemption. As you might expect, a solar system increases the overall value of your home. And an increase in your home’s value would normally mean an increase in your property taxes, too, since it is based on a percentage. But, in New Jersey, solar systems are exempt from property taxes. For example, if your home’s value was $500,000 before solar and $525,000 after solar, your property taxes will still be based on $500,000 (not $525,000).

    Read also: Ways to Claim Tax Exemption

    New Jersey Net Metering

    New Jersey has a generous net metering policy. Net metering allows you to return your excess power to the power grid. Then, you can use that surplus as a credit to lower your power bill. Let’s say your home uses 700 kWh in one month, but your solar energy system produces 1,100 kWh. In that case, the extra 400 kWh will be exported to the grid. Then, when you get your energy bill for the month, you’ll receive a credit of 400 kWh. Depending on your power company, municipality, or utility company, you may only get partial credit.

    New Jersey Transition Renewable Energy Certificates (TRECs)

    Along with its tax exemptions, New Jersey offers residents and businesses additional incentive programs on solar systems with Transition Renewable Energy Certificates (TRECs). TRECs replaced SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Certificate) in May 2020 and are based on how much electricity your home’s solar system generates. Here are the basics of how TRECs work:

    • For every megawatt-hour (1 mWh = 1,000 kWh) of solar power you make, you get one TREC.
    • Electric companies and utilities are legally obligated to purchase TRECs due to compliance efforts.
    • Each residential TREC sells for $91.20 and is a flat price for 15 years.

    If your New Jersey home produces ten megawatt-hours (10,000 kWh) of solar generation in a year, you will receive ten renewable energy credits or TRECs at $912.00.

    Commercial New Jersey Solar Incentives

    It is often less difficult for large businesses in New Jersey to get energy savings incentives and set up a net metering policy. Geothermal, PV systems, and other energy efficiency improvements/additions have high installation costs, leaving quite the potential for savings.

    Solar Incentives for Nonprofits and Businesses in New Jersey

    There are no specific solar incentives for nonprofit organizations in New Jersey. However, the state offers a 100% subsidized energy audit for nonprofit agencies to help them become more energy efficient. However, it is important to note that nonprofits and businesses are still eligible for the Federal tax incentive.

    USDA REAP Grant

    The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) from the United States Department of Agriculture assists agricultural producers in converting to renewable energy sources. It helps businesses secure loans for clean energy sources, including solar. The business has to supply its contact information to the USDA to get help with loan financing.

    Besides agricultural producers, small rural businesses are also eligible for REAP’s resources for installing or upgrading renewable energy sources. Businesses that qualify for REAP don’t have to negotiate their funding. Instead, the business just supplies its solar project plan to the USDA, and it provides the available grants.

    Federal Solar Tax Credit for Businesses in New Jersey

    Businesses in New Jersey that install a solar panel system receive a 30% federal tax credit when they file their taxes. If the business invests in a large solar system, this tax incentive can result in tens of thousands in savings.

    The Federal Solar Tax Credit is the best way for homeowners and businesses to save money on solar power. Luckily for home and business owners, this program is set to extend through 2032.

    New Jersey Transition Renewable Energy Certificates (TRECs) Commercial

    As with residents, New Jersey also offers businesses savings on solar systems with TRECs. Like residential solar systems, TRECs for commercial solar systems are based on how much electricity the business creates. However, the credit is higher at $152 per megawatt-hour or energy. Since businesses generally support more solar capacity, these TRECs can stack up quickly.

    Final Thoughts: The Best New Jersey Solar Incentives

    Compared to some other states, New Jersey has some catching up to do with the solar incentives it offers. But, installing a photovoltaic system is a major decision that will keep providing savings yearly. And with solar power becoming more affordable in the United States, there is hope that new incentives will make it even more appealing to New Jerseyans (check out guide to affording clean energy through incentives). However, to get full advantage of the federal tax incentives, you must install a system before it expires.

    Highest Quality Panels

    4.4

    Installs high-quality Maxeon panels

    Outstanding customer support

    Best-in-class warranty lasts 40 years

    GET QUOTE
    Best Damage Protection

    3.7

    Affordable prices

    Excellent selection of panels and services

    Locations in 22 states

    GET QUOTE
    Best Solar Financing
    blue raven logo

    4.3

    No payments needed for 18 months

    Provides in-house financing

    Offers top brands like LG and Trina

    GET QUOTE
    Best Customer Service

    3.9

    Highly rated customer service

    Provides  24/7 panel monitoring

    Solid A+ rating with the BBB

    GET QUOTE

    New Jersey Solar FAQ

    Is solar worth it in New Jersey?

    Yes, solar is worth it in New Jersey. The state has many solar incentives that make going solar a smart investment. Plus, a home solar system can drastically reduce your electricity bill, but coming up with the upfront capital to pay for one can be challenging. In that case, solar loans, tax exemptions, rebates, net metering programs, and the ITC can be helpful.


