Frequently Asked Questions
Honest answers to the questions NJ homeowners ask most. No sales pitch.
FAQ list
What happened to the federal solar tax credit?
The 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (Section 25D) was repealed effective January 1, 2026. However, homeowners can still access tax credit benefits through lease or PPA structures, which use the business-side 48E credit. Additionally, NJ's strong state incentives (SREC-II, net metering, tax exemptions) mean solar still makes excellent financial sense. Chris can walk you through the best option for your situation.
How much do solar panels cost in NJ?
A typical 8 kW NJ system costs $20,000–$28,000 before incentives. After the SREC-II program, sales tax exemption, and any local rebates, the net cost typically lands at $15,000–$22,000. Chris shops multiple installers to find your best price.
Is solar still worth it in NJ without the federal tax credit?
Yes. NJ has the strongest state-level solar economics in the country. SREC-II pays $76-95/MWh for 15 years, net metering credits at full retail rate, 0% sales tax, 0% property tax on solar value. Combined with NJ's high electricity rates (25% above national average), solar still pays back in 7-9 years and locks in your rate for 25.
What are SRECs and how do I earn them?
Solar Renewable Energy Certificates are credits NJ utilities buy from solar owners. Under SREC-II (the current program), you earn $76-95 per MWh of electricity your panels generate, paid for 15 years from registration. A typical 8 kW system generates ~10 MWh/year — about $760-950 in annual SREC income.
Will solar increase my property taxes?
No. NJ has a 100% property tax exemption on the added home value from solar. Your home value goes up ~9.9% (Zillow data) but you pay $0 in additional property taxes. This has been NJ law since 1998.
What if I sell my home?
NREL data shows solar homes sell 20% faster and at a premium. If you own the system, it transfers with the home. If you lease/PPA, the contract typically transfers to the buyer (subject to creditworthiness review). Chris helps clients navigate transfer scenarios.
How does a solar broker get paid?
The installer pays Chris a referral fee when you sign — never you. Chris's service is completely free to the homeowner. This is the same model as a mortgage broker: the lender pays the broker, not you.
What's the difference between a lease and a loan?
With a loan, you own the system, take all tax credits, and earn SRECs. With a lease/PPA, the installer owns the system, you pay a fixed monthly amount (lease) or per-kWh (PPA), and they take the tax credits. Both can make sense — Chris reviews the math with you specific to your situation, including watching for escalator clauses.
What are PSEG's new Time-of-Use rates?
Starting June 1, 2026, PSEG introduces TOU pricing: peak hours (4-9pm weekdays) cost $0.31/kWh vs off-peak at $0.21/kWh. Solar + battery storage lets you store your solar production and use it during peak hours, avoiding the higher rate entirely.
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