Florida Solar Panels
Pricing & Installation Data

Find out if solar panels are right for your home in Florida.

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Solar Panels in Florida

Solar panels can be spotted all over The Sunshine State on roofs of homes and businesses alike. The state’s abundant sunlight and supportive energy policies make it a prime location for solar for any type of customer. Solar farms to residential rooftops, with the state’s commitment to renewable energy and the cost of solar falling, it’s not just a viable option, it is an increasingly appealing one.

While solar power and other renewable energy options are booming in popularity, there is much to consider. Whether you are trying to reduce your carbon footprint or your utility bills we’ll walk you through the most important factors to help you make the best energy decision.

Cost of Solar in Florida

The average price for a home solar panel system in Florida is $15,480 for a 6kW system or about $2.58 per watt. Systems will vary depending on the solar installation company the types of solar panels you choose and the size of your system. When shopping for solar panels you should consider getting multiple quotes from various installers.

Average Cost
6 kW System
Average Cost
10 kW System
Estimated
Tax Credit
(10 kW System)
Average
Cost/Watt
U.S.Average$18,771$31,285$9,385.50$3.13
Florida$15,720$26,200$7,860$2.62
U.S.Average$18,771$31,285$9,385.50$3.13
Most Costly State(Michigan)$22,680$37,800$11,340$3.78
Least Costly State(Arizona)$14,640$24,400$7,320$2.44

Costs by Solar System Size in Florida

For most, the ideal solar system size is the sweet spot between price and capacity. The goal is to generate enough electricity to cover your home's demand while keeping overall costs low as possible.

I.E. Get the best bang for your buck.

System SizeSystem CostCost After Federal Tax Credit
5 kW$13,100$8,785
6 kW$15,720$10,542
7 kW$18,340$12,299
8 kW$20,960$14,056
10 kW$26,200$17,570

Pros and Cons of Solar in Florida

Unfortunately, nothing is perfect - including solar. To avoid buyer's remorse, you should think about all the pros and cons associated with installing solar equipment on your home. Then weigh them against each other to decide if it makes sense for you.

Everyone has their own opinion on how to interpret and weigh the pros and cons against each other. Our goal is to present the most common pros and cons and let you make your own choice.

Florida Solar Pros

  • Reduce or eliminate electric bills
  • Energy independence from the grid
  • Reduce your carbon footprint
  • Increase home value (4.1% on average)
  • Florida ranks 8th in peak daily sunlight hours in the U.S.
  • Net metering is available is a majority of the state
  • There are many solar buy-back plans available

Florida Solar Cons

  • Not viable for all roofs or homes
  • Installation costs
  • Financial liability
  • No statewide solar tax credit

EnergyBot's Take

Florida has an ideal climate for solar panels. Plenty of sunlight during peak energy usage seasons. But, electricity costs are relatively high compared to other states so in most cases solar panels in Florida deliver substantial savings.

Most homes will realize a slightly more expensive investment over 25 years versus buying electricity traditionally. However, if you prioritize energy independence and renewable energy, a near-breakeven scenario might be perfect for your situation.

If you are on the fence you can use this tool to get an accurate cost breakdown for your home based on your historical energy usage.

Leasing vs Buying Solar Panels in Florida

There are several ways you can purchase and/or finance your solar panel installation in Florida. Your goals and financial situation will dictate which option is best for you.

Cash Purchase

The most straightforward option. You pay upfront for the entire cost of the rooftop solar system. No interest, and fewer headaches, but many people are hesitant about spending several tens of thousands of dollars out of pocket.

Solar Loan

The most common method for buying solar systems. Like many other types of large purchases, you can finance your solar system through a bank or solar loan provider.

This sounds great, and many other solar loan salespeople will leverage the low payment to justify the costs. You will likely hear something like "You pay $250 a month on your electric bill, with a solar loan you will pay $200 and have free electricity."

Do your due diligence before you sign on the dotted line. There are many horror stories of variable loan terms, ballooning interest rates, and harsh missed payment penalties.

