Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides several advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems can keep your home functioning through emergencies and blackouts. You can use your solar energy anytime with optional battery backup.
- Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is one of the universe's most abundant clean energy sources, meaning you can minimize or conquer your home's dependence on fossil fuels.
- Reduced energy costs: Sourcing some or all of your own electricity will spend less on electricity long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that allow you to sell your unused energy back to the grid, generating additional credits toward your energy bill.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Orlando Homeowners?
Florida homeowners who choose solar could qualify for rebates, reimbursements, special financing and tax credits. Here are just a few of the area's incentive programs.
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: Rebate Program
Website: ouc.comIncentive Amount:
Window Film or Solar Screen: $0.55 per sq. ft.
Energy Star Windows: $1.50 per sq. ft.
Ceiling Insulation Upgrade: $0.10 per sq. ft.
Heat Pump: $90-$1,630 per unit
Duct Repair/Replacement: 100% of cost up to $100
A/C Proper Sizing w/ R-30 Attic Insulation: $90
Energy Star Heat Pump Water Heater: 100% of cost up to $500
Solar Thermal Water Heater: 100% of cost, up to $900
Solar PV System Battery: $2,000
Incentive Type: Performance-Based Incentive
Website: ouc.comIncentive Amount:
Solar Therm: $900 rebate
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 Orlando
Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and valuable solar energy system. Here are some crucial criteria to keep in mind while searching for a solar specialist.
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. Florida also allows electrical contractors to install solar panels, but they may need to subcontract some tasks to a licensed roofer. Solar companies can also earn accreditations from trade groups and standards organizations. The most respected 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.
Cost of Solar Panels in Orlando
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels offer the best energy production but cost more than other options and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels provide a lower price point but produce less power. 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 car (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can improve your solar system's efficiency. Not all solar providers include these additional features, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's essential for you.
Most Orlando homeowners select solar systems rated for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems cost about $16,050 to set up, considering both materials and labor. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,135 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $885 |
| Thin-Film | $517 |
| Solar Battery | $726 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,723 |
Financing Solar Energy in Orlando
Solar contractors use multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are power purchase agreements (PPAs), solar loans, cash payments and solar leases. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment or using a solar loan. Cash payments require a large up-front sum, but they help you avoid paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Similar to a car or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases let you use your panels for a fixed monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, akin to 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. Look for installers that offer multiple payment plans to find the right fit for your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Orlando.
The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal solar tax credit on the full cost of the solar system, so long as you purchase it before 2032. City and state governments and utilities might also offer their own rebates, incentives, and financing programs that could save you more money.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 1.7 years |
| 2 kW | 3.5 years |
| 5 kW | 8.6 years |
| 10 kW | 17.3 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Orlando
How much money could I save by going solar in Orlando?
How widespread is solar energy in Orlando?
Will solar energy systems raise my Orlando home worth?
What's a Orlando solar panel's average lifespan?
What size should my new Orlando solar system be?
How long does it take to pay back a solar loan in Orlando?
How does "net metering" work, and do I need to participate?
Some states or power companies oblige you to participate in net metering when purchasing your solar system, while others give you a choice. Either way, once you participate, you'll earn a check or bill credit for your excess generation at a wholesale or retail rate.
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