If you live in Polk County, and you’re tired of high energy bills that keep running up no matter how many lights you turn out, then it may be time to go solar. New panels are an affordable way to power your home, and installation is easier than you think. Here are some tips if you’re interested in trying a new energy source.
Average Cost for Solar Panel Installation in Polk County
The biggest question most people have when considering installing solar panels is how much installation costs. The national average range is $12,000 to $16,000. If you live in Polk County, then it will cost you around $12,183 to install a 5-kW solar panel system before the incentives kick in. While this may seem like a lot upfront, there are several financing options to make it more affordable.
Financing Options for Solar Panel Installation in Polk County
There are several ways you can finance solar panel installation. Cash is a popular option, but it’s not feasible for many customers. There are other choices out there, however.
Solar Power Purchase Agreements
A solar power purchase agreement (PPA) is an agreement between you and whoever installs your solar panels. In this arrangement, you pay a fixed monthly fee and in exchange, get energy produced from the solar panels on your property. You don’t own the panels but get to benefit from them without worrying about the upkeep or large upfront costs to purchase. The downside is that it won’t increase your property value, since the solar panels technically aren’t yours. Another problem is that you are no longer eligible for solar tax credits.
Leasing Solar Panels
Another financing option is to lease your solar panels. Like a PPA, the company you lease the solar panels from owns the equipment, and you get the energy produced. You’ll make fluctuating monthly payments dependent on the amount of energy you use. Leases typically last between 15-20 years, with the option to continue leasing or buy the panels once your term ends.
Florida Solar Incentives
Like other states, Florida offers several solar incentives. These allow you to avoid the 6% state-wide tax that is present on so many other items. Another benefit that you’ll enjoy is a 100% property tax exemption on your solar panels and energy storage units.
Federal Solar Tax Credit
There is a Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which will save you 30% on the price of the installation and any equipment required. While it isn’t a tax refund, it reduces what you owe on taxes.
Net Metering
If you happen to make more energy than you use, there is also the option to sell it back to the electric grid. This is called net metering and is an excellent way to earn some money off of your solar panels. There is no set limit, so if you are careful with your energy usage, it’s possible to earn some decent money from this.
How To Find an Installer in Polk County
Finding an installer for your new solar panels in Polk County is simple enough, but you can save yourself some headaches by doing your homework first. Beware of potential scammers looking to take advantage of you or inexperienced companies that will leave you with poorly installed panels. To ensure the installer you work with is a great one, keep these tips in mind:
- Read online reviews
- Ask about warranties
- Check for licenses/certification
- See how many years they have been in business
Start the Solar Panel Installation Process With Solar Optimum
With so many finance options available, going solar in Polk County is now more affordable than ever. Solar Optimum can guide you through the installation process, starting with an initial consultation, to helping you secure city permits for your panels. Contact us to learn more about the benefits of going solar in Polk County, or download our Ultimate Guide to Going Solar.
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