Solar Lease

Leasing solar panels generally involves less money out of pocket upfront. But, it's important to note - you do not own your solar energy system. You essentially renting the solar system. A solar provider will install the equipment and charge you a fixed monthly fee.

Most solar lease contracts last for a couple of decades, during which time the provider will keep an eye on the system's hardware and performance. At the end of your lease, you can choose to:

  • Renew your lease agreement
  • Purchase the system
  • End your lease agreement

Solar leases can be complicated. Not all are bad, but in many cases the lease terms in not in favor of the buyer. Before you decide on a solar lease make sure to read your contract thoroughly. If you don't understand something, ask an expert.

Power Purchase Agreements

A power purchase agreement (PPA) is a financial agreement where a solar company will design and install a solar system on your home or business with little or no cost upfront. Instead of paying a monthly fee like a lease, the agreement includes a fixed price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity generated.

For example, you agree to pay $0.12 per kWh of electricity generated for the next 20 years. The solar company will install and maintain your system and sell the power back to you that you use. They may also collect payment for any additional energy they put back into the grid.

Just like a lease, you do not own the panels. When the contract is up, they will either be removed or your contract may have other terms for you to buy or renew your power purchase agreement.

Power purchase agreements can be complicated. Before you sign make sure you review the contract and if possible have an expert in power purchase agreements review the details.

Florida Solar Incentives

In addition to the 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit, you may be eligible for solar incentives that could significantly reduce the cost of solar panel installation. Some incentives are statewide and others are more local. Your city, utility, or other local company could offer hundreds or thousands of dollars in incentives to install solar systems.

This table shows the available incentives in Florida. But, just because you don't see it here doesn't mean it doesn't exist. Check with your local utility for other potential incentives.

Here are some additional Florida specific websites to search incentives and other resources:

Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC): Not only does the FSEC offer energy training, testing, and data analysis. It also offers resources for financing options and where to find state incentives.

Florida Power and Light (FPL): FPL is the largest power utility company in Florida. They occasionally provide rebates to their consumers. Check their website for updates.

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Per their website, “The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services supports and promotes Florida agriculture, protects the environment, safeguards consumers, and ensures the safety and wholesomeness of food.” Check out their site to find grants, information, programs, and more.

