Net metering is the system that power companies use to credit you back for excess energy that you sell back to the grid during peak solar energy production hours. This helps offset the cost of electricity you later buy from the grid at night or on cloudy days when production isn't enough to cover your use. Net metering policies differ from state to state – some states it's really worth it, while others not so much. Some may see that as better than nothing, while others might look for better options. When the net metering offer isn't so favorable in your local area, its often a better option to add a battery storage system so that you can store your excess energy to use during off-peak hours, instead of selling it back to the grid for not nearly enough.
What are the financial benefits of solar energy?
When you install a solar energy system on your property, you save money on your electricity bills and protect yourself against rising electricity rates in the future. And we KNOW for sure rates will continue to rise for the next few years, as the rate increases aren't inflation related, they were lobbied for and approved by the Governor before this post-Covid inflation cycle ever started. How much you can save depends on the utility rates and solar policies in your area, but going solar is a smart investment regardless of where you live.
What are the environmental benefits of solar energy?
Going solar reduces greenhouse gas emissions and results in fewer air pollutants like sulfur dioxide and particulate matter, which can cause health problems. Also, despite the greenwashing efforts local power companies are trying to push upon us in TV commercials, they're not promoters of solar energy and repeatedly spend millions of dollars lobbying against solar-friendly regulations. Don't fall for it!! Most of the energy sold by FPL is produced using natural gas and coal. So by going solar, you'd be helping to reduce our reliance on those damaging industries.
What size solar energy system do I need to get?
The size of your solar energy system will depend on how much electricity you use on a monthly basis, as well as the weather conditions where you live. During your EcoPower assessment, we'll review your electric bills for the previous 12 months and estimate a custom-sized solar array that fits your specific needs based on annual production and usage.
Where do I find how many Kilowatts of electricity my household uses each month?
The best way is to check your power bill, and focus on what your consumption is in Kilowatt Hours (kWh). Its more accurate to go by the kilowatt consumption instead of what your bill is, because the price can include fees and surcharges and late fees that have nothing to do with consumption. Not to mention the fact that different areas will sometimes have different rates, so one person's bill might be higher or lower than someone else who has the same exact consumption, so go by the consumption, not the price.
How much will solar panel maintenance cost?
Great news! Solar panel systems are made of durable tempered glass and require little to no maintenance for the 25 to 35 years that they will generate power. In most cases, you don’t even need to clean your solar panels regularly. If something does happen, most equipment manufacturers include a 25-year Warranty, plus EcoPower NRG will remain in contact for any service calls, and to give your system a checkup after a major storm rolls through
How long will my solar energy system last?
In general, solar panels are very durable and capable of withstanding Category 5 hurricanes, torrential rains, and even hail. Your system should continue to generate electricity for 25 to 35 years with very minor (if any) maintenance issues during that period. Solar energy systems come with a 25-Year Warranty, but can continue working reliably for even 35 to 40 years with an 80 to 85% efficiency. Panels and components will no doubt be leaps and bounds more efficient and cheaper in 25 years, so if you decide to upgrade to the newest generation at that time, you'll continue saving and keeping FPL out of your pockets.
Can my community have solar installation codes or restrictions?
Florida law forbids any institution or homeowners’ association (HOA) from prohibiting installation of solar panels. An association may require an application for solar and have a set of requirements, but they can't outright prevent you from having a system installed. Any restrictions must be reasonable and uniform for all residents.
How does solar impact my property's value when I sell my home?
If you own your solar energy system, studies have repeatedly shown that solar increases a property's values at the time of sale. Think about it, if you're comparing two houses to buy, and one of them included free electricity––that's obviously a huge selling point! It is important to note that your property value at the time of sale will only increase if you own system, otherwise the loan will need to be paid off first, or the loan or lease will need to be transferred to the new owner, and the boost in value won't be near'y as high.
In any case, any boosts in property value should be seen as just a Bonus and not part of a real estate speculation strategy. The key benefits of solar are saving money on your electricity bills, and the environmental benefits from switching to renewable sustainable energy.
INSTALLATION RELATED
Do I need to replace my roof before installing solar?
