The Big Guava shines bright with solar power

The state of solar in Tampa

Tampa, FL, is a mecca for tourists thanks to its stunning beaches, thrilling amusement parks, and year-round sunshine. The city gets an average of 246 days of sunshine a year, which is one of the reasons why a growing number of homes and businesses are getting solar systems.^*BestPlaces.net. “Tampa, Florida.” April 2021.

Tampa Electric plans to install a total of six million solar panels by 2023, which will make it one of the most solar-friendly cities in the state.^*Tampa Electric (TECO). “Tampa Electric Significantly Expanding Use of Solar Power.” September 2017.

How much solar energy does Tampa produce?

According to the Environment Florida Research & Policy Center, as of December 2019, Tampa ranks 29th in the U.S. for both solar capacity per capita and total installed solar capacity, with 42 Watts per person and 16.5 MW, respectfully. The city was also honored as a "Solar Leader," a city showing strong solar energy generation growth. Tampa increased its per capita rank by four spots between 2019 and 2020.

What are the advantages of going solar in Tampa?

Going solar offers a wide range of benefits, from reducing your carbon footprint to increasing your property value and protecting yourself from rising energy costs. For many home and business owners considering solar, the financial advantages are a major deciding factor.

A 5 kW system could offer nearly $1,000 in electricity cost savings per year, adding up to $20,000 to $40,000 over the system’s useful life.^*Tampa Electric (TECO). “Solar Calculator.” April 2021.

With year-round sunshine and falling solar panel system costs, there is no reason not to take advantage of solar energy in Tampa. Rapidly increasing demand for solar panel systems is also increasing jobs in the solar industry, providing employment opportunities and strengthening the economy, which benefits our community.

How much does solar cost in Tampa?

The cost of a home solar system can vary, even in the same city, due to a range of factors. These include things like:

• Where the system will be located (on a flat or sloping roof or the ground)

• The quality of solar panels you choose

• The power of the solar panels you choose

• The brand of equipment your installer uses

• System size and complexity

• Whether your system includes battery storage

To help you understand the price of going solar in your area, we've analyzed SunPower price quotes, as well as quotes gathered by third-party sources for thousands of homeowners across the country.^*Local Solar Installers 2020/2021, Solar Reviews 2021, Energy Sage 2021, Wood Mackenzie 2020, National Renewable Energy Laboratory 2020 In Tampa, we found that the cost of owning a 5 kW solar system ranges from $12,850 to $16,200, or in other words, from $2.57 to $3.24 per watt. And that's before considering the benefits of any available tax credits or incentives.

One of the best-known solar incentives in the United States is the Federal Solar Tax Credit. This credit allows eligible property owners to claim solar panel system installation costs on their taxes for a 26% credit.^*Tax credits and incentives are subject to change. Visit dsireusa.org for detailed solar policy information.

This credit goes a long way towards making solar solutions accessible to a larger percentage of Tampa residents, offsetting much of the initial cost and moving the average break-even point forward.

Florida's net metering program is an added bonus you may be able to take advantage of.^*The availability of net metering varies by location and is subject to change. Visit dsireusa.org for detailed solar policy information. With this program, your solar system will do more to reduce your energy bills. If your system generates more energy than you need, you can transfer it to the power grid for credit towards your electricity bills from any grid energy usage.

What's the best way to go solar in Tampa?

Keep in mind that the right solar PV system for your home or business will vary depending on your specific needs. The solar provider you choose will have a lot to do with your system's appearance, efficiency, and durability.

You'll also need to consider your energy needs and the amount of unshaded roof space you have available. For example, if your priorities center around keeping costs low and maintaining your home's aesthetic appeal, you might opt for a smaller setup that utilizes high-efficiency panels.

On the other hand, if you have ample roof space and don't mind paying a little more upfront, it might be worth considering a larger system from the start. That will allow you to generate surplus power that you can transfer to your utility company, which could have more long-term financial benefits.

At SunPower, we make it easy to go solar with online consultations, all-in-one solar + storage solutions, and the most efficient solar panels available. We'll assess your needs and recommend an installation that best meets your energy and savings goals.

Get started today by requesting your consultation. We'll contact you to find a time that works best with your schedule. You can also call us directly at (800) 786-7693.