Name State Category Type
Florida Solar Easement and Access Laws FL Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Access Policy
PV Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Orlando Utilities Commission - Net Metering FL Regulatory Policy Net Metering
Solar and CHP Sales Tax Exemption FL Financial Incentive Sales Tax Incentive
SunBuilt Gold FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Solar Contractor Licensing FL Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Contractor Licensing
New Smyrna Beach Utilities - Net Metering FL Regulatory Policy Net Metering
DSM Programs Incorporating Renewables FL Regulatory Policy Other Policy
Energy Conservation in Public Buildings FL Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
JEA - Solar Incentive Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
PV for Schools Educational Enhancement Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
JEA - Net Metering FL Regulatory Policy Net Metering
Gainesville Regional Utilities - Solar Water Heating Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Fuel Mix Disclosure FL Regulatory Policy Generation Disclosure
Interconnection of Small Photovoltaic Systems FL Regulatory Policy Interconnection
Tampa Electric - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Tampa Electric - Commercial/Industrial Indoor Lighting Energy Efficiency Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Tampa Electric - Commercial Cooling Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Central Florida Gas - Residential Home Builder Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Central Florida Gas - Residential Water Heater Retention Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Central Florida Gas - Space Conditioning for Residential Applications FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Central Florida Gas - Space Conditioning for Commercial Applications FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Clearwater Gas System - Builder Sales Energy Efficiency Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Florida City Gas - Residential Appliance Replacement Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Duke Energy Florida - Smart $aver Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Progress Energy Florida - Commercial Building Envelope Improvements Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Progress Energy Florida - Commercial Ceiling Insulation Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Progress Energy Florida - High Efficiency Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Duke Energy Florida - Home Energy Check Audit and Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Florida City Gas - Residential Builder Energy Efficiency Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Florida Power and Light - Business Energy Efficiency Rebates FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Gainesville Regional Utilities - Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Gainesville Regional Utilities - Business Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Gainesville Regional Utilities - Natural Gas Appliance Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Solar Energy System Incentives Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Renewable Energy and Energy-Efficient Technologies Grants Program FL Financial Incentive Grant Program
Renewable Energy Production Tax Credit FL Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Sales Tax Exemption Week for Energy Efficient Products FL Financial Incentive Sales Tax Incentive
City of Tallahassee Utilities - Grant Programs FL Financial Incentive Grant Program
City of Tallahassee Utilities - Solar Loans FL Financial Incentive Loan Program
Orlando Utilities Commission - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Orlando Utilities Commission - Home Energy Efficiency Fix-Up Program FL Financial Incentive Grant Program
Clay Electric Cooperative, Inc - Energy Conservation Loans FL Financial Incentive Loan Program
Gainesville Regional Utilities - Solar-Electric (PV) System Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Duke Energy Florida - SunSense Solar Water Heating with EnergyWise FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Lakeland Electric - Net Metering FL Regulatory Policy Net Metering
Florida Keys Electric Cooperative - Net Metering FL Regulatory Policy Net Metering
Lakeland Electric - Solar Water Heating Program FL Financial Incentive Other Incentive
City of Tallahassee Utilities - Net Metering FL Regulatory Policy Net Metering
Clay Electric Cooperative, Inc - Energy Smart Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Clay Electric Cooperative, Inc - Energy Smart Solar Water Heater Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Gainesville Regional Utilities- Low-Interest Energy Efficiency Loan Program FL Financial Incentive Loan Program
Gulf Power - Residential Energy Efficiency Programs FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
City of Tallahassee Utilities - Solar Water Heating Rebate FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
City of Tallahassee Utilities - Ceiling Insulation Rebate FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Florida Power and Light - Sun Funds Solar-Electric (PV) Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Orlando Utilities Commission - Solar Programs FL Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
New Smyrna Beach - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Orlando Utilities Commission - Residential Solar Loan Program FL Financial Incentive Loan Program
Net Metering FL Regulatory Policy Net Metering
Interconnection Standards FL Regulatory Policy Interconnection
Florida Power and Light - Residential Energy Efficiency Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Capital Investment Tax Credit for Clean Energy FL Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
City of Ocala Electric Utility - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
City of Tallahassee Utilities - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
CHELCO - Net Metering FL Regulatory Policy Net Metering
Clay Electric Cooperative, Inc - Solar Thermal Loans FL Financial Incentive Loan Program
Miami-Dade County - Targeted Jobs Incentive Fund FL Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Miami-Dade County - Green Building Expedited Plan Review FL Financial Incentive Green Building Incentive
Gulf Power - Solar Thermal Water Heating Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Kissimmee Utility Authority - Residential & Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Kissimmee Utility Authority - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Gainesville Regional Utilities - Solar Feed-In Tariff FL Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Renewable Energy Equipment Sales Tax Exemption FL Financial Incentive Sales Tax Incentive
New Smyrna Beach - Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Tampa Electric - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
JEA - New Home Build Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Lakeland Electric - Residential Conservation Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Lakeland Electric - Commercial Conservation Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Beaches Energy Services - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Fort Pierce Utilities Authority - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Lake Worth Utilities - Energy Conservation Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Florida Public Utilities - Residential HVAC Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Florida Public Utilities - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Florida Public Utilities (Gas) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
New Smyrna Beach - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Florida PACE programs FL Financial Incentive PACE Financing
Florida - Residential Energy-Efficient Appliance Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Atlanta Gas Light - Residential Energy Smart Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Orange County - OCHEEP! FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
City of Tallahassee Utilities - Efficiency Loans FL Financial Incentive Loan Program
