Solar Power Florida

Solar Power Florida: Back in 2006 Florida's state government set up the Solar Energy System Incentives Program. This allocated $3.8 million for the installation of new photovoltaic solar systems and solar hot water systems. The grants even stretch to helping with the cost of pool solar heaters.

They are still accepting applications for rebates on systems, even though funding for the running of the project in 2009-2010 has not been approved. Still, if you are in no hurry to get an installation and are not planning to move house in the next few years, you might want to look into applying to the program.

Details Of The Program

The Solar Power Florida scheme has several requirements that must be met before you are eligible for the rebate.

1. The system is installed by a state-licensed master electrician, electrical contractor, or solar contractor.

2. The system to be installed must be of at least a 2kW capacity.

3. The system must be constructed entirely from new components and must be installed AFTER the rebate has been approved.

4. The system complies with state interconnection standards as provided by the commission.

5. The system complies with all applicable building codes as defined by the local jurisdictional authority.

For hot water services, the unit must supply at least 50% of the home's hot water.

How Much?

The Florida scheme offers a rebate of $4 per watt, which means at least $8000 off the cost of a home installation. Once federal tax credits are factored in, that makes for a cheap solar power system.

Credits For Excess Electricity

The amount of credit you are able to receive on excess energy produced and fed into the grid is dependent on where you live and the policies of the local energy company. Some pay for returned electricity while others don't. It is certainly worthwhile checking with your local energy company what the story is. You can then factor this information into the cost of the system.

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