By Glenda Taylor and Mark Wolfe | Published Sep 30, 2022 2:38 PM

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Florida is one of the sunniest states in the U.S., so upgrading to solar home energy makes sense. Doing so lets homeowners take advantage of a free and plentiful energy source that will lower monthly utility bills while reducing the environmental impact on the planet. Switching to solar is a big step toward sustainability, but the process can be costly and complicated.

When a homeowner is ready to move to clean solar energy, it pays to partner with a reputable company. These professionals will help homeowners navigate system design, equipment options, installation, maintenance services, and incentive programs for the best return on investment. We’ve researched dozens of businesses to help narrow the search. Read on to learn more about our criteria and why we consider these businesses the best solar companies in Florida.

For optimal power-generating results, solar panels should be placed where they receive ample direct sunlight. Placement will be dictated in large part by the home’s position and location, the panels’ type and efficiency, and whether the yard has overhanging trees. Before selecting one of the top solar companies in Florida, it’s wise to consider critical factors affecting cost and efficiency.

Just because a solar company says it operates in Florida doesn’t mean that it operates in all parts of Florida. Some companies may only service specific metro areas around the state. When researching solar companies, homeowners will want to ensure that the company performs work in their specific ZIP code.

When an installer is placing solar panels, location is essential. In northern areas of the U.S., limited hours of winter sunlight may not be sufficient to balance out the cost of installing a solar array.

Location isn’t limited to the general geographic area; it also encompasses tall trees or buildings that can block the sun’s light for a considerable part of the day. Additionally, roof type is a concern. A roof with a south-facing slope is ideal for installing solar panels. Some homes may have a roof structure that is not structurally sound enough to support a solar array. The installer may need to repair the roof or place the panels on an independent ground unit instead of on the roof.

Solar panels all create electricity, but they do it in different manners. The two primary types of solar panels are photovoltaic and thermal, and there are a few other varieties within those categories.

Homeowners can install an independent off-grid solar array or an on-grid or grid-tie system. Both come with a few benefits and considerations.

An off-grid solar array is a great choice for homeowners who want to be entirely energy self-sufficient. An off-grid system lets the homeowner generate all their electricity. Additional power generated beyond the home’s immediate needs will be stored in large batteries, and this storage can help provide electricity when it’s cloudy. If a storm or natural disaster causes a local power outage, an off-grid system can continue to operate. But if the off-grid system cannot generate power due to low sunlight and the battery storage is depleted, any electrical systems in the home won’t be able to function.

A grid-tie system is popular because homeowners can often sell the excess energy generated back to the utility company. And if there’s not enough sun to fully power the panels, the home can still draw power from the grid. But if the utility company experiences an outage, a grid-tied system will shut down. This is a safety precaution: It would be unsafe for a technician to work on a down power line if a home solar array sent electricity into the line. Those with grid-tie systems can mitigate the effects of utility power outages by installing battery storage.

Solar panels are becoming more productive as manufacturers integrate more advanced technology. But how can consumers determine if a certain panel is better than another? It all comes down to percentages. Most solar panels have efficiency ratings of 15 to 20 percent. This means that when sunlight hits the panel, the panel will transform between 15 to 20 percent of the sun’s energy into usable electricity.

Some high-efficiency solar panels have efficiency ratings up to 25 percent; however, the highest efficiency available today is around 22.5 percent. Industry experts are working on ways to augment solar panel efficiency, and research shows future solar panels could have efficiency ratings of 40 percent.

Some solar companies can install more than one brand of solar panels, but other companies manufacture and install their own panels. The distinction may not mean much to some customers, especially if they want a good panel installation price. However, this difference often affects the installation company’s guarantees. Manufacturers/installers may be more likely to offer stronger warranties. Conversely, a company that only installs panels but doesn’t manufacture them may require the customer to contact the manufacturer directly for any issues with the panels.

Most solar companies provide free consultations. The consultation typically includes assessing the home’s location and gauging the amount of direct sunlight the solar array would receive. As part of the process, the company often suggests a specific type of solar panel array. The consultation process will also provide the homeowner with an estimate of how much they could save on their current utility bill.

