Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy comes with multiple advantages. Let's look at a few of them.
- Lowered energy bills: With a solar array, you produce power without paying the tacked-on costs of grid-connected power. Going off-grid can eliminate your bills completely.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using solar is a surefire way to decrease your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
- Better energy independence: Adding a battery backup lets you have dependable energy during storms and grid outages.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Coral Springs Homeowners?
Florida's public agencies and power companies offer a range of solar incentives to help minimize your solar system costs. Below is a breakdown of applicable 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 Coral Springs
The cost and efficiency of solar panels often rely on which company installed them. Consider each of these elements in your contractor search.
Your solar modules' type will influence how much energy you can produce. Monocrystalline panels cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels offer you a budget panel with a traditional design, but at the cost of less power generation. 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.
You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. By selecting the right ones, you can make your panel array more productive and convenient to use. Not all solar companies provide these extras, so look for a provider that has them if it's crucial for you.
Licensing and Training
Once an electrical professional in Florida has four years of field experience, including one year as an apprentice, they can take two exams to earn a CV license with the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board. The Sunshine State also allows electrical contractors to install solar panels, but they may need to subcontract some tasks to a licensed roofer. Further check a company's website for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), one of the solar sector's most reputed trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.
Financing Options
Choosing the optimal financing plan will impact your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include cash payments, leases, loans, and power purchase agreements. We advise paying with cash or using a solar loan for the best return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also have full ownership of your system and can apply for solar incentives to reduce your total costs. Solar loans are another good option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in installments while still benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) permits you to pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. We usually don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the system and cannot use solar incentives. Ask each installer you're considering about the payment options it offers. A team member can help you determine the optimal option for your pocketbook.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Coral Springs
How much money could I save by going solar in Coral Springs?
How popular is solar energy in Coral Springs?
Should I expect a property value increase after installing solar panels?
How can I determine my site's solar potential?
How do I care for my new solar system?
What's the average solar system size in Coral Springs?
How many estimates should I get before making a final solar company decision?
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