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Best 5 Solar Companies in University, FL

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Written By Max Peterson|Last Updated: April 18, 2024

University homeowners are increasingly using solar panels to generate energy and heat their water. While switching to solar energy comes with upfront costs, local homeowners could ultimately save $1,000 per kilowatt on their electric bills. A professional technician can help you select the best panels to maximize your savings. In this guide, we'll show you University's best solar installers and offer suggestions for your company choice, so you can find the perfect one for your household.

Best High-Efficiency System
4.8
  • Builds custom, high-efficiency solar systems suited to each home
  • Extensive coverage area throughout the country
  • Offers energy storage and EV charger add-ons
Most Reputable
4.4
  • Offers high-efficiency panels and storage options
  • Provides unique in-house financing options
  • Recognized as one of the most reputable solar companies
Best Solar Panel Leasing
4.4
  • Provides system monitoring
  • Offers diverse financing options for various budgets
  • Provides EV and solar battery solutions

Top University Solar Companies

US Solar Logo

US Solar

5/5
Based on 1,912 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Panel Installation

Highlights

  • Prompt service delivery
  • Informative resources
  • Free quotes
2732 Broadway Center Blvd, Brandon, FL 800-351-3430 joinussolar.com
Unicity Solar Energy Logo

Unicity Solar Energy

4.8/5
Based on 303 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Permit AssistanceConsultationPanel Installation

Highlights

  • Prompt service delivery
  • Free quotes
  • Informative resources
4515 George Rd #340, Tampa, FL 727-945-6060 unicitysolar.com
Transform Solar Logo

Transform Solar

4.7/5
Based on 118 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Panel InstallationSystem DecommissioningConsultation

Highlights

  • Reliable customer support
  • Clear pricing policy
  • Informative resources
201 E Selma Ave, Tampa, FL 813-565-1443 transformsolarfl.com
Total Care Installs Logo

Total Care Installs

4.7/5
Based on 28 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Panel InstallationPermit AssistanceConsultation

Highlights

  • Prompt service delivery
  • Informative resources
  • Clear pricing policy
610 E Zack St Suite 110-4049, Tampa, FL 813-438-3886 tcisolarhome.com

More Local Solar Companies

Powersol USA

User Reviews: 4.7/5 

600 N Willow Ave
Tampa, FL 33606

Ecuip Engineering

User Reviews: 4.7/5 

1646 W Snow Ave, Tampa, FL 33606, 196
Tampa, FL 33609

Freedom Solar Power - Tampa Solar Panel Installers

User Reviews: 4.6/5 

8105 Krauss Blvd #102
Tampa, FL 33619

Tampa Bay Solar

User Reviews: 4.5/5 

6002 E Adamo Dr
Tampa, FL 33619

Coast To Coast Solar

User Reviews: 4.5/5 

19209 US-41
Lutz, FL 33549

Sunbility

User Reviews: 4.5/5 

920 E 124th Ave B
Tampa, FL 33612

Ensolar

User Reviews: 4.5/5 

8186 Woodland Center Blvd
Tampa, FL 33614

SolarWise Energy Solutions

User Reviews: 4.4/5 

4020 W Cayuga St
Tampa, FL 33614

CKR Solar

User Reviews: 4.4/5 

3946 Lake Padgett Dr
Land O' Lakes, FL 34639

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.

Ranking Methodology

Our team focuses on the following criteria to determine the best University solar companies.

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Facts about University
Average Max Temp:82°F
Solar Payback Period:8.6 years
Average Daily Sunlight:66%
Homes Powered by Solar:2,374
Average Annual Energy Bill:$1,505
Solar Power per Capita Percentile:48.0%

Expert Tips By

This Old House empowers homeowners with the knowledge and tools they need to tackle various projects and navigate the complexities of homeownership.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy offers numerous advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

  • Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power means you're less dependent on fossil fuels, which emit harmful greenhouse gasses.
  • Lowered energy bills: You can dodge the added cost of grid-tied power by producing some electricity at home. Plus, many states provide net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back to credit part of your bill.
  • Better energy independence: Photovoltaic solar panel systems with battery storage systems work through blackouts and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on the grid for your safety and comfort.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to University Homeowners?