The cost to have solar panels installed in Florida usually ranges between $10,000 and $15,000, depending on the number of panels needed and the panels’ efficiency. Most homeowners will pay an average of $13,000.

Homeowners may be able to take advantage of financing through a solar company or a private lender. Private lenders may want the homeowner to take out a second mortgage on their home to secure the loan.

Many customers find leasing solar panels to be a favorable alternative. Solar leases allow homeowners to reduce their carbon footprint and lower their energy bills, and the leasing company owns the panels. Leases can last anywhere from 5 to 25 years. The leasing company also typically takes care of any repairs or maintenance required.

In many municipalities, a permit must be obtained before installing solar panels. The permit cost depends on local regulations, but the installer usually includes it in the installation cost. Additionally, the installer often pulls the permit for the customer.

A permit lets the local building authority know a homeowner intends to install solar panels. The building authority will then send an inspector to inspect the solar array installation before the installer can turn on the system.

The preliminary consultation and then acquiring the permit are the first two steps in the solar system installation process. Then, the installer can order the panels and any required equipment.

Installation is an exciting process, as it realizes the project’s planning. The installer will make any needed roof adjustments or repairs to support the array. The electrical system will be installed, and the mounted panels will be hooked up to the system.

The final step of turning the new system on may have to wait until an inspector examines everything. An installer will typically notify the inspector when installation is complete, so there should be minimal downtime between installation and when the system can be used.

In the solar business, a limited 25-year warranty is standard. This comprises replacing components that fail due to factory defects and installation errors or repairing the panels. But customers will want to be cautious because not all warranties are equally generous. Some warranties provide only the cost of replacement parts, leaving the homeowner responsible for paying the repair technicians. Other companies guarantee certain system features for shorter periods. For example, a company might provide a 25-year warranty on the panel performance and a 12.5-year warranty on the inverter.

A tax credit is a percentage of what the homeowner spent on solar panels that can be taken out of the amount of income they claim. The federal government provided a 30 percent tax credit until 2019. In this case, if the solar panels cost $10,000, the homeowner could reduce their income tax liability by $3,000 (30 percent of $10,000). But the federal tax credit has been reduced in the years since. The tax credit will be 26 percent through 2022. By 2023, it will drop to 22 percent. In 2024, the federal tax credit expires unless Congress moves to extend it.

States and local communities may offer their own tax incentives. Solar companies and manufacturers may also offer rebates, but the availability often changes. The solar installer is usually the prime source for up-to-date rebate and tax information.

Purchasing a solar system is expensive, and if something goes awry, it’s comforting to know the solar company is available to take care of the problem. Solar companies will have a call-in customer service number, and many will also have an emergency number for after-hours calls. Others provide customer support via chat or email with interactive troubleshooting to help the homeowner figure out the problem and schedule repairs (if needed). The more customer support options a company offers, the higher the customer satisfaction.

Solar is one of the most popular renewable energy sources for Florida homeowners. Whether a customer is looking to reduce their carbon footprint or to go completely off-grid, the following are some of the top solar companies in Florida.

Why It Made the Cut: SunPower boasts decades of experience offering excellent customer service, top-quality solar equipment, and a process that prioritizes simplicity, reliability, and efficiency.

SunPower could be the answer for those wondering who is the best solar company in Florida. It currently serves customers nationwide, including those in Florida. SunPower offers some of the industry’s top products and services, like Maxeon monocrystalline solar panels. These panels have a superior 22.8 percent efficiency rate, making them some of the best solar panels in Florida. Plus, the Maxeon panels are sleek and low profile with built-in microinverters, so homeowners don’t have to worry about sacrificing their home’s curb appeal. However, they’ll have to remember that SunPower solar panels can be more expensive than others on the market.

SunPower’s entire design process can be done virtually, thanks to the interactive online design studio. It’s also important to note that SunPower’s equipment is certified by Cradle to Cradle, meaning it maintains a minimal environmental impact through sustainable, circular production. Current or prospective SunPower customers can get in touch with a support representative via a phone call.

Why It Made the Cut: ADT Solar designs and installs residential solar systems with equipment from top manufacturers and backs them up with an incredibly comprehensive 25-year warranty.

