Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple benefits. Here are some highlights.
- Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is the universe's most abundant clean energy source, meaning you can reduce or eliminate your home's dependence on "traditional" sources.
- Better energy independence: Photovoltaic solar panel systems with energy storage systems operate through blackouts and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on the electrical grid for your safety and comfort.
- Smaller power bills: Generating some or all of your own power will cut power costs long-term. Plus, some states provide net metering programs that make it possible for you to sell your extra energy back to the grid, generating additional credits toward your energy bill.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Alafaya Homeowners?
The state of Florida offers multiple solar incentives to help reduce your solar system costs. Check out a breakdown of eligible solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
All
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
Residential: 100% of the added value
Non-Residential: 80% of the added value
Incentive Type: PACE Financing
Website: floridapace.govIncentive Amount:
Determined locally
Incentive Type: Loan Program
Website: lakelandelectric.comIncentive Amount:
$5,000
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit
Website: ecowatch.comIncentive Amount:
30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.
How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Alafaya
The more comprehensive your company investigation is, the better your solar installation will ultimately function. Consider each of these elements in your service provider search.
Licensing and Training
Once an electrical professional in Florida has four years of field experience, including one year as an apprentice, they can pass two tests to earn a CV license with the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board. Florida also allows electrical contractors to install solar panels, but they may need to subcontract some tasks to a licensed roofer. Solar companies can also pursue certifications from trade groups and standards organizations. The most prestigious ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.
Cost of Solar Panels in Alafaya
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.
Additional components, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will increase your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar company provides these add-ons, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's essential for you.
You can expect to pay about $16,050 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Alafaya. Check the table in this section to get an idea of how much Alafaya solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,135 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $885 |
Thin-Film | $517 |
Solar Battery | $726 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,723 |
Financing Solar Energy in Alafaya
There are a plethora of ways to pay for new solar panels, and the right one will help you decrease overhead. A few of the most common options include loans, cash payments, leases, and power purchase agreements (PPAs). Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most economical choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the second most effective option. As with a car or home loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for valuable solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly fee to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a fluctuating rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in certain circumstances. Ask each provider you're considering about the payment plans it offers. A representative can help you determine the best option for your pocketbook.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Alafaya.
A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to new residential solar equipment purchased through 2032. Additional incentives may be available through city and state governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.
Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
---|---|
1 kW | 1.7 years |
2 kW | 3.5 years |
5 kW | 8.6 years |
10 kW | 17.3 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Alafaya
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
How common is solar energy in Alafaya?
Should I expect a boost in my property value after going solar?
How long does the photovoltaic installation process take?
How do I care for my new solar system?
How long does it take to pay back a solar loan in Alafaya?
How can I boost my solar panels' performance?
- optimize the panels' position with your solar installer
- regularly clean your solar panels
- upgrade to a more efficient inverter trim or cut down trees in the way of your panels
- use energy-efficient appliances
What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?
You might look into a PPA if you don’t want to be responsible for maintenance and don’t want to invest in a system, but keep in mind you won’t be paying toward ownership or be able to access any solar financial incentives. Many solar experts don’t recommend PPAs. Our guide covers other financing options above.
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