Quick answer: Solar works in New Jersey’s weather, your HOA generally cannot ban it on a home you own, it does not have to raise your property taxes, and it still pays off for many homes even without the federal tax credit. But panels alone will not keep your lights on in a blackout, and offers from different companies can vary a lot. Here are the seven myths we hear most and what is actually true.
Solar has been around New Jersey for a long time, and so have the rumors about it. Some come from old information, some from neighbors, and some from salespeople. Here is what holds up and what does not.
Myth 1: Solar does not work in New Jersey winters
Solar panels run on daylight, not heat. They actually work well in cool weather. Your system will produce less in December than in July because the days are shorter, but net metering lets the extra power from sunny months build up as credits on your bill to help cover the darker months. Snow on panels usually slides off within a day or two once the sun comes out.
Myth 2: Solar is not worth it now that the tax credit is gone
The 30% federal credit for buyers ended on December 31, 2025, and that does change the math. But New Jersey still pays system owners for the power their panels produce for 15 years, credits extra power on your bill, and exempts solar from sales tax and property tax. For many homes, that is still enough to make solar a smart move. We go deeper in our guide on whether solar is still worth it in New Jersey.
Myth 3: My HOA can stop me from going solar
New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 45:22A-48.2) says a homeowners association cannot ban solar on the roof of a single family home you own, or a townhouse where you are responsible for the roof. Your HOA can set reasonable rules, like where the panels go or who installs them, and it is smart to talk with them early. Condos and homes where the association owns the roof follow different rules.
Myth 4: Solar will raise my property taxes
Solar usually adds value to your home, but New Jersey lets you exclude that value from your property assessment. You do need to file for the exemption with your local tax assessor after the system is installed, so make sure that step does not get skipped.
Myth 5: Solar panels need a lot of upkeep
Panels have no moving parts, and rain does most of the cleaning. Most homeowners just keep an eye on their monitoring app and have the system checked if production drops. What matters more is who stands behind the system: the equipment warranty, the workmanship warranty and whether the installer will still be around to honor them.
Myth 6: My solar panels will keep my power on in a blackout
This one surprises a lot of people. A standard grid connected system shuts off when the grid goes down, so line workers stay safe. If you want power during outages, you need a home battery added to your system. It is worth asking about if outages are common where you live.
Myth 7: All solar companies offer about the same deal
Not even close. Two quotes for the same home can differ in price, panel and inverter brands, warranty length, ways to pay and how much your monthly cost goes up over time. Many homeowners only ever see one offer, from whichever company knocked on the door first.
From the Horizon Home team: We are not here to sell you one brand. Our job is to line up offers from multiple solar companies so you can compare them side by side and pick what is right for your home and budget.
Frequently asked questions
How much sun does a home in New Jersey need for solar?
Most homes with a roof that gets direct sun for a good part of the day, with little shade, are good candidates. A south, east or west facing roof usually works. A free assessment can tell you how much your specific roof can produce.
Do I need a battery with solar in New Jersey?
Not to save money with net metering. A battery is mainly for keeping power on during outages. Whether it is worth the cost depends on how often your area loses power and how important backup is to you.
Can I get solar if my roof is old?
Often it makes sense to replace an older roof first, since panels typically stay on for 25 years or more. Many homeowners handle both projects at the same time.
The bottom line
Most of what holds people back from solar is old or incomplete information. The best way to cut through it is to see real numbers for your own home.
Get your free solar comparison from Horizon Home and see how offers from multiple companies stack up, with no pressure. You can also read our guide on whether to lease or buy solar.
Sources: IRS Residential Clean Energy Credit, New Jersey Clean Energy Program, New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.