ADT acquired Sunpro Solar in 2021, and it is now one of the top 10 solar companies in Florida. The aspect of ADT Solar that stands out within the industry is its warranty. ADT offers a comprehensive warranty that guarantees the solar system will produce at its estimated level for 25 years after purchase. However, it’s unclear which solar panels ADT Solar installs, which could significantly affect a homeowner’s power production. Luckily, customer support is available by phone or email to answer any questions.

Customers of ADT Solar will also appreciate the company’s 24/7 solar monitoring that ensures a home’s panels are running properly at all times. The company’s solar installation technicians can also make roofing repairs before or during a solar panel installation. This can streamline the process and means that a homeowner doesn’t need to hire an additional contractor.

Why It Made the Cut: Momentum Solar offers a personalized customer experience with a single point of client contact throughout the design and installation process.

Momentum Solar has steadily gained ground in the solar industry since it began operating in 2009. Its one-on-one sales and service model promises a single point of contact for each customer from consultation to installation. In addition to building better relationships, the unique approach helps clients take advantage of the full range of regional and local incentive programs. The company also handles all of a customer’s paperwork and permits, helping to relieve the homeowner’s stress and burden. The information readily available on Momentum’s website is slim, but customers can contact a representative via phone or email with any pressing questions.

Why It Made the Cut: Blue Raven Solar offers top-quality solar equipment, an easy start-up process, and the full benefits of solar system ownership for up to 18 months totally free before the first payment is due.

Currently available to Florida clients in the Orlando and Tallahassee metro areas, Blue Raven Solar opened in 2014 and has rapidly grown to serve 17 states across the country. It works to increase homeowners’ access to low-cost renewable energy. While there’s no solar lease or PPA (power purchase agreement) option, Blue Raven offers a BluePower Plus+ financing program, allowing homeowners up to 18 months of free solar energy.

Blue Raven Solar specializes in affordable, dependable solar panel and inverter installations. It only installs high-efficiency monocrystalline panels from reliable, cost-effective brands such as Trina and Canadian Solar. At this time, battery backups are unavailable through Blue Raven, but they may be in the future. The Blue Raven Smart Start program also allows customers to pay a reduced monthly price. Plus, customers can receive a free energy-saving kit with a smart thermostat and an LED light package to help them save even more money.

Why It Made the Cut: In addition to solar installations, Elevation provides home energy monitoring services and efficiency upgrades that reduce the total cost of energy.

Elevation is an integrated solar company with a whole-home approach. Instead of simply selling and installing power generation equipment, it first audits the client’s home-energy efficiency. It offers solutions to minimize wasted consumption before designing and installing a right-size solar system. The result is reduced home-power usage, less money on solar panels, and lower operating costs. The Curb monitoring system then keeps track of power consumption inside the home and generation at the solar system. It shows in real time where energy is being used and how much is generated, which keeps users apprised of any issues.

Elevation currently serves clients in five states, most recently starting operations in Florida. Information on financing and the type of solar panels used aren’t readily available on Elevation’s website, but homeowners can reach out to a customer support representative with any questions.

Why It Made the Cut: Solar Bear offers a wide range of renewable energy systems for a more customized solution to clean power.

Solar Bear has been installing renewable energy systems in Florida since 2015. The company offers a full range of clean energy–production solutions, including solar, geothermal, biomass, and wind systems. (Homeowners looking for solar battery storage will need an outside party for installation.) These options, combined with whole-home insulation services, mean that customers will get even more mileage out of their new solar panels. Customers needing roofing repairs before installation begins can also count on Solar Bear to handle any issues. Homeowners can contact Solar Bear by phone or email to ask about warranties and the types of solar panels used.

Installing a solar energy system is one of the most expensive renovation projects most homeowners will tackle. It’s wise to use trusted experts with a reputation for great customer service who install excellent equipment. SunPower is precisely that kind of business. Customers who want to ensure long-term results will appreciate the generous warranty ADT Solar offers.

Switching from conventional grid power to clean solar electricity requires a major commitment on the homeowner’s part, and finding a reputable provider presents challenges. Hundreds of solar installers operate in Florida, along with a crowded field of sales and marketing companies that rely on subcontractors to provide installation services. Coming up with a short list of the best options was no small task.

