How much do solar panels cost in Florida?
How much do solar panels cost in Florida?
$2.60 – $3.30 average cost per watt
$20,800 – $29,700 total cost before tax credits (8 – 9 kilowatts)
$14,600 – $18,500 total cost after tax credits (8 – 9 kilowatts)
Average cost of solar panels in Florida
The average cost of solar panels in Florida is $2.60 to $3.30 per watt or $20,800 to $29,700 installed for an 8-to-9-kilowatt system, depending on the panel type, brand, quality, and installer. The cost to install solar panels in Florida reduces to $14,600 to $18,500 total after a 30% federal tax credit.
| System size | Average total cost | Average cost (after 30% tax credit)* |
|---|---|---|
| 3 kW | $7,800 – $9,900 | $5,500 – $6,900 |
| 4 kW | $10,400 – $13,200 | $7,300 – $9,200 |
| 5 kW | $13,000 – $16,500 | $9,100 – $11,600 |
| 6 kW | $15,600 – $19,800 | $10,900 – $13,900 |
| 7 kW | $18,200 – $23,100 | $12,700 – $16,200 |
| 8 kW | $20,800 – $26,400 | $14,600 – $18,500 |
| 9 kW | $23,400 – $29,700 | $16,400 – $20,800 |
| 10 kW | $26,000 – $33,000 | $18,200 – $23,100 |
*Local government and utility company incentives may also be available to further lower the cost.
The average solar system size in Florida is 8 to 9 kilowatts (kW) and pays for itself in about 10 years.
The sunshine state gets 200+ days or about 3,000 hours of sunlight each year.
Florida currently ranks third in the country for total installed solar capacity and is topping the charts at #1 for the most solar installations during the first half of 2023.
Florida solar panel installation cost breakdown
Factors that influence the cost of solar panel installation in Florida include:
Panel brand & quality – Most solar panels are either premium, standard, or economy. Purchase the highest quality panels your budget allows from a solar company with a solid history to increase the chances they will stay in business through the life of your system and warranty.
Installation company – Florida has 65 solar manufacturers and 200+ solar installers to choose from with varying prices, labor rates, services, warranties, and reputations.
Roof age – Since most solar panels last 25+ years, consider replacing an older roof before installing a new solar system to maximize the lifespan of the panels. Some older roofs may not be durable enough to support a solar panel system.
Roof type – Your roof type and structural design affects which type of solar panels you can install and how challenging the installation is. Costs are typically higher for complex installations that require more expertise and time to complete.
System size – Installing a solar system on larger homes or homes with higher electricity usage costs more in total but may cost less per watt than smaller installations. If your property is very large, a solar farm costs $0.90 to $1.30 per watt to build a community solar farm that powers local subscribers.
Permits & interconnection – Requirements and fees for permitting and connecting to the grid vary depending which Florida county you're installing the solar panels in. Some power companies charge interconnection fees over and above the local government's permitting fees.
Purchase method
Paying in full at the time of the solar panel installation will typically save you the most money in the long term.
Many financing options are available to start your renewable energy journey now with little to no money down. Florida's Property-Assessed Clean Energy Financing (PACE) offers 10- to 20-year loans, for which all Florida residents are eligible.
Solar leases offer an alternative to purchasing. The solar company installs your system for free, and you pay a discounted fixed rate for the electricity generated and used.
Check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) for additional information about how to save when going solar in Florida.
Solar panel system components
The panels are only one part of a home's solar energy system. Solar systems also require panel-mounting structures, as well as an inverter to convert the energy for electricity use. If you wish to have backup power stored for potential outages, add battery storage to your components list.
Solar panels – Microcrystalline panels are the most efficient, but also the costliest. Polycrystalline panels are priced lower but are not as efficient. Thin film panels are the cheapest and least efficient, with a shorter, 15-year lifespan.
Solar inverters – A solar inverter costs $1,500 to $3,000 installed. Depending on the type, you may have one or several inverters. These components are typically included in your solar panel system installation because they are necessary for the system to run.
Solar battery storage – A solar battery storage system costs $5,600 to $11,200 with installation (after tax credits). Batter storage isn't necessary for every system, but it's certainly helpful to have backup power when needed, especially if you live in an area with frequent power outages.
