Best 5 Solar Companies in Lakeland, FL

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Lakeland

The more informed your provider search is, the better your photovoltaic system will ultimately function. Consider all of these criteria in your contractor search.

The type of solar panels you select dictates how much electricity you can produce. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. 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 system add-ons, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will add to your overall investment. By choosing the right ones, you can make your panel array more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar companies provide these add-ons, so look for a contractor that has them if it's important 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 tests 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. Look for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), one of the solar industry's most trusted trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.

Financing Options

There are many ways to pay for a new solar system, and the right one will lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are cash payments, solar loans, solar leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs). We advise 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 own your system and can apply for solar incentives to minimize your total costs. Solar loans are another solid option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in monthly 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) lets you pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, as with an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the solar system and cannot use solar incentives. We advise working with a provider that offers multiple financing options. Talk to each representative about what's available, and acquire more than one estimate for the best odds of keeping within your financial plan.