Going solar is a smart move and a huge investment. Solar panel installations in Florida continue to increase in popularity because of the state’s sufficient sunlight supply and incentives for switching to solar energy. However, solar panels may not be suitable for every home or business owner in Florida. Here are some things to consider before going solar.
PPA vs Buying
You may want to consider entering a PPA (power purchase agreement) if you do not have enough money to pay upfront for the solar panel installation. Under this arrangement, the solar company retains ownership of the panels and system while you pay them an agreed-upon rate for the electricity you use from it. The good news is that you do not have to worry about installation or routine maintenance costs. On the downside, you will not enjoy the benefits of the savings provided by tax credits and won’t experience as much long-term savings as those who purchase their panels.
HOA Considerations
Before installing your solar panels, you will need to get approvals and permits from local authorities. Most homeowner associations (HOAs) have specific requirements for solar panel installation. You could face legal action for failing to obtain the required approvals before beginning the installation process.
Roof Condition and Size
The size of your roof will dictate the number of solar panels you can install. On average, you will require roughly 200 square feet of roof to install 13 solar panels. More important than the roof size is the age of your roof. If you need a new roof in the next ten years or less, consider doing so before installing your solar panels.
Incentives and Tax Credits
While Florida has no solar panel rebates, the tax credits and incentives in the state can make your solar installation more affordable. Under Florida’s Solar and CHP Sales Tax Exemption, for example, homeowners and business owners do not pay the 6% sales tax on solar panels.
Net metering is also permitted in Florida. Utility clients who generate excess solar energy can sell Renewable Energy Credits to the solar panel provider. The credits can either be paid out or applied to their energy bills over the next year.
Amount of Sunlight
For solar panels to work efficiently, they need a location with wide sunlight coverage. Just because Florida experiences an average of 237 sunny days yearly, doesn’t mean your location is a prime spot for solar panels. Check to see how much sunlight your home or business receives during peak hours when contemplating going solar. If your property is in an area that doesn’t enjoy long parts of sunlight over the year, then solar panels may not work for you.
Current Energy Usage
Knowledge is power, and having a clear understanding of your power use in your home or business is vital when weighing the financial feasibility of solar energy. Evaluating your current energy usage can help you know how much solar energy you need to generate to meet your energy needs. It is important to work with an expert provider who can help you assess your energy needs and offer accurate cost estimates and expected savings.
Possibility of Adding Battery Storage
Different utility companies have different rules about net metering and selling surplus energy back to the grid. Often, when solar panels harvest more energy than the household or business can consume, the utility grid offers tax credits for the extra energy. Otherwise, you can consider storing the excess energy on batteries for later use when there’s no adequate sunlight or your energy demand increases.
Solar Contractor’s Credentials
When selecting a solar panel contractor, make sure they have the required license and certifications. Equally important, choose a provider with a proven track record in the solar industry. Experienced contractors have a good understanding of local technology, legal requirements and best practices for installation.
Go Solar With Solar Optimum
Deciding to go solar is a big decision that takes a lot of thoughtful consideration. At Solar Optimum, we help homeowners and businesses across the Florida region build efficient solar systems, helping them transition toward renewable energy. Contact us today or download our Guide to Living With Solar to learn more about considerations to make when going solar.
