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With the annual electricity cost being $1900 approximately, more homeowners are looking at solar panels. Florida Power & Light has committed to adding another 30 million solar panels by 2030. Duke Energy Florida, the state’s second-largest utility, intends to have 700+ MW of solar power online by 2023.
If you’re thinking about going solar in Florida or have already done so, it’s a good idea to know the ins and outs of solar working in the sunshine state. Learn about solar energy in St Petersburg, FL, here.
How Solar Energy Works In Florida
Two primary forms of solar energy technologies are concentrating solar-thermal power and photovoltaics.
- Photovoltaics. Solar panels are made of many small cells called photovoltaics (PV). The cells collect light from the sun and turn it into electricity. They work best when facing south in direct sunlight, so they collect as much sunlight as possible as it passes through them.
- The concentrated solar power. Mirrors are used in concentrated solar power (CSP) systems to concentrate sunlight onto solar energy receivers, which may then be used to power various electrical devices. These receivers then transform heat into electricity and stores. Large power plants use it.
These panels are connected using metal frames called racking systems that securely hold everything on your roof. These solar power installations will have to connect to electrical grids and work with conventional and alternative energy sources in homes and businesses.
In Florida, How Do You Get Solar Power?
If you’re interested in getting solar power in Florida, there are a few steps you need to take.
- You must find out if your home is eligible for solar panels. You can do this by looking at the requirements of your state government. If they meet those requirements, you can apply for a permit to put them on your roof.
- Decide how many solar panels should go up on your roof: the project depends on your house size and money.
How Much Time Does It Take In Florida For Solar energy to pay for Itself?
Most systems in Florida can pay for themselves in 10 years or less. It means that during those 10 years, your energy bill will be cheaper than if you had not installed the panels. After 10 years, you’ll save money every month and continue until the end of your usable lifespan.
Some variables affect how long it takes based on where you live in Florida and whether or not a company will give you a discount on your initial investment.
In Florida, If You Go, Solar is There an Incentive?
Florida offers financial incentives to residents who want to install solar panels in their homes in response to the growing climate change.
You can avoid paying sales and real estate tax if you have installed solar panels. It translates to a savings of 6% on the cost of your solar energy setup.
As a result of net metering, you get paid for the energy your solar panels don’t utilize. Your utility company will pay you if you generate more electricity than you use. In addition, you can receive credits equal to the additional kW output, lowering your electricity expenses monthly.
However, the federal government offers the best incentive. You can save as much as 26 percent on solar panels by taking advantage of their Tax Credit (ITC). To receive this rebate, you must have a substantial annual income.
The Cost of Installing Solar Power In Florida
Installing solar panels in your home can be a great way to reduce your energy costs, but it can also be an expensive investment. The cost of installing panels depends on the home size and how much electricity you use.
The average cost of installing solar panels in Florida is between $13,380 and $17,220 per kilowatt (kW). It means that if you have a 6 kW system, it will cost $15,500 to install.
In addition to purchasing the cost of solar panels, you’ll also need to pay for permits and inspections for your installation. In addition to these costs, other hidden costs are associated with installing solar panels that aren’t included in the estimate above. For example:
Choosing solar panels over fossil fuels is a great choice for the planet. If you choose solar power, you can save a minimum of 30 percent on your electric bill. You can participate in solar energy, and with initiatives like FPL’s Solar Incentives Program, it’s never been easier to leave your carbon footprint. Get ready to harness the power of the sun.