Exploring the cost of solar panels in Florida

Florida boasts as the Sunshine State, with not less than 237 days a year. Consequently, it means that Florida has extensive solar potential. This potential can be utilised to provide clean renewable energy to households and businesses. 

The same leads us to the question – Is Florida solar worth it? Let’s discuss the cost of solar panels in Florida implication, incentives, and how to start utilising Florida's solar energy. We, however, believe that by the end of it all, you will see why solar panels are a smart choice in Florida.

How much can you save with solar in Florida? 

Given that Florida is aptly named the Sunshine State, you probably expect that Florida’s solar power potential is more than just great. You’d be right. 

According to SEIA’s latest Solar Market Insight Report for the Solar Energy Industries Association, Florida ranks 2nd in the country for solar, with 2,764 megawatts installed during the first three quarters of 2023. That’s behind first-place California with 3,216 MW and ahead of third-place Texas with 2,517 MW.

Cost of solar panels in Florida:

Before subsidies, the average cost of a solar system in Florida was $3.31 per watt, or $16.550 per kilowatt, which is more expensive than the $2.85 per watt, or $14.250 per kilowatt, national average for the United States. A 5 kW solar system in Florida costs $11.585 net once the $30 per kilowatt federal tax credit is taken into account.

Benefits of installing solar panels in Florida: 

Florida residents can benefit from several financial incentives, such as the federal solar tax deduction, which provides for a 30% deduction of installation costs from federal taxes. Solar panels in Florida have multiple advantages.

Solar installations are exempt from both property and sales taxes, so the value that solar chargers add to your house won't raise your local taxes, and you won't have to pay sales tax on the solar system itself.

This policy enables owners of solar panels to obtain credits for energy produced,  which can be applied toward the reduction of electricity expenses.

Since solar panels use the sun's rays to generate free electricity, they dramatically lower power bills. This is especially true in states like Florida, where sunny days are plentiful.

Impact on the ecosystem: By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, solar energy helps protect Florida's natural ecosystem. It is a clean, renewable resource.

In conclusion:
For homes hoping to reduce costs and contribute to a better future, installing solar panels is a wise investment given these advantages and Florida's sunny climate.