In recent years, the adverse effects of climate change from fossil fuel emissions have become increasingly evident. Consequently, reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the energy sector through renewable energy has emerged as a central goal of climate conservation efforts. Urban areas are especially critical for this transition, with cities contributing to over two thirds of global energy consumption. However, the adoption of solar energy, a scalable renewable resource, has remained slow in many cities, particularly New York City, because of non-technical urban limitations. This study examines how these limitations such as permitting issues, building infrastructure, and zoning regulations influence solar energy adoption in New York City and whether these limitations disproportionately affect lower-income communities. To investigate this question, the research will synthesize academic literature and publicly available datasets from sources such as NYSERDA and NYC Open Data. Primarily, it will use interviews with residents across eight neighborhoods (Upper West Side, Harlem, Astoria, Long Island City, Flushing, Jackson Heights, Cobble Hill, and Williamsburg) to document lived experiences of permitting and zoning barriers that datasets and surveys often fail to capture. In addition, through a potential on-site placement with a solar installation company, I will gain insight into the permitting and logistical challenges that inform solar project development. I expect to find that permitting complexity and urban infrastructure increase installation time and cost, contributing to adoption trends that align with neighborhood income levels. By identifying policies related to adoption disparity, this research aims to raise awareness of barriers limiting equitable solar access.