Note: In July 2024, SunPower notified dealers it would be halting all new shipments and project installations. The company also noted it would “no longer be supporting new Leases and PPA sales nor new project installations of these financing options.”
Installing solar panels in Florida costs between $20,000 and $29,000 on average, before factoring in incentives. With the 30% federal solar tax credit, the typical Florida homeowner pays around $20,367 after rebates.
While Florida has lower-than-average solar costs per watt, homeowners in the state use more electricity than the national average, meaning most need a slightly larger system. Factors like system size, panel brand, and installer pricing also influence the final cost.
Going solar can save Florida homeowners over $21,000 in electricity costs over 25 years, making it a worthwhile investment. In this guide, we’ll break down the factors that determine solar panel prices in Florida, financing options, and how to maximize your savings.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in Florida?
In Florida, solar panels cost an average of $2.53 per watt. Since most households need an 11.5-kilowatt (kW) system to cover their energy use, that puts the total cost at $29,095 before incentives.
Thanks to the 30% federal solar tax credit (ITC), the average Florida homeowner pays around $20,367 after rebates.
What Determines Your Total Solar Cost?
The size of your system is the biggest factor in determining cost. Larger homes and higher energy consumption require bigger systems, which increase the price. Here’s a breakdown of typical system costs before and after incentives:
| System Size (kW) | Monthly Energy Use (kWh) | Home Size (sq. ft.) | Total Cost (Before Incentives) | Cost After Federal ITC | Estimated Lifetime Savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 kW | 900 kWh | 1,500 sq. ft. | $22,770 | $15,939 | $16,191 |
| 10 kW | 1,000 kWh | 1,700 sq. ft. | $25,300 | $17,710 | $17,990 |
| 11 kW | 1,100 kWh | 1,900 sq. ft. | $27,830 | $19,481 | $19,789 |
| 12 kW | 1,200 kWh | 2,100 sq. ft. | $30,360 | $21,252 | $21,588 |
| 13 kW | 1,300 kWh | 2,300 sq. ft. | $32,890 | $23,023 | $23,387 |
| 14 kW | 1,400 kWh | 2,500 sq. ft. | $35,420 | $24,794 | $25,186 |
| 15 kW | 1,500 kWh | 2,700 sq. ft. | $37,950 | $26,565 | $26,985 |
Since Florida gets plenty of sunshine, you may not need panels with the highest efficiency, which can help lower costs. Choosing a system that meets your energy needs without overspending is key to maximizing your return on investment.
What Affects Solar Panel Costs in Florida?
Several factors impact the cost of going solar in Florida, but the three biggest are:
- The brand and type of equipment you choose
- The size of your solar system
- The installation company you hire
Let’s break these down:
1. Equipment Brand and Type
Not all solar panels are the same. Premium brands like Maxeon cost around $3.30 per watt, while the average cost per watt in Florida is $2.53. While top-tier panels offer better efficiency, Florida’s abundant sunshine means you don’t always need the most expensive option.
Best value brands: Q Cells, Trina, and Canadian Solar panels offer a good balance of price, efficiency, and durability, making them solid choices for Florida homeowners.
Other equipment, like solar batteries and EV chargers, also affects your total cost. A Tesla Powerwall battery costs between $10,000 and $14,000, but most homeowners don’t need a battery in Florida due to statewide net metering policies (which let you sell excess energy back to the grid).
2. System Size Matters
The larger the system, the higher the cost. The average Florida home uses 1,142 kWh per month, which means most homeowners need an 11.5-kW solar system — costing around $29,000 before incentives or $20,367 after the federal tax credit.
| System Size (kW) | Monthly Energy Use (kWh) | Estimated Cost Before Incentives | Cost After Federal ITC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 kW | 1,000 kWh | $25,300 | $17,710 |
| 11.5 kW | 1,142 kWh (Avg.) | $29,095 | $20,367 |
| 12 kW | 1,200 kWh | $30,360 | $21,252 |
3. Installation Company Pricing Varies
Solar installers charge different rates for labor, equipment, and additional services. Some companies offer discounts on specific brands, while others may include extra fees for permits or administration.
To get the best deal, compare multiple quotes from reputable Florida installers. Most companies provide free estimates, so shopping around can save you thousands., so there’s no downside to taking your time and exploring your options before making a decision.
Featured Video: Learn Whether Solar Panels Are Worth it In Florida
Are There Any Additional Solar Costs in Florida?
