Best 5 Solar Companies in Jacksonville, FL

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Jacksonville

Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and cost-efficient solar energy system. Make your choice based on the following important considerations.

The type of solar panels you select dictates how much power you can produce. Monocrystalline panels give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels offer you a budget panel with a traditional design, but at the cost of less power generation. Thin-film panels aren't the best for large residential installations, but they are excellent accessories for non-traditional roofs.

If you need to charge an electric car or use your solar power in dark weather, you'll usually pay extra for add-ons. These upgrades extend your system’s efficiency while adding more conveniences to your home. Not all solar contractors provide these add-ons, so look for a company 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. Check for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar industry's most trusted trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.

Financing Options

Choosing the correct financing option will influence your overall solar system cost and possible savings. A few of the most common options include cash payments, leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and loans. We recommend making a cash payment 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 cut 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 monthly installments while still enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases let you use your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, much like an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and don't grant you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Ask each business you're evaluating about the financing options it offers. A consultant can help you determine the optimal option for your financial situation.