Florida’s nickname, the Sunshine State, is a true representation of its climate. The state gets enough sunshine, with an average of 230 sunny days per year and 4.75 or more peak sun hours per day.
This makes it the perfect place to harness the sun’s power for energy production. And makes investing in solar power a logical choice.
This article will discuss the major benefits of going solar in Florida. And more importantly, we’ll find out whether solar in Florida is worth it or not.
6 Significant Benefits of Going Solar in Florida
Going solar in Florida may be expensive. But the long-term benefits often outweigh the upfront expense. Homeowners can experience financial and environmental benefits such as
Reduced electricity costs
This is the biggest reason why it’s worth going solar in Florida.
The abundant sun heats to an average temperature of over 70 degrees. This high temperature makes it easier for homeowners to maximize solar energy production.
It reduces the number and cost of panels they need to power their homes compared to other states. And also maximizes their return on investing in solar.
The average homeowner in Florida consumes greater energy than residents in other states. They pay as much as $128.64 per month for electricity.
With rising energy rates, going solar can help you reduce your dependence on the traditional power grid. And ultimately, you may no longer have to pay expensive electricity bills every month!
Reliable Energy Source During Florida’s Power Outages
Pairing solar and battery storage can be a money-saver for your home when the power is on. And it can be a lifeline, providing your home with backup power during grid failures.
Florida is more prone to frequent and long-lasting power outages than any other state. Especially during severe weather events such as hurricanes, cyber-attacks, and other anomalies.
These outages cause major disruptions for residents and businesses in Florida. They disrupt power, internet, and phone services, as well as cause damage to property.
To enjoy reliable electricity, consider investing in alternative energy sources, like solar power.
Opportunities for profit through net metering and solar renewable energy credits (SRECs)
Homeowners with solar panels can earn money through net metering and SRECs.
Net metering allows you to sell excess energy back to the grid when your panels produce more energy than you need. While SRECs allow you to earn credits for each megawatt-hour of clean energy, your solar panel produces.
The credits you earn from both programs can offset your initial solar installation cost.
You can also use the credits to offset energy costs when your panels aren’t producing as much energy. Or you can sell them to other entities that need to meet renewable energy requirements.
All this makes solar power even more financially viable.
Increase in Property Value
Installing solar panels on your property can increase its value.
According to a recent study by Zillow, homes with solar panels sell for an average of 4.1% more than homes without. They also sell faster and at a higher price (more than $15,000) than comparable homes without solar, according to a study by The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).
This shows buyers are willing to pay more for homes with solar panels as it reduces electricity costs and saves money in the long run.
Florida already has over 2.5 GW of solar capacity, which will continue to increase. As it increases, homes with solar panels will become more desirable for buyers.
Thus, installing solar panels in your home would be a smart investment that saves you money on electricity bills and increases the value of your property.
Access to State and federal incentives and programs
Floridians with solar panels are eligible for government incentives to reduce the cost of installing solar systems.
Programs such as the Florida Solar Energy Center offer technical assistance and education to residents interested in solar. And more importantly, homeowners with solar can claim the Florida Renewable Energy Technologies Income Tax Credit, a dollar-for-dollar reduction of Florida income tax liability for the cost of the solar energy system.
Homeowners with solar power are also eligible for the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which offers a tax credit equal to 30% of the cost of the solar energy system. You can claim the credit the same year you install your solar energy system.
Clean and Eco-friendly energy source
Solar energy is clean and renewable. Unlike traditional power generation methods like coal, oil, and gas, it does not contribute to pollution or global warming.
According to NREL, a solar panel system can offset over 200,000 pounds of carbon dioxide over its lifetime. This helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve our air quality and public health.
Want to help save our planet? Consider going solar to help Florida reduce its carbon footprint and combat climate change.
Final Thoughts: Is solar in Florida worth it?
The benefits of going solar in Florida make it clear that the switch is definitely worth it.
Most Floridians have found that going solar is a worthwhile investment. Because their energy consumption is high and solar systems are cheaper than average.
The state’s abundant sunlight and government incentives make it an ideal location for solar energy. And by installing solar panels, you can save money on your electricity bills, have a reliable power source during outages, reduce your carbon footprint, and increase the value of your homes.
If you’re going solar, it’s important to calculate upfront expenses and the solar panel payback period. Also, don’t forget to consider the expertise of the company handling the installation. At 4ProEnergy, our goal is to provide you and your family with the best services and options. Contact us to learn more about the savings and suitability of solar power for your home.