Beyond equipment, system size, and installation fees, you may encounter a few extra costs when going solar in Florida:
- Building Permits – Florida requires homeowners to get permits before installing rooftop solar. These typically cost $50 to $250, though many installers include them in their pricing. Always confirm if permit fees are covered in your quote.
- Administrative Fees – Some solar companies charge small fees for handling paperwork, such as connecting your system to the grid or setting up net metering with your utility provider.
- Extra Equipment – Adding solar batteries ($10,000–$14,000) or EV chargers will increase your total cost. While batteries are useful for backup power, Florida’s net metering program allows most homeowners to skip them without losing savings.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
What Are the Maintenance Costs for Solar Panels in Florida?
Good news — solar panels require very little maintenance in Florida. Thanks to the state’s frequent rainfall, panels stay naturally clean, so routine cleaning isn’t necessary like it is in drier, dustier climates.
Here’s what homeowners should expect:
- DIY Inspections – A visual check a few times a year is usually enough. Look for dirt buildup, shading from new tree growth, or signs of damage.
- Professional Maintenance – Most homeowners don’t need annual maintenance packages, despite some companies offering them. If your system isn’t performing as expected, call your installer for a checkup instead of paying for unnecessary contracts.
- Warranty Coverage – Most solar panels come with a 25-year warranty, and many manufacturers also cover inverters for 10–15 years. If an electrical issue arises, your installer will likely handle repairs at no cost.
Unless you notice a performance drop or physical damage, your system should run smoothly with little to no extra cost.
Is Florida a Good State for Solar Panel Costs?
Solar panel costs per watt are much lower in Florida than they are in most states. The cost per watt for a solar power system in Florida is $2.53, which is $0.13 below the national average of $2.66 per watt. For an 11.5 kW system — the average system size in Florida — that means a total cost of $29,095 versus more than $30,500.
Unfortunately, comparing the cost of an 11.5 kW system in Florida to the cost of an 11.5 kW system in other states isn’t really the right comparison to make. Florida homeowners consume more energy battling the state’s heat and humidity than the residents of other states, which means that the average system size is higher in Florida than it is elsewhere.
A better comparison to make is the cost of a 9 kW system at the national average price of $2.66 per watt, with the cost of an 11.5 kW system at Florida’s average cost per watt of $2.53. The national average total cost comes out to $23,940, while the average total system cost in Florida is $29,095.
The bottom line is that Florida residents need to look for good financing options and take advantage of the state’s solar incentives to make it easier to afford a solar installation and encourage people to invest in renewable energy.
How Your Financing Choice Affects Solar Savings in Florida
Your financing method plays a huge role in your long-term solar savings. While paying in cash offers the most savings, loans, leases, and power purchase agreements (PPAs) provide other options for homeowners who can’t afford the upfront cost.
Solar Financing Options at a Glance
| Financing Method | Total 25-Year Savings | Upfront Costs | Monthly Payments | Payback Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cash Purchase | $21,632 | $20,367 | $0 | 12 years |
| Solar Loan | $16,500 | $0 | $85–$215 | 17 years |
| Solar Lease | $5,000 | $0 | $115 | N/A (No Ownership) |
| Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) | $4,000 | $0 | $115 | N/A (No Ownership) |
Best Financing Options for Florida Homeowners
- Cash Purchase (Best Long-Term Savings)
Paying in full upfront gives you the highest savings over time since you avoid interest and loan fees. You also qualify for the 30% federal solar tax credit, reducing your system’s total cost. - Solar Loan (Best for Most Homeowners)
A loan allows you to finance your system with $0 upfront costs while still qualifying for the federal tax credit. Monthly payments range from $85–$215, and you own the system once the loan is paid off.
Financing Options with Lower Savings
- Solar Lease (Lower Monthly Costs, No Ownership)
Leasing lets you go solar with no upfront cost, but you don’t own the system or qualify for tax incentives. Over 25 years, you save much less compared to a loan or cash purchase. - Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) (Least Savings)
A PPA lets you buy solar energy at a discounted rate, but you don’t own the panels or benefit from tax credits. While this can reduce your electricity bill, the savings are minimal.
Key Takeaway:
For maximum savings, cash or a solar loan is the best choice. Leases and PPAs offer convenience but provide significantly lower savings in the long run.
How To Save Money on Solar Panels in Florida
A home solar system is a big investment, but Florida homeowners have several ways to reduce costs and maximize savings.
Solar Incentives in Florida
The biggest way to save is by taking advantage of federal and state solar incentives:
1. Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC)
- Offers 30% off your total solar system cost as a tax credit (not a refund).
