Florida is known as the Sunshine State due to its abundant sunshine and warm climate. Many homeowners in Florida are considering solar roofs as an energy-effective and environmentally friendly option. It’s a great way to save on your energy bill and reduce your carbon footprint. There are both pros and cons of installing a solar roof.
The Pros of Getting a Solar Roof in Florida
Solar roof helps lower electric bills and provides a steady source of electricity during events like hurricanes. Since Florida is the third highest state in carbon emissions, the state government offers fiscal incentives to residents who choose solar power. These factors have combined to make Florida the third-ranked state in domestic solar installation in the US. Here are some pros of getting a solar roof in Florida.
Lowering your Energy Bill
Receiving considerable sunshine throughout the year, Florida is a well-suited site for producing solar energy. Solar panels installed on your roof can capture this abundant sunlight and convert it into electricity for your home. Consistent sunshine provides possibilities for creating renewable energy, likely reducing your dependence on the power grid.
One of the most substantial advantages of installing a solar roof is the likelihood of drastically reducing your energy expenditures. By producing your electricity, you can cut down your reliance on conventional power supplies. In some scenarios, you can produce extra electricity to be sold back to the grid, providing added savings or credits on your utility expenses.
Environmental Benefits
Employing solar energy is an eco-friendly choice that lessens your environmental impact. By using the sun’s light, you cut back the requirement for fossil fuels and minimize greenhouse gas emissions. It helps contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Powering your house using solar helps reduce the load on the power utilities. Since the energy generated can be stored in batteries, you do not have to depend on fuel-guzzling generators as a backup in case of power outages.
Protection from Power Outages
Power outages are a common occurrence in Florida. Events such as hurricanes, aging transmission lines, and overloads cause the grid to go down frequently. Recent calamities such as Hurricane Ian have increased the interest in solar panels and batteries.
During the days-long outage faced by Floridians during Ian, households with solar panels had uninterrupted power supply. Solar panels are a lifeline during such situations.
Solar Incentives and Rebates
The state of Florida and the federal government offer various incentives and rebates to motivate the utilization of solar energy. These fiscal incentives can assist with mitigating the first-time cost of fitting a solar roof, making it more affordable.
The Federal government offers a 30% solar tax credit under their Federal Solar Tax Incentive Credit. Florida state government offers a 100% property tax exemption for residential and an 80% property tax abatement for commercial solar projects. No sales tax is added on solar equipment either. You can sell the excess energy you produce back to the utility company as well. Make sure to take advantage of existing initiatives to maximize your savings.
Increased Property Value
Homes featuring solar roofs are often more attractive to prospective buyers. A solar roof is commonly viewed as a worthwhile addition that can amplify the worth of your property when it is time to sell. It is not merely a way to improve your current energy consumption but can be a sound investment for future monetary gains. Zillow has conducted research where they found out that homes with solar panels are valued at 4.1% higher than a similar house without one.
Net Metering
Florida embraces the concept of net metering, which allows those with solar panel roofs to transmit surplus energy back into the electric network. This additional power is logged into your account, cutting your power bills.
Net metering guarantees you are suitably compensated for the additional power you generate. The credit back is a 1:1 ratio. If you have extra credit stored by the end of the year, the electric company will pay you back at an avoided-cost rate.
Long Lifespan
Solar roof panels are intended to be tough and of extended durability. Many manufacturers offer warranties of 25 years or more, and the actual lifespan of solar panels can exceed this. Your investment will continue to remain fruitful for a long duration.
Solar companies such as CertainTeed build panels using the highest quality materials. It comes with a comprehensive 25-year warranty on the panel and the inverter. There is a 100% coverage for any manufacturing defects.
The Cons of Getting a Solar Roof in Florida
Although solar roof panels can be a great addition to a property, they might only be right for some households. Here are some cons of getting a solar roof in Florida.
High Upfront Cost
The cost of installing solar panels can be cost-prohibitive. Most homeowners require a minimum of 11.5 kWh system to see any substantial savings. These systems can cost upwards of around $29095 without rebates. There are some conditions you need to meet to claim the rebate as well.
Installing a lower-powered system is cheaper, but it needs to generate sufficient energy to run a home or give you substantial savings. The batteries degrade over time and require replacement. They also need to be cleaned regularly to get the best performance. The panels might get damaged during extreme weather events, which adds to the cost.
Aesthetics and Space Requirements
Solar panels don’t look pleasing to some homeowners. It covers most of the roof area and is bulky and unsightly. The added weight might require added reinforcement to support them. Remember that you need to meet your local requirements and obtain the necessary permits, as this is considered a home modification.
They require adequate roof area to generate the required power. If your roof is small or shaded by trees, you may need help to capitalize on the potential of solar energy.
Intermittent Energy Production
Solar energy output is reliant on the sunshine it receives. Inadequate sunshine and cloudy days will result in reduced or no energy production. The panels should receive direct sunlight and not be blocked by trees or nearby buildings.
Florida receives plenty of sunshine, but it is also prone to extreme weather conditions. You can invest in power storage systems for uninterrupted power supply.
Installing a solar roof in Florida is beneficial, especially with its plentiful sunshine and cost-saving measures. If you are looking to explore the benefits provided by this eco-friendly system, reach out to us for a free quote.