    How much will my electricity bill go down with solar in New Jersey?

    How much your electricity bill will go down with solar in New Jersey depends on the size of your solar system, how much sunlight your location gets, and your current electricity rates. However, most homeowners see an average electric bill savings of at least 50%. Some homes can even offset their electricity usage completely in the summer months.


    How much does it cost for solar panels in New Jersey?

    Solar panel system prices in New Jersey vary widely depending on the size of your home, how much sunlight your location gets, and the type of solar panels you choose. However, the average cost of a 5kW solar panel system in New Jersey is around $18,000 before any incentives.


    Can you get solar panels for free in New Jersey?

    No, you cannot get solar panels for free in New Jersey. However, several solar incentives can make going solar much more affordable. The most popular incentive is the Federal Solar Tax Credit, which offers a 30% tax credit for the total cost of your solar installation.


    What solar rebates are available in New Jersey?

    The solar rebates available in New Jersey include the Federal ITC rebate (26% of the purchase price) and TRECs. TRECs are based on how much electricity your solar system produces and are currently worth $91.20 and $152 per megawatt-hour for homes and businesses, respectively.


    How many homes in New Jersey have solar panels?

    As of 2022, there are over 157,000 individual solar installations in New Jersey. However, it is impossible to determine what percentage of this is homes versus businesses and solar facilities. However, this number has been snowballing in recent years as solar costs have fallen, and more people are aware of the environmental and financial benefits of going solar.


    Do solar panels increase property taxes in New Jersey?

    No, solar panels don’t increase property taxes in New Jersey. The state offers a Property Tax Exemption for solar panel systems. The solar system will increase the value of your home, but the additional value will be exempt from your property tax calculation.


    How much can you write off for solar panels on taxes in New Jersey?

    The amount you can write off for solar panels on your taxes in New Jersey depends on the solar incentive you are eligible for. The most common incentive is the Federal Solar Tax Credit, which offers a 30% tax credit for solar panel systems for homeowners and for businesses alike.


    Today's Homeowner’s Solar Ranking and Review Methodology

    At Today's Homeowner, transparency and trust are our most important values for the reader. That’s why we took the time to create an objective rating system and score each solar energy company/service according to our methodology.

    Our research team dug deep into the fine print of contracts, combed through more than one hundred customer reviews, and thoroughly investigated each solar energy company’s services, costs, and products. We’ve done the homework for you by researching nearly all the solar energy companies on the market so you can have the information you need to make the best choice for your home.

    We developed a formula to objectively determine the top solar energy firms and give each a score out of 100 based on the following criteria:

    • Plan Options (30): Do they provide various plan options? We looked at the number of plans each solar energy company offered and the flexibility of adjusting the plan.
    • Services (20): How many services are offered in each plan? We looked at whether the company manufactures its solar panels, whether it contracts out installation, and what additional products each company offers.
    • Trust (10): What do customers say after installing solar panels? Does this company offer a guarantee? We considered how satisfied customers are post-service if the company does what it says it will, BBB accreditation, and service guarantees.
    • Prices (10): How reasonable are the costs of the plan or service in comparison to the industry average? We compared the costs of each company to competitors that offer the same solar energy services.
    • Unique perks (10): Does the company offer discounts or special services such as financial incentives, rebates, or a useful mobile app? We looked for extras each company offers that set them apart from the competition.
    • Customer Service (10): How is the customer experience when contacting the company? We considered the speed of response, weekend/holiday availability, and ease of communication through phone calls, email, and online chat functions.
    • Nationwide availability (10): How many states does the company offer its services? Companies that operate nationally and in all zip codes are favored over those with limited availability.
    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Jonathon Jachura

    Jonathon Jachura

    Contributor

    Jonathon Jachura is a two-time homeowner with hands-on experience with HVAC, gutters, plumbing, lawn care, pest control, and other aspects of owning a home. He is passionate about home maintenance and finding the best services. His main goal is to educate others with crisp, concise descriptions that any homeowner can use. Jon uses his strong technical background to create engaging, easy-to-read, and informative guides. He does most of his home and lawn projects himself but hires professional companies for the “big things.” He knows what goes into finding the best service providers and contractors. Jon studied mechanical engineering at Purdue University in Indiana and worked in the HVAC industry for 12 years. Between his various home improvement projects, he enjoys the outdoors, a good cup of coffee, and spending time with his family.

    Learn More

    photo of Lora Novak

    Lora Novak

    Senior Editor

    Lora Novak meticulously proofreads and edits all commercial content for Today’s Homeowner to guarantee that it contains the most up-to-date information. Lora brings over 12 years of writing, editing, and digital marketing expertise. She’s worked on thousands of articles related to heating, air conditioning, ventilation, roofing, plumbing, lawn/garden, pest control, insurance, and other general homeownership topics.

    Learn More

    Top Solar Pros in New Jersey Cities