The state of Florida offers a variety of solar incentives to help offset your solar system costs. Below is a breakdown of applicable 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.gov

Incentive Amount:

Determined locally

Incentive Type: Loan Program

Website: lakelandelectric.com

Incentive Amount:

$5,000

Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit

Website: ecowatch.com

Incentive 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 University

Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and valuable solar array. Here are some important factors to remember while shopping for a solar installer.

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 certifications. Two of the most prestigious are the Solar Heating Installer and PV Installation Professional certificates, awarded 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.

Cost of Solar Panels in University

The kind of solar panels you choose determines 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 meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.

Additional components, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will raise your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar company provides these additional features, so look for a company that installs them if it's important for you.

Generally speaking, it costs about $16,050 for a five-kilowatt solar array in University. This table shows more specific pricing information for different solar panel types and system components in your area.

Solar Panel CostAverage Cost
Solar Monocrystalline$1,108
Solar Polycrystalline$864
Thin-Film$505
Solar Battery$709
Solar Home EV Charger$2,660

Financing Solar Energy in University

Choosing the right financing solution will influence your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include power purchase agreements, leases, cash payments, and loans. We recommend paying with cash 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 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 benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases let you use your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and do not provide you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. We suggest working with a provider that offers multiple financing options. Speak with each salesperson about what's available, and secure more than one estimate for the best odds of keeping within your financial plan.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in University.

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, financing programs, and incentives that could save you more money.

Solar System CapacityEstimated Payback period
1 kW1.7 years
2 kW3.5 years
5 kW8.6 years
10 kW17.3 years

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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in University

How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?

On average, University homeowners spend approximately $1,505 per year on electric bills. Once you repay your solar array, you could save $1,013.29 per kilowatt you produce.

Is solar energy widely available in University?

Yes, solar energy is spreading quickly in University. Some homes already benefit from solar power on-site or through utility grids, and they're backed by a state solar economy with 12202 jobs and counting.

Should I expect a property value increase after switching to solar energy?

Yes, new solar systems lead to higher property values according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL.) Homeowners could project a $20 property value increase for each dollar they save on energy. Therefore, $600 in energy savings could increase your home's value by $12,000.

Could I still use solar power if I live in a rainy, dark, or wooded area?

Even if your property has high tree cover, you could still take advantage of solar energy. Your technician will maximize your system's performance by selecting the proper site for panels, installing a battery backup system, cleaning them regularly, and positioning them to capture the most sunlight throughout the year. This way, you can store solar power and utilize it as necessary.

How long does the photovoltaic installation process require?

Your solar job's duration will depend on its complexity and size, as well as University's permit and inspection procedures. It could take a few weeks to two months on average.

What size should my new University solar system be?

The average University solar system size is 5.5 kilowatts (kW). However, your final system size depends on your household's energy needs. Your panel model, surrounding shading, and roof size could also impact your final result. A professional solar company will consider these factors and determine the right system size for your home.

What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?

A PPA is an agreement between you and your installer. They install, own, and maintain the panels, and you buy the generated electricity from them for 10–25 years. There will usually be options to extend the agreement and buy out early to own your system.

In contrast, solar loans can come from installer, specialty lenders, local banks and the government. You'll need to pass a credit check to qualify for most of them. While the upfront costs are larger, and you'll be responsible for upkeep, you'll also have full ownership rights and can apply for many more incentives.

Should I get quotes from multiple University solar companies?

It's smart to gather at least three different estimates before committing to a single solar installer. This allows you to evaluate product quality, customer feedback, pricing, and warranty options. It also lets you assess a contractor's knowledge, responsiveness and reliability, all of which are positive signs.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.

Sources