Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy comes with multiple perks. Let's look at a few of them.
- Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is the universe's most abundant clean energy source, meaning you can minimize or conquer your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.
- Reduced energy costs: Generating some or all of your own energy will save you money on your electric bills long-term.
- Better energy independence: Solar panels can keep your home running through blackouts and emergencies. You can use your solar energy anytime with an optional battery backup system.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Pembroke Pines Homeowners?
Florida's public agencies and power companies offer multiple solar incentives to help lower your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of available solar programs where you live.
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 Pembroke Pines
The cost and efficiency of solar panels often rely on the solar company that mounted them. Make your choice based on the following important considerations.
The style of solar panels you purchase dictates how much power you can produce. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. Thin-film panels are excellent for non-traditional roof shapes and cost the least, but don't work well for large residential installations.
Additional system add-ons, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will increase your overall cost. These will increase your total project price, but they can enhance your solar system's performance. Not every solar installer includes these extras, 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. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private accreditations. Two of the most prestigious are the Solar Heating Installer and PV Installation Professional certificates, granted by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.
Financing Options
There are numerous ways to pay for a new solar system, and the right one will help you decrease overhead. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar leases, solar loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs) and cash payments. We suggest making a cash payment or securing a solar loan for the highest 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 reduce 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 installments while still benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay 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 based only on the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. We generally don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the panels and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Ask each provider you're vetting about the payment options it offers. A salesperson can help you determine the best option for your financial situation.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Pembroke Pines
How much money could I save by going solar in Pembroke Pines?
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