Solar energy systems can last for 25 to 35 years, and it can be costly to remove and reinstall them if you need to replace your roof. If you think your roof will need major repairs or need to be replaced within the next 10 or so years, you should complete it before you finish your solar installation.
How does EcoPower NRG determine my home’s suitability for solar?
EcoPower NRG will complete a solar assessment to help you determine if your home is suitable for solar. The assessment reviews previous energy usage at your location to assist you in sizing a solar array that will potentially reduce your utility-supplied power consumption. Also included in the assessment is information about panels, inverters, roof orientation, solar billing, net metering, insurance requirements, energy-efficiency suggestions, FAQs and more.
How long does a typical solar system installation take?
An average home takes no more than a day. We do everything possible to get it completed within an day, which obviously is dependent on having clear access to the meter and the roof being in ready-to-install condition.
What types of roofs are best for solar, and which are probably not the best?
Solar can be successfully installed on all types of roofs commonly found in South Florida–– ashphalt shingle, commercial flat roofs, spanish tile roofs, metal roofs, and more. The best type of roof for solar, hands down, is a metal roof, particularly if it's a Standing Seam metal roof. Not only are they the best type of roof you could possibly have in Florida, but they also are ideal natural anchors for a Solar Energy system. On the opposite end, if your roof is covered with something unique like slate tiles or cedar shake, the installation can still be completed but may take longer and be more expensive as the installers will have to take more care not to damage the delicate roof materials. Those types of roofs aren't common in South Florida (for a reason!)
I recently had a new roof installed and it has a warranty. Will my warranty be voided if I were to get solar?
In most cases, solar panels will not void your roof warranty as long as your installer follows the roofing manufacturer's instructions. Our EcoPower team is experienced with installing systems on all types of residential and commercial roofs, so your warranty will remain intact.
FINANCING RELATED
I'm not sure I can afford to go solar. How do I know if I can?
If you can afford to pay your electricity bill you can afford to go solar. Plus, we provide several options to go solar with $0-down financing, make it even easier for homeowners with good credit to start saving on their electricity bills right away.
Will I still receive an electric bill if I have solar panels?
In order to offset your bill completely, your solar energy system will need to match or exceed your energy use, and you'll need a battery energy storage system to avoid using the grid at night. However, even if you were to wipe out your entire bill, your local power company will still send you a bill usually consisting of a standard connection charge which for FPL is around $9/month.
What solar energy rebates and incentives are available?
Solar rebates and incentives vary depending on where you live. The most significant is the 30 percent federal investment tax credit (ITC), which allows you to deduct 30 percent of the cost of your solar energy system from your taxes. The solar federal tax credit dropped to 26% in 2020, but the Inflation Reduction Act restored the original 30% rate in 2022. Florida does not offer any statewide tax credits, but some local cities/municipalities and utilities may sometimes offer cash rebates or other incentives. Additionally, businesses can depreciate the cost of their solar system like a normal investment in equipment.
EcoPower keeps track of all available incentives in the areas we work in, and will immediately let you know what incentives you qualify for. As a tiny consolation, Florida does waive the state sales tax requirement on all of your solar system, so in a way, you're kind of saving 6%, which is better than nothing. Gee, thanks Governor.
Do solar panels continue to work in a blackout?
Possibly, and most likely. Unless you live in a cabin out in the woods, Florida basically requires any urban dwelling to be connected to the grid, and it will shut off in the event of a blackout. This is to prevent emergency responders and electricity utility repair people from being electrocuted by the energy your system is sending back to the grid. However, there are newer hybrid systems available that provide backup power in a blackout or after a major tropical storm.
What is the difference between secured solar loans and unsecured solar loans?
The main difference is that secured solar loans require that you promise an asset, usually your home, as collateral for the money that you borrow. Unsecured solar loans do not, but their interest rates are generally higher to compensate for the increased risk taken on by the lender.
What are my solar financing options?
With EcoPower NRG there are three main financing options for home and commercial solar: you can purchase your system in cash or take out a solar loan to buy your system. EcoPower NRG has strong relationships with a number of different lenders including local and national banks, specialty financing companies such as PACE, and several credit unions. As a third option, if none of those options work out, there is also the opportunity to enter our EcoPower BillSaver℠ program, which is what most of our clients prefer anyway.
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