Ocala Utility Services - Solar Hot Water Heating Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Sarasota County - Get Energy Smart Retrofit Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Volusia County - Green Building Program FL Financial Incentive Green Building Incentive
Miami-Dade County - Renovation for Energy Efficiency Loan (REEL) Program FL Financial Incentive Loan Program
Beaches Energy Services - Solar Water Heating Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Central Florida Gas - Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
City of Fort Lauderdale - Smart Watts Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Energy Efficiency Goals FL Regulatory Policy Energy Efficiency Resource Standard
Gulf Power - Solar PV Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
JEA - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
JEA - Commercial Energy Efficiency Loan Program FL Financial Incentive Loan Program
Progress Energy Florida - SunSense Residential PV Incentive Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Lake Worth Utilities - Residential Solar Water Heating Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
JEA - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
JEA - ShopSmart Financial Assistance FL Financial Incentive Loan Program
Tampa Electric - Solar Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Florida Power and Light - Solar Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Lake County - Go Green Get Green Energy Efficiency Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Miami-Dade County - Sustainable Buildings Program FL Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Miami-Dade County - Florida PACE Finance Programs FL Financial Incentive PACE Financing
Gulf Power - Commercial Energy Efficiency EarthCents Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Solar and Energy Loan Fund (SELF) FL Financial Incentive Loan Program
Broward County - Energy Sense Appliance Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Copy of Lake Worth Utilities - Energy Conservation Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Broward County - Green Building Policy FL Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Duke Energy Florida - SunSense Solar PV Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Town of Cutler Bay - Financing Initiative for Renewable and Solar Technology (FIRST) FL Financial Incentive PACE Financing
City of Longwood - Raising Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Duke Energy Florida - SunSense Schools Program FL Financial Incentive Other Incentive
Miami-Dade County - Residential Energy Star Appliance Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Miami-Dade County - Commercial Energy Star Appliance Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Fort Pierce Utilities Authority - Solar Water Heating Rebate FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
City of Lauderhill - Green Building Policy FL Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
City of Lauderhill - Revolving Loan Program FL Financial Incentive Loan Program
Florida Keys Electric Cooperative - Residential Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Renewable Energy Property Tax Exemption FL Financial Incentive Property Tax Incentive
Broward County Online Solar Permitting FL Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Permitting Standards
City of Winter Park Energy Conservation Rebates & Incentive Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Orlando Utilities Commission - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Property Tax Abatement for Renewable Energy Property FL Financial Incentive Property Tax Incentive
Florida Public Utilities (Gas) - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebates FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Florida Public Utilities - Solar Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
City of Jacksonville - Sustainable Building Program Ordinance FL Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
City of Jacksonville - Downtown Rooftop Regulations FL Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Access Policy
City of Miami - Green Building Density Bonus FL Financial Incentive Green Building Incentive
City of Jacksonville - Downtown Rooftop Regulations FL Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Access Policy
City of Miami - Green Building Density Bonus FL Financial Incentive Green Building Incentive
Hillsborough County - Solar and Wind Standards FL Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Permitting Standards
Miami-Dade County - Solar System Permitting FL Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Permitting Standards
Miami-Dade County - Green Lodging Program FL Regulatory Policy Green Power Purchasing
Beaches Energy Services - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
JEA Battery Incentive Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Florida Keys Electric Cooperative - Solar Loan Program FL Financial Incentive Loan Program
Lakeland Electric - Residential Energy Efficiency Loan Program FL Financial Incentive Loan Program
Duke Energy - Park and Plug Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Kissimmee Utility Authority - Electric Vehicle Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Orlando Utilities Commission - Electric Vehicle Rebate Program FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Orlando Utilities Commission - Efficiency Delivered® FL Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Tax-Exempt Financing for Green Buildings, Renewable Energy & Brownfield Redevelopment US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Conservation Security Program (CSP) Production Incentive US Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Business Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Federal Excise Tax Exemption for Gasohol US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Exemption
Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS) US Financial Incentive Corporate Depreciation
Energy Star Financing and Mortgages US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA Rural Housing Service Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Corporate) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Exemption
Renewable Energy Production Incentive (REPI) US Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Small Business Administration Loan Programs US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Energy-Efficient Mortgages US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs - Funding Opportunities US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Green Power Purchasing Goal for Federal Government US Regulatory Policy Green Power Purchasing
Energy-Efficient Commercial Buildings Tax Deduction US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Deduction
Energy-Efficient New Homes Tax Credit for Home Builders US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Energy-Efficient Appliance Manufacturing Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Veterans Housing Guaranteed and Insured Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Federal Appliance Standards US Regulatory Policy Appliance/Equipment Efficiency Standards
Energy Goals and Standards for Federal Agencies US Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs) US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs) US Financial Incentive Loan Program
U.S. Department of Treasury - Renewable Energy Grants US Financial Incentive Grant Program
USDA - High Energy Cost Grant Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
USDA - Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Product Manufacturing Assistance Program US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Repowering Assistance Biorefinery Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Title I Property Improvement Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Development Assistance (EA/REDA) Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Fannie Mae Green Financing – Loan Program US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Qualified Commercial Clean Vehicle Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit (Corporate) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit (Personal) US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Previously-Owned Clean Vehicle Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit

