Are solar panels worth it in Florida? This is the most critical question for many Florida homeowners considering investing in solar energy. In this blog post, we’ll explore the advantages of solar panels, the factors to consider when deciding if they are worth it for your Florida home, the effect of solar panels on home value, and their average lifespan in Florida.
What Are the Advantages of Solar Panels?
Solar panels have several advantages that make them popular for generating electricity:
- Clean Energy – Solar panels produce clean, renewable energy that reduces dependence on fossil fuels.
- Lower Electricity Costs – Solar panels can lower your electricity bills by generating your own electricity and reducing your reliance on the grid.
- Minimal Maintenance – Solar panels have a long lifespan and require minimal maintenance.
- Increased Home Value – Solar panels can increase the value of your home, making it a worthwhile investment.
Factors To Consider When Deciding If Solar Panels Are Worth It in Florida
There are four major factors to consider when deciding whether to invest in solar for your Florida home – the amount of sunshine, electricity rates, rebates and incentives, and maintenance costs.
Amount of Sunshine in Florida
Florida is known as the Sunshine State for a reason. Consistently ranked in the top 10 sunniest states in the country, it’s no wonder that many Floridians are turning to solar power to generate electricity. However, it’s also important to consider the amount of sunshine in the specific region where you live. If your area experiences a lot of cloud cover or shade, your solar panels may be less efficient. It’s essential to consult with an experienced solar company to determine if your home is suitable for solar.
Electricity Rates in Florida
Electricity rates in Florida vary depending on where you live and which utility company services your home. However, statewide electricity rates are set to spike in 2023, meaning solar panels could be a cost-effective alternative to traditional grid electricity. You can reduce or even eliminate your electricity bills by generating your own electricity.
Rebates and Incentives
Florida offers a range of rebates and incentives to homeowners who install solar panels. For example, Florida’s Solar and CHP Sales Tax Exemption exempts Floridians from paying the 6% sales tax on solar panels. Additionally, net metering is allowed, meaning utility customers who generate solar energy can sell Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) back to the solar company with credits applicable to energy bills within the next 12 months or cash.
Low to No Maintenance Costs
Solar panels are generally low maintenance for a few reasons:
- Few moving parts: Unlike other energy-generating technologies, solar panels have very few moving parts. In fact, most solar panels have no moving parts at all, meaning fewer things can break down or require maintenance.
- Durable: Solar panels are built to withstand harsh weather conditions, such as extreme heat, cold, and rain.
- Self-cleaning: Solar panels are self-cleaning, with rain helping wash away any dirt or debris accumulating on the surface.
Can Solar Panels Increase a Florida Home’s Value?
Yes, investing in solar panels can increase the value of your Florida home. We’ll look at the factors that determine a home’s value and how solar panels add value to homes.
How Is a Home’s Value Determined?
A home’s value is determined by a variety of factors, including location, size, condition, current real estate market conditions, supply and demand, and the overall economy also affect home value. Additionally, upgrades and improvements made to a home, such as adding solar panels, can increase its value. The most common method of determining a home’s value is through a comparative market analysis (CMA), which compares the home to recently sold properties in the same area that are similar in size, condition, and amenities.
What the Experts Say – Solar Panels and Home Value
Several studies and experts have found that solar panels can increase a home’s value. According to a Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory study, homes with solar panels sold for an average of $15,000 more than comparable homes without solar panels. Another study by Zillow found that homes with solar panels sold for an average of 4.1% more than similar homes without solar panels.
Sustainable features in homes, including solar panels, are of growing importance to homebuyers. According to the Residential National Association of Homebuilders, REALTORS & Sustainability Report – Residential 63% of their surveyed members said, “energy efficiency promotion in listings was very or somewhat valuable.” Homebuyers want — and will pay more for — sustainable features like energy-efficient appliances and solar panels.
How Long Do Solar Panels Last in Florida?
The lifespan of solar panels is generally 25-30 years. The exact lifespan can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the panels, the installation process, and weather conditions. In this section, we will explore the lifespan of solar panels in Florida and the factors that can impact their longevity.
Weather Conditions
The weather and climate are big considerations for solar panels. Let’s look at those factors in Florida and how they affect solar panel energy production and efficiency.
- Abundant Sunshine: Florida has 237 average sunny days per year, providing plenty of opportunity for solar panels to generate energy.
- Rainfall: While Florida does experience heavy rainfall, this can actually be beneficial for solar panel performance. Rain can help wash away dirt and debris, improving the panels’ efficiency.
- Temperature: Although the hot and humid weather in Florida can cause solar panels to operate less efficiently, advancements in technology have made solar panels more resilient and able to withstand higher temperatures.
- Hurricanes: While hurricanes can be a concern, proper installation and reinforcement can help prevent damage to solar panels during severe weather events.
Overall, with proper installation and maintenance, solar panels in Florida can help homeowners save money on their energy bills while reducing their carbon footprint. The state’s abundant sunshine and occasional rainfall provide excellent opportunities for solar energy production.
Maintenance
Proper cleaning, inspection, and maintenance of solar panels can help ensure optimal performance and extend lifespan. Regular cleaning is especially important in Florida, where the humid climate can lead to the growth of mold and mildew on the surface of the panels. Regular inspections and maintenance can also identify any potential issues early on, preventing them from causing more significant problems down the line.
Solar with SunVena, Florida’s Top-Rated Solar Company
If you want to explore solar energy options for your Florida home, contact SunVena, the top-rated solar panel company in Florida. Our experienced team can help you assess your solar potential and design a customized solar energy system that meets your needs. Make the switch to solar energy today with SunVena.
