Florida Solar Panel Savings Calculator

Florida Solar Panel Savings Overview

Florida receives an average of 5.5 peak sun hours per day, making it an excellent state for solar energy production. With electricity rates averaging 14.2¢ per kWh — near the national average — solar offers competitive savings. The typical Florida homeowner with a 6kW system can expect to save approximately $1,520 per year.

Solar Energy Production in Florida

A standard 6kW residential solar panel system in Florida produces approximately 9,636 kWh per year. This accounts for a system efficiency factor of 80%, which includes panel degradation, inverter losses, and temperature effects. With 5.5 peak sun hours, Florida ranks among the top states in the country for solar production potential.

Florida Electricity Rates and Solar Context

The average residential electricity rate in Florida is 14.2¢ per kWh according to EIA data. While this rate is below the national average, electricity costs are rising approximately 2-3% per year. Over a 25-year system lifetime, your cumulative savings will still be substantial. With utility rates increasing annually, your solar savings grow each year.

Florida Solar Incentive Programs

Property tax exemption for solar. Sales tax exemption. Federal 30% ITC. No state income tax. All Florida residents are eligible for the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which reduces the cost of a solar system by 30% of the total installed price. Florida also offers full retail net metering, allowing homeowners to earn credits for excess solar energy sent back to the grid.

Net Metering in Florida

Florida has full retail net metering, which is a significant financial benefit for solar homeowners. Under full retail net metering, you receive credit at the full retail electricity rate for every kilowatt-hour of excess solar energy you export to the grid. This is the most favorable policy for solar homeowners.

Best Cities for Solar in Florida

The best cities for solar panels in Florida include Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa, Orlando, St. Petersburg. Solar production can vary by location within the state due to differences in cloud cover, local shading, and microclimates. Southern-facing roofs with minimal shading produce the most energy. Homeowners in Jacksonville and Miami can typically expect production close to the state average of 5.5 peak sun hours per day.

How Florida Compares to Neighboring States

Compared to neighboring states, Florida (14.2¢/kWh, 5.5 sun hours) has better sun exposure and has similar electricity rates. See how solar savings compare in Georgia, and Alabama.