Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides several advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power lowers your dependence on fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases that damage the environment.
- Smaller power bills: Sourcing some or all of your own energy will save you money on your electric bills long-term.
- Better energy independence: Solar energy can keep your home running through blackouts and emergencies. You can use your solar energy anytime with an optional battery storage system.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to St. Petersburg Homeowners?
Florida homeowners who decide on solar could qualify for rebates, tax credits, reimbursements and special financing. 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: 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 St. Petersburg
The cost and performance of solar panels often hinge on which company installed them. Make your choice based on the following essential elements.
Your solar modules' style will affect how much energy you can produce. Monocrystalline panels perform the best but cost the most. Polycrystalline panels offer you a budget panel with a traditional design, but at the cost of less power generation. Thin-film panels have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.
You can also add electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total project price, but they can improve your solar system's performance. Not every solar company provides these additional features, so look for a contractor that has them if it's essential 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 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. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private certifications. Two of the most recognized are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer 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
Choosing the right financing solution will impact your overall solar system cost and possible savings. Common payment options include cash payments, leases, loans, and power purchase agreements. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most economical choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the second most effective option. As with a car or home loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for cost-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to rent your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, similar 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. Ask each provider you're considering about the financing options it offers. A salesperson can help you determine the optimal option for your pocketbook.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Solar Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in St. Petersburg
How much money could I save by going solar in St. Petersburg?
How common is solar energy in St. Petersburg?
Should I expect a property value increase after switching to solar energy?
What if I live in a gloomy or dark
How long will a common solar system last?
What's the average solar system size in St. Petersburg?
What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?
In contrast, solar loans can come from your installer's partners, local banks, specialty lenders and the government. You'll need to pass a credit check to qualify for most of them. While the upfront costs are higher and you'll be responsible for upkeep, you'll also have complete ownership and can apply for many more financial rewards.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.