With more than 230 sunny days a year, it isn’t surprising that solar energy is growing tremendously in Florida. Florida, known as The Sunshine State, is among the most solar-friendly places in the U.S. — both climatically and for potential cost savings. But in 2025, is solar still a good investment for Florida homeowners?
The short answer is yes, and in many instances it’s never been more financially and environmentally advantageous. But the long answer? It depends on some key factors such as system size, your utility provider, available incentives, and whether you’re open to a DIY solar system or want one professionally installed.
This article will explain the true cost of going solar, detail how Florida’s policies work and even include real-life homeowner examples — so you can determine if solar power is a good investment for your home.
Florida Solar Installation Costs in 2025
Let’s begin with the most common question homeowners want answered first: How much does it cost to go solar in Florida in 2025?
Average Installation Costs:
| System Size | Pre-Incentive Cost | After 30% Tax Credit |
|---|---|---|
| 5kW | $12,000 – $15,500 | $8,400 – $10,850 |
| 7kW | $16,500 – $20,000 | $11,550 – $14,000 |
| 10kW | $24,000 – $31,000 | $16,800 – $21,700 |
Installers in Florida have slashed prices nearly 50% in the last decade. A typical 10kW solar power system is ideal for homes with higher electricity usage, such as those with:
Electric vehicles (EVs)
Pool or pond equipment (like solar power aerators for ponds)
Larger families or multi-zone HVAC systems
Water heating needs via solar system water heaters
If you’re even only running the essentials, smaller systems (4–6kW) are still well worth considering — and particularly if you intend to expand down the track.
DIY Solar System: A Growing Trend
There is no shortage of DIY house solar systems available to Florida homeowners, ranging from kits to home-assembled systems. This drives your installation costs down by 20–40%, which is great but you must keep in mind:
- Design specification and permitting constraints
- Alignment with roof, as well as load carry capacity
- Selecting components (panels, Go Power solar controllers, inverters, batteries)
- You have electrical knowledge or hire a licensed contractor to do the final connection
Florida has a DIY-friendly law, though specific counties may have their own regulations or inspection requirements, so always check with your local municipality before beginning any work.
Return on Investment (ROI): How Much Can You Save?
Solar energy isn’t only about saving the planet — it’s also a smart financial move in the long run. Here’s what the numbers usually look like in Florida:
Key ROI Drivers:
Annual savings on electricity: $1,100 to $1,500
Average payback period: 7–10 years
System lifespan: 25–30 years
Your lifetime total savings: $25,000 – $45,000+
And it gets even better: Houses with solar systems typically sell faster and fetch higher values. Zillow reports average homes with solar sell for 4.1% more.
Energy Independence Bonus:
Want to take it even further? Pairing solar with a battery system or connecting to a solar power substation can give you partial or full energy independence — especially important during outages or storms.
Net Metering: Florida’s Policy in 2025
Florida has one of the most favorable net metering programs in the U.S. Under current law:
- You’re credited for full retail value for any excess electricity your system exports to the grid.
- Credits roll over from month to month, which can help offset lower production during cloudy or rainy seasons.
- Applies to systems of 2 MW or less — i.e. virtually any installation serving a home.
“The arrangement is ideal for those who want to stay connected to the U.S. power grid but also have a backup system or power credits for future use.”
Caution: Though net metering is protected for now, there have been moves in the legislature to cut back on the benefits. Going solar sooner locks in your current policy terms.
Maintenance, Repairs, and Longevity
Solar systems need minimal maintenance compared to traditional power systems.
Typical Maintenance Costs:
| Item | Frequency | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Panel cleaning | 1–2x per year | $100 – $150 |
| System inspection | Annually | $150 – $250 |
| Inverter replacement | Every 10–15 years | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Go Power solar controller check | As needed | Often under warranty |
Most solar panels have a 25-year performance warranty, while many inverters and batteries except deep cycle batteries are covered by warranties of 10–15 years. If you have an off-grid or hybrid setup, you will regularly check on your solar power substation and battery bank to ensure everything is working optimally.
User Experiences: What Florida Homeowners Say About Going Solar
Amelia in Venice
“We paid more than $200/month in energy.” We put in a 10kW solar power system in early 2024, and now we’re averaging less than $30/month. Some months, we even get credits back!”
Hudson (DO IT YOURSELF) Jacksonville
“I installed a used solar panel and a Go Power controller to make a DIY solar system. Total cost less than $9,000, and I have already saved more than $1,800 in the first year.”
Evelyn in Lakeland
We installed a solar system water heater and a solar aerator for our pond. It lowered our electric bill and our fish are doing great — win-win!”
Advantages and Disadvantages of Solar Panels in Florida
Advantages:
✅ More sun, More energy output
✅ Substantial long-term savings
✅ Increases property value
✅ Tax breaks lower the initial cost
✅ Minimal maintenance required
Disadvantages:
❌ High upfront cost (even after incentives)
❌ Uses data as recent as October 2023
❌ The savings depend on the specific utility and your location
❌ Net metering rules may change
Nonetheless, for the vast majority of Florida homeowners, the benefits clearly outweigh the drawbacks — especially with rising electric rates.
Florida Solar Incentives & Programs in 2025
Here are the incentives that make solar even more enticing:
Active Programs:
- Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC): 30% discount on total system cost
- Florida Impact Fees Exemption: No impact fee for solar system improvement
- State Sales Tax Exemption: Exemption from state sales tax for also equipment and installation
- Utility rebates: From providers like FPL, Duke Energy, Tampa Electric and others
Tip: Additional rebates are available in certain counties. Call your city or county energy department for hidden gems.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions
1. Solar Worth It Florida Reddit?
Absolutely. In fact, some of the reasons that Florida Reddit users said they recommend going solar — particularly battery backup systems in conjunction a solar array — were reduced electric bills, fast ROI and peace of mind during outages.
2. Can I actually get free solar panels in Florida?
Some companies market “free solar panels,” but it usually means you’re signing up for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). You won’t be paying anything upfront, but you’re still making monthly payments, and you might not own the system.
3. Does it still make sense to go solar in Orlando?
Definitely. With a robust solar irradiance and advantageous OUC (Orlando Utilities Commission) net metering policies, Orlando is a solid solar market. In fact, many Orlando homeowners break even in less than 8 years!
4. What are Florida’s top solar companies?
Here are 10 of the best-rated solar companies to consider:
Sunrun
Tesla Solar
ADT Solar
Solar Source (Florida-based)
Blue Raven
SunPower
Momentum Solar
Freedom Forever
Elevation Solar
Palmetto Solar
Always run quotes, warranties, and customer reviews before signing.
5. What will solar panels cost in Florida in 2025?
Panels alone can cost anywhere from $2.40–$3.10 per watt, with a 6kW system running about $15,000–$18,500 and a 10kW system running from $24,000–$31,000 before incentives.
Key Takes: Should You Go Solar in Florida in 2025?
Yes — solar remains one of the wisest investments Florida homeowners can make in 2025.
From Florida’s generous sunlight and compelling federal and state incentives to ever-increasing electricity prices and strong net metering policies — there’s no storage ROI and long-term savings that can match what solar provides today.
Whether you’re going all in with a 10kW system, getting a solar water heater, or just dipping your toes into the water with a DIY solar-grade system, now’s the time to cash in on all Florida solar has to offer.