- Only benefits those who owe federal taxes.
2. Florida State Incentives
- Net Metering – Earn bill credits for excess energy your system produces, helping offset costs at night or on cloudy days.
- Property Tax Exemption – Your home’s value increases with solar, but your property taxes won’t.
- Sales Tax Exemption – Avoid the 6% state sales tax on solar equipment.
- Utility Rebates – Some Florida power companies offer rebates to help lower upfront costs.
Tip: Florida requires utility companies to offer net metering, so you’ll have access to it no matter where you live.
Why Most Florida Homeowners Don’t Need Solar Batteries
Solar batteries store excess power, but in Florida, net metering makes them unnecessary for most homeowners. Since utilities pay you for surplus energy at the full retail rate, batteries don’t provide additional savings.
However, batteries can still be useful if:
- You want backup power for outages (especially during hurricanes).
- Florida changes net metering policies to offer lower credits for excess energy.
Choosing the Right Solar Panels
Premium panels like Maxeon offer the highest efficiency, but in Florida’s sunny climate, you don’t need top-tier panels to get great performance.
For the best balance of cost and efficiency, consider:
✅ Q Cells – Affordable, efficient, and widely available.
✅ REC Solar – High quality at a lower price than premium brands.
Ask your installer which brands they offer before committing to a system.
Key Takeaway:
To maximize savings, take advantage of incentives, skip the battery unless needed, and choose efficient but cost-effective panels.
How Much Do Florida’s Solar Installers Charge?
While the average cost of solar in Florida is $2.53 per watt, prices vary by installer based on:
- The equipment brands they offer
- Labor and installation fees
- Permit and administrative costs
Some companies provide discounts on certain brands, while others charge premium prices for top-tier panels and warranties.
Comparing Florida’s Top Solar Installers
Solar company pricing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s a look at some of Florida’s best solar installers and what they specialize in:
| Company | Best For | Estimated Cost | BBB Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| SunPower | Highest Efficiency Panels | $$$$ | A+ |
| ADT Solar | Best Warranty Coverage | $$$ | A+ |
| Blue Raven Solar | Best Financing Options | $$ | A+ |
| Momentum Solar | Best Customer Service | $$ | A+ |
| SunVena | Top Local Installer | $$ | A+ |
| Solar Bear | Outstanding Local Option | $$ | A+ |
Tip: Always compare multiple quotes before committing to an installer. Most reputable companies offer free estimates, so shopping around can save you thousands.
How Are Solar Costs and Regulations Trending In Florida?
In general, solar has been getting more affordable in Florida over the last decade. The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) reports that the cost of solar in Florida has fallen 54% over the last ten years. It is natural to assume that the trend will continue as monocrystalline photovoltaic (PV) technology becomes more mainstream and cheaper to manufacture, but that’s not a guarantee.
I expect that solar costs in Florida will be lower in the next five to ten years, but I don’t think it’s worth waiting to install solar later, hoping for lower prices. Investing in solar panels now will let you start saving money on electric bills sooner, offsetting the money you’d save by waiting for lower prices.
Additionally, experts expect the cost of electricity to increase in Florida for the foreseeable future due to inflation and the increasing scarcity of fossil fuels used in commercial power plants.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Here are the answers to a few of the questions people ask me most often about the cost of solar panels in Florida.
FAQs About Florida Solar Panel Costs
Yes. Solar panels are a great investment for most Florida homeowners. With the state’s abundant sunshine and strong net metering policies, you can significantly lower your electricity bill.
The average payback period is 12 years, meaning after that, your solar system produces free electricity. Over 25 years, the typical Florida homeowner saves around $21,632—and with rising energy costs, those savings could be even higher.
Additionally, Florida offers several solar incentives, like property tax exemptions and sales tax savings, that make solar even more affordable.
On average, Florida homeowners break even in about 12 years if they pay for their system upfront. This means the money saved on electricity covers the system’s cost within that period.
If you finance your system with a solar loan, the payback period may be longer—typically 15 to 17 years, depending on loan terms. Leasing or using a power purchase agreement (PPA) means no ownership, so savings are minimal compared to buying outright.
The average Florida homeowner saves $21,632 over 25 years, assuming they install an 11.5-kW system and pay in cash. If energy prices rise, the savings could be even higher.
Savings depend on factors like energy use, system size, financing method, and available incentives. Homeowners who finance with a loan still see substantial savings, while those who lease or use a PPA save the least.