Incentives & tax credits
The table below details several ways you can save on a new solar system in Florida. Besides doing your own research, consider talking to a financial advisor to make sure you get the most out of the available tax incentives for new solar panel installation.
| Incentive type | Description |
|---|---|
| Residential Clean Energy Credit (formerly Solar Investment Tax Credit or ITC) |
|
| Property tax exemption |
|
| Solar and CHP Sales Tax Exemption |
|
| Local government & utility company incentives |
|
| Net metering / solar buyback programs |
|
| Solar lease |
|
Florida's 4 privately owned utility companies, or Investor-Owned Utilities (IOUs), are: Duke Energy Florida, Florida Power & Light (FPL), Florida Public Utilities Corporation, and Tampa Electric Company (TECO). This accounts for about 80% of Florida's electricity customers.
Solar system maintenance
Solar panel cleaning costs $150 to $500 for most residential systems, depending on the system size, location, and cleaning method. Some solar companies include an annual inspection and annual or bi-annual cleaning in the solar panel installation contract to keep the system running at maximum efficiency.
FAQs about solar panels in Florida
Are solar panels worth it in Florida?
Solar panels are worth it in Florida in most cases. This sunshine state ranks in the top ten states with the highest electricity bills. Incorporating renewable energy from solar panels can help manage the consistently increasing costs. Solar panels may have a high upfront cost, but they generate significant long-term savings.
Installing solar panels typically increases home value, but won't increase your property taxes, thanks to Florida law.
The payback period for Florida solar panel installation is about 10 years.
Most solar panel warranties are at least 25 years, with some even boasting a 40-year warranty. This means after the breakeven period, you'll enjoy 15+ years of free electricity.
How long do solar panels last in Florida?
Most solar panels in Florida last 25 to 30 years. Factors like major weather events, equipment quality, and maintenance affect the solar system's lifespan. Choose the highest quality solar panels your budget will allow and follow a regular inspection and maintenance schedule to get the longest possible lifespan out of your solar panels.
Can an HOA deny solar panels in Florida?
No, an HOA cannot deny solar panels in Florida. Florida Statute 163.04 prohibits homeowners associations from denying solar panel installations.
Homeowners must still follow any HOA guidelines regarding solar energy system installation.
An HOA can restrict the panel placement only if the restriction does not negatively affect the solar panel's performance.
Can you get free solar panels in Florida?
No, you cannot get free solar panels in Florida. However, while the state does not have any free solar panel programs, some solar companies offer financing options that allow you to install a solar panel system with little to no money up front.
Getting estimates from solar contractors in Florida
With hundreds of solar companies in Florida, follow these guidelines to help you select the best solar contractor near you:
Compare at least 3 estimates with similar details from solar companies that are at least 5 years old.
Look for Florida-licensed solar contractors who are members of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) or certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
Look at both big and small solar companies when comparing services, pricing, and warranties. Smaller, locally owned companies often have better deals; just confirm they've been in business for several years and have a good reputation for quality work.
Hire a reputable solar company that is licensed, bonded, and insured.
Confirm their credentials and online customer reviews from HomeGuide and Google.
Be wary of companies marketing completely free solar panels as they may be a scam. If the deal looks too good to be true, it usually is.
Don't pay in full before the installation is complete.
Questions to ask a Florida-licensed solar installer
Ask these important questions when researching Florida solar panel installers near you:
What experience do you have installing solar panels in Florida?
Should I replace my roof before installing a solar panel system?
What solar panels do you recommend for my roof type?
What is the typical payback period for this solar panel installation?
How much can I expect to save per year with these solar panels?
Can you provide an estimate with a breakdown of everything that's included?
What extra costs might come up when you're installing the solar panels?
What type of inverter do you recommend for my system, and why?
Is an ongoing inspection and maintenance plan included with the installation?
Do you offer any financing or payment plans?
What rebates and incentives are available, and will you help me obtain them?
How long is the warranty, and what exactly does it cover?
How do you calculate what size solar system I need for my home?
Will there be room to add more panels later if my energy needs increase?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.