Solar Incentives

Florida offers various solar incentives to promote the adoption of solar energy. Please note that incentive programs can change over time, so it's essential to verify the current availability and details of these incentives with the relevant authorities or organizations. Here are some solar incentives and programs that were available in Florida:

  • Solar and CHP Sales Tax Exemption: Solar energy systems and combined heat and power (CHP) systems used for residential or commercial purposes are exempt from Florida's state sales tax. This exemption applies to the purchase of solar panels and related equipment.
  • Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Devices: Florida law allows a property tax exemption for renewable energy devices installed on residential properties. This incentive ensures that the added value of solar panels and other renewable energy systems is not factored into the property's assessed value for tax purposes.
  • Net Metering: Florida has a net metering program that allows residential and commercial solar customers to receive credits for excess electricity generated by their solar panels and fed back into the grid. These credits can offset future electricity bills.
  • PACE Financing Programs: Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing programs are available in some Florida counties and cities. PACE programs provide financing options for energy-efficient and renewable energy improvements, including solar installations. Property owners can repay the financing through their property tax assessments.
  • Utility Solar Rebates and Incentives: Some Florida utilities offer their customers solar rebates and incentives. These programs may include cash rebates, performance-based incentives, or other financial incentives to encourage the installation of solar panels.
  • Solar Rights Laws: Florida has laws in place that protect homeowners' rights to install solar panels on their properties, ensuring that homeowner associations and local regulations do not unreasonably restrict solar installations.
  • Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC): While not a state-specific incentive, Florida residents and businesses are eligible for the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This credit provides a substantial tax benefit for the installation of solar energy systems, allowing individuals to deduct a percentage of their solar project costs from their federal income taxes.
  • Solar Energy Equipment Sales Tax Exemption: Solar energy equipment, including solar water heaters, solar pool heating systems, and other solar technologies, is exempt from state sales tax in Florida.
  • Renewable Energy Property Tax Exemption: In addition to the property tax exemption for solar panels, renewable energy property, including solar installations, may qualify for a 100% property tax exemption if certain conditions are met.

Please keep in mind that the availability and details of these incentives may change, and new programs may have been introduced since my last update. To get the most up-to-date information on solar incentives in Florida, it's advisable to consult with your local utility company, the Florida Solar Energy Center, or the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, which oversees renewable energy programs in the state. Additionally, consider reaching out to certified solar installers and financial institutions that may offer specific incentives or financing options for solar installations.