Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy comes with multiple perks. Let's look at a few of them.
- Lowered energy bills: Solar panels let you generate your own energy to power your home, lowering your regular electricity costs. Going off-grid can eliminate your bills completely. Plus, a significant number of states offer net metering, which permit you to earn money by selling your unused energy back to the grid.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with battery backups and storage systems function through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on the power grid for your safety and well-being.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using solar is a surefire way to reduce your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Plantation Homeowners?
Florida agencies and electric companies offer a variety of solar incentives to help cut your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of eligible 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 Plantation
The more informed your company investigation is, the better your photovoltaic system will ultimately perform. Here are some important factors to remember while shopping for a solar company.
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 earn accreditations 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.
Cost of Solar Panels in Plantation
The kind of solar panels you choose dictates how much electricity you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels work with a tried-and-true mechanism and cost less, but produce less power. Thin-film panels aren't the best for large residential installations, but they are excellent accessories for non-traditional roofs.
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 all solar providers provide these optional components, so look for a provider that installs them if it's a priority for you.
Generally speaking, it will cost about $16,050 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Plantation. This table displays more specific costs for different solar panel types and system components in your area.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,095 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $854 |
Thin-Film | $499 |
Solar Battery | $701 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,629 |
Financing Solar Energy in Plantation
There are a plethora of ways to pay for a solar energy system, and the right one will lower your costs. A few of the most common options include cash payments, loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and leases. We suggest paying with cash or using 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 own your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to minimize 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 monthly installments while still enjoying 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) permits you to pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the solar system and cannot use solar incentives. Ask each provider you're vetting about the financing options it offers. A salesperson can help you determine the optimal option for your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Plantation.
You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy devices until the year 2032. Municipal and state governments and utility companies might also offer rebates, discounts, and specialized financing options that could save you 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 Plantation
How much money could I save by going solar in Plantation?
Is solar energy common in Plantation?
Will a solar PV system increase my Plantation home price?
What can I do to predict my home's solar potential?
What is a Plantation solar panel's average lifespan?
What size should my new Plantation solar system be?
How can I maximize my solar panels' performance?
- optimize the panels' position with your solar installer
- regularly clean your solar panels
- upgrade to a more efficient inverter trim or cut down trees in the way of your panels
- use energy-efficient appliances
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