Our team researched the top local and nationwide businesses to identify the best solar companies in Florida. Because each customer and installation is unique, we favored businesses that prioritize operational flexibility and transparency. We searched customer reviews, Better Business Bureau ratings, and industry awards to find out which companies had the best reputations for customer service. Then we dug deeper to confirm that business processes were in place to support those high ratings into the future.

Home solar equipment and installation are significant up-front expenses that eventually pay off through reduced utility bills. With this financial burden in mind, our team ensured that the companies we recommend offer customer assistance for access to applicable incentive programs.

Before preparing to spend tens of thousands of dollars, it’s a good idea for homeowners to take a few steps and protect themselves.

Ahead of inviting a solar company to bid on the project, homeowners will want to find out if it can live up to the requirements. Customers will want to know where the company is physically located and where its shop or warehouse is located. If those are not within a reasonable distance from the installation site, how will warranty, service, and maintenance issues be handled? Homeowners will want a detailed plan before signing a contract or paying a deposit. This includes itemized equipment to be installed, a schematic of the installation, and a work timeline. This can help ensure that the contractor arranges the pre-work permitting process and post-work inspections.

It’s important to understand that many of the companies selling solar in Florida are sales and marketing enterprises that outsource installation work to subcontractors. The safest bet is to work with a company that installs the projects it sells.

Homeowners can clarify if the company subcontracts out the installation. If so, it’s important to learn about the vetting process. Is the subcontractor licensed, insured, and trained to install the equipment in the contract? Has the contracted company even worked with this particular subcontractor in the past? Who from the contracted company oversees the subcontractors? Will that person be on-site during installation?

The average cost of solar installation in Florida averages $2.55 per watt, or between $10,000 and $15,000 for a whole-house system, but several variables beyond the price of equipment and installation influence actual costs and savings.

Buyers take on a more significant up-front financial burden and added maintenance responsibilities, including hiring one of the best solar panel cleaning services to keep panels running efficiently. Paying for the system in full upon installation typically leads to the lowest cost and highest savings. Financing the system extends the payment period and may add interest or other fees. However, it still affords the benefits of tax incentives and significant operational savings thanks to the ability to sell excess electricity to the power company.

Customers who lease solar systems and therefore do not own them benefit from a reduced power bill but not the additional offset from selling excess power back to the utility. Also, lease customers do not qualify for many tax incentives buyers receive. Those who lease end up paying the most for solar in the long run.

With hundreds of solar companies in Florida to choose from, it pays to work with top-tier businesses. The best Florida solar companies have been in business long enough to develop excellent reputations for quality work. Not only that, but they bring other benefits to the table as well.

For homeowners who are considering one of the best solar panel companies in Florida but still have lingering questions, the following information may answer some commonly asked questions.

A PPA, or power purchase agreement, is often negotiated by a solar developer to provide low-cost solar power to a homeowner for some time in exchange for the opportunity to use their property for solar power generation. In this arrangement, the developer retains ownership of the solar system, receives any qualifying tax incentives, and profits from electricity sales back to the utility. The homeowner buys electricity from the developer at a rate usually lower than the utility rate. Florida is one of only a handful of states prohibiting customers from buying electricity from entities other than utility companies.

The only reason Florida currently does not allow PPAs is because it has not enacted legislation to allow them. The decision would be up to either a state legislative act or ballot initiative.

Depending on the system’s design, a solar system could keep the home functioning normally during a grid power outage. It is important to note that grid-tied solar systems cannot operate while grid power is down to protect utility workers as they repair the lines. This could leave solar customers with a problem unless they can disconnect from the grid as needed. Also, functioning while the grid power is turned off requires that a solar system include battery storage, which would need to be intentionally designed into a grid-tied system. Off-grid systems would operate as normal.

No. Although the property value may increase with the addition of a solar system, the state of Florida provides a 100 percent tax exemption on the solar system, including battery storage devices.

No. Although that tax provision is set to expire on December 31, 2024, solar energy equipment will remain available. The cost is expected to become more affordable as the technology becomes more widespread.

No. Florida does not offer a state-specific tax credit for solar.

Yes, the Tesla solar roof is available in Florida.

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