Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy has numerous advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Lowered energy bills: You can skip the premium cost of grid-tied power by generating some electricity right where you use it.
- 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 Largo Homeowners?
Governments and utilities often incentivize homeowners for embracing solar. Here are some of the rebates, tax credits or other programs you could qualify for.
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 Largo
Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and valuable solar array. Make your choice based on the following essential elements.
The kind of solar panels you purchase decides how much power you can produce. Monocrystalline panels offer the best energy production but cost more than other options. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. 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 accessories, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will increase your overall investment. By selecting the right ones, you can make your system more productive and user-friendly. Not every solar company provides these add-ons, so look for a contractor that has them if it's essential 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. Solar companies can also pursue certifications from standards organizations and trade groups. The top ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.
Financing Options
Solar companies offer multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. A few of the most common options include cash payments, power purchase agreements (PPAs), loans, and leases. 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 home or auto loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for money-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) allows you to pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. We usually don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Look for contractors that offer multiple payment plans to find the right fit for your financial needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Largo
How much money could I save by going solar in Largo?
Is solar energy common in Largo?
Should I expect a property value increase after going solar?
How can I check my home's solar suitability?
Is solar panel installation a quick job?
What's the average solar system size in Largo?
What are some "red flags" to watch for as I research companies?
- [RandomChoice||High-pressure sales tactics|Aggressive sales pitch|Pushy sales approach|Pressuring you into signing a contract]
- [RandomChoice||Dodging questions|Not being straightforward|Being evasive] about {"cost, warranties, references, the crew's [RandomChoice||credentials and training|training and credentials]"|shuffle_list("or")}
- [RandomChoice||Limited or no customization|"One-size-fits-all" approach|Inflexible options]
- [RandomChoice||Not thoroughly inspecting your site|Superficial, rushed site evaluation|Rushing through the site assessment]
- [RandomChoice||No references or testimonials|More mixed or negative reviews than positive ones|Limited customer feedback|Limited online information|No business filing with your local secretary of state]
Should I get quotes from multiple Largo solar companies?
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