Florida Solar Companies

There are hundreds of solar companies in Florida. From solar installers to solar loan providers, and manufacturers. Each is a piece of the puzzle to help you get outfitted with solar panels.

To make things simple, EnergyBot works directly with 3 of the largest solar companies to give you a comprehensive view of the market.

The solar companies we partner with:

  • Project Solar - A nationwide provider of solar panel systems that has a non-sales-oriented approach to building your system. They build your system from their central office and send a local company to complete the solar panel installation.
  • EnergySage - The largest online solar installation network. They work with thousands of installers to help you find the perfect solar system for your home. With thousands of successful solar installations, they can give you a range of bids and pricing options.
  • Tesla - Brains behind some of the most cutting-edge technology in the automotive industry, Tesla also offers sleek and powerful solar systems and battery systems.

We believe comparing these three names in the solar industry will give you the info you need to decide if solar panels are right for you.

Before You Install Solar Panels

Just because solar is a popular discussion right now, doesn’t mean it makes sense for everyone. It is still a large and expensive decision. Installing solar has great financial and environmental benefits but it won’t feel beneficial if you run into issues. Along with studying a 20-year cost comparison for your home, read some more tips to keep in mind when mulling over your decision on your installer, system design, and financial plan.

  • What are the long-term savings and payback period for installing a solar panel system?
  • How will installing solar panels impact my home's value?
  • What is the system’s Return on Investment (ROI)?
  • Are there any specific design or aesthetic considerations for solar panel installation?
  • How do I weigh the environmental benefits against the costs of installation?
  • What are the specific terms and conditions for the installer?

Florida’s Vetoed NEM Bill 741

Recently, Florida House Bill 741 threatened to dismantle net metering. Stripping homeowners and businesses of this credit from 2024 onwards would have made solar power less economically viable. However, the bill was vetoed by Governor DeSantis, saving the state’s solar industry from collapse.

While net metering is in place for Florida today, it may not be for long. Florida Power & Light (FPL) are the ones who wrote the bill. FPL own large solar generation sites and continue increasing rates, even though operating existing solar facilities cost almost nothing. Advocating for public participation in protecting net metering from future legislative challenges is important to maintain to protect energy resiliency and independence. 

Why Trust EnergyBot

We have helped thousands of customers find electricity plans for their home or business. And we are pretty darn good at it, with over 1,000 5-Star reviews we know how to help you stay powered up.

Now using the same one-of-kind technology and platform we are helping consumers in Florida decide if solar is right for them. You will notice that sometimes our numbers make solar look less attractive. That's not by accident. We believe you should have full transparency during the solar purchasing process.

We aren't here to sell you something. We are here to help you make the best energy decision for your home or business.

Florida Solar FAQs

The cost of solar panel installation in Florida can vary significantly based on a number of factors, including the size and type of the system, the complexity of the installation, your solar installer, and the specific location. However, the average cost of solar panels in the U.S. was about $3.13 per watt, before any incentives or tax credits.

A typical residential solar system is usually around 8 kilowatts (8,000 watts), but varies based on energy use and the size of the house. The US average cost for a 6 kW system is $18,771 and the US average cost for a 10 kW system is $31,285, before incentives.

