Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers multiple perks. Here are some highlights.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using solar is a surefire way to minimize your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
- Smaller power bills: Generating some or all of your own energy will save you money on your electric bills long-term. Plus, some states provide net metering programs that enable you to sell your surplus energy back to the grid, generating additional credits toward your energy bill.
- Better energy independence: Adding a battery storage system lets you have dependable energy during grid outages and storms.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Pine Hills Homeowners?
Florida homeowners who choose solar could qualify for special financing, rebates, tax credits and reimbursements. Here are just a few of the region's incentive offerings.
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 Pine Hills
Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and cost-efficient solar energy system. Consider all of these elements in your contractor search.
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 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 providers can also obtain certifications from trade groups and standards organizations. The most recognized ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.
Cost of Solar Panels in Pine Hills
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. 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 components, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will add to your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar provider offers these optional components, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's essential for you.
A majority of Pine Hills homeowners choose solar systems sized 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 Pine Hills
There are numerous ways to pay for new solar panels, and the right one will lower your costs. A few of the most common options include leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), cash payments, and loans. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most economical choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the next best option. As with a car or home 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 allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in certain circumstances. We recommend working with a company that offers multiple financing options. Speak with each representative about what's available, and obtain more than one estimate for the best odds of staying within your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Pine Hills.
You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, utilities and local governments may have their own financing plans and rebates that could reduce your total cost even more.
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 Pine Hills
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
How common is solar energy in Pine Hills?
Should I anticipate a boost in my property value after installing solar panels?
Could I still use solar power if I live in a wooded, rainy, or dark area?
How do I care for my new solar system?
How long does it take to pay back a solar loan in Pine Hills?
Should I get quotes from multiple Pine Hills solar companies?
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