Solar Panel Cost in Florida
Florida homeowners typically invest £14,000 to £32,000 for a complete solar system, with excellent returns due to abundant sunshine and supportive state policies.
Average installation costs
The typical residential solar installation in Florida costs:
- Small system (4-6 kW): £14,000-£21,000 before incentives
- Medium system (7-9 kW): £22,000-£30,000 before incentives
- Large system (10+ kW): £32,000-£42,000 before incentives
Florida cost advantages
Several factors keep solar costs competitive in Florida:
- High installer competition: Mature market with numerous quality installers
- Streamlined permitting: Many jurisdictions have expedited solar permit processes
- No state sales tax on solar: Equipment purchases are sales tax-exempt
- Simple roof structures: Many homes have straightforward installation conditions
Cost factors
Several factors influence your final solar cost in Florida:
- System size: Larger systems have better cost per watt
- Panel type: Standard vs premium panels affect pricing
- Hurricane resilience: Upgraded mounting and equipment for storm durability
- Roof condition: Roof repairs or upgrades may be needed before installation
- Utility territory: Different utilities have varying interconnection requirements
Financing options
Cash purchase
Paying cash offers the best long-term return, with systems typically paying for themselves in 6-8 years in Florida.
Solar loans
Many Florida homeowners use solar loans with competitive rates, enabling immediate savings whilst spreading costs over 10-20 years.
Solar leases and PPAs
Lease or power purchase agreements require no upfront cost but offer lower long-term savings compared to ownership.
Florida-specific savings
Florida offers excellent solar potential due to:
- High solar irradiance: 4.5-5.5 kWh/m²/day across the state
- Net metering: Required by state law for investor-owned utilities
- No state income tax: Federal tax credit provides full benefit
- Rising electricity rates: Average 12-14 cents per kWh and increasing
Hurricane considerations
Florida solar installations must account for hurricane resistance:
- Enhanced mounting: Systems designed for 180+ mph wind loads
- Premium racking: Upgrades may add £1,000-£2,000 to system cost
- Insurance benefits: Some insurers offer discounts for resilient solar installations
- Rapid restart: Quality systems can resume operation quickly after storms
Utility-specific considerations
Florida Power & Light (FPL)
Largest utility in Florida with straightforward net metering and interconnection processes.
Duke Energy Florida
Serves west-central Florida with competitive net metering rates and renewable energy programmes.
Tampa Electric (TECO)
Covers Tampa Bay area with solar-friendly policies and time-of-use rate options.
Getting quotes
We recommend getting quotes from at least three Florida-licensed installers. Compare total system cost, hurricane-rated equipment, warranties, and financing terms.
Key questions to ask:
- Is the system designed for Florida's hurricane requirements?
- What is the cost per watt installed?
- What panels and inverters are included?
- How long are the equipment and workmanship warranties?
- What financing options are available?
- How long will installation take?
- What is your hurricane damage and warranty policy?