Best 5 Solar Companies in Melbourne, FL

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Melbourne

The purchase price and effectiveness of solar panels often depend on the solar company that installed them. Here are some key items to consider while searching for a solar provider.

Your solar modules' style will impact how much power you can generate. Monocrystalline panels perform the best but cost the most. 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.

You can also add electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total project price, but they can enhance your solar system's efficiency. Not all solar providers provide these extras, so look for an installer 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 pass 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 credible trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.

Financing Options

Solar companies use multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. Common payment options include power purchase agreements, loans, leases, and cash payments. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand a large up-front sum, but they help you avoid paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Much like a car or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with 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 choices because you won't own the solar system and cannot use solar incentives. Look for installers that offer multiple payment plans to find the right fit for your budget.