The number of solar panels you would need depends on a variety of factors such as:

  1. Your home's energy consumption: The first step is to calculate your household's energy use. You can do this by looking at your electricity bills to see how much electricity you use in a year, usually measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). The average U.S. home uses around 10,400 kWh per year, but this can vary widely based on the size of your home, the efficiency of your appliances, and your personal habits.
  2. The amount of sunlight your location receives: This can vary depending on where you live. For example, if you live in a place that has many sunny days like Arizona, you might require fewer solar panels compared to someone living in a place with less sunlight like Seattle.
  3. The efficiency of the solar panels: Not all solar panels are created equal. Some panels can convert sunlight into electricity more efficiently than others. On average, residential solar panels have an efficiency rating between 15-20%. The higher the efficiency, the fewer panels you would likely need to meet your energy needs.
  4. The size of the solar panels: Solar panels also come in different sizes. A common size for residential use is roughly 65 inches by 39 inches. Each panel typically produces around 250 to 400 watts of power, but this can vary.

To give you a rough estimate, let's say you live in a location that receives about 5 hours of peak sunlight per day, your solar panels have an efficiency of 20%, and each panel has a power rating of 300 watts. If your home uses about 10,400 kWh per year, you would divide this by 365 to get your daily energy use (about 28.5 kWh). You would then divide this by the hours of peak sunlight (5 hours), to get your required power output per hour (about 5.7 kW). If each solar panel produces 300 watts (or 0.3 kW), you would divide 5.7 kW by 0.3 to get the number of solar panels you need, which would be about 19 panels.

  • Lower Electricity Bills:
    Once your solar panels are installed, you can generate your own electricity and reduce your reliance on the grid, which can lower your monthly bills.
  • Environmental Benefits:
    Solar energy is clean and renewable, so using it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful pollutants.
  • Increased Home Value:
    Installing solar panels can increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
  • Long-Term Savings:
    While the upfront cost of installing solar energy systems can be high, they can pay for themselves over time through lower energy bills and other savings.
  • Location:
    Homes in areas with lots of sunlight are generally better candidates for solar panels. If your home is shaded or doesn't receive much sunlight, it may not be the best choice.
  • Roof Orientation:
    Ideally, your roof should be facing south to get the most sunlight throughout the day.
  • Roof Condition:
    Your roof should be in good condition and able to support the weight of the solar panels. If your roof needs repairs or replacement, it's best to take care of that before your solar installation.

The installation process for solar panels can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the size of the system and the complexity of the installation.

Your installer should be able to give you an estimated timeline based on your specific project.

Solar panels generally require very little maintenance. However, it's a good idea to have them inspected every few years to ensure they are working properly and to clean off any debris or dirt that may have accumulated on the panels. Most solar panel installers offer maintenance services for an additional fee.

Some skilled DIYers may be able to save some solar installation costs by installing solar equipment themselves. But, any solar installation will require a foundational knowledge of wiring and electricity. There's is a lot that can go wrong, posing a potentially deadly hazard.

Before you try to DIY your system we would recommend getting a quote from a solar installer. You may find that the labor costs of your install is relatively small compared to the cost of the solar equipment itself.

Also, many states require certain permits in order to install the panels to ensure safety. Including a construction permit and an electrical permit. Check out the permit websites for your city before taking on this endeavor.

Miami

From Start to Finish Solar Projects

Tampa

Tempa Solar Checklist

Tempa Solar Info

Orlando

Orlando Permit Process

Jacksonville

Jacksonville Permit Process

St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg Permit Process

Fort Lauderdale

Solar Info

Tallahassee

Tallahassee Solar From Start to Finish

West Palm Beach

Expedited Solar Permit Process

Expedited Solar Permit Form

There are two main types of solar panels: Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline. There are pros and cons to both. Either type can produce enough solar power for your home. We recommend getting a recommendation from a solar installer for your home. Depending on your budget, location, and other factors they can recommend the most efficient solar panels for your home.