Florida, with its abundant sunshine and a growing commitment to clean energy, is a prime location...
Making informed decisions is one of the most important things when it comes to finances, housing, education, love… anything! So we gathered a good set of 10 questions and answers that most of our customers have while thinking about switching to solar.
Enjoy!
1. What are the financial benefits of switching to solar power in Miami?
Answer: Homeowners can significantly reduce their energy bills, increase their property's value, and take advantage of substantial tax incentives when they switch to solar power.
Example: A homeowner who installs a 5kW solar system could see an immediate reduction in their monthly electric bill by 60-80%. The initial installation cost might be offset by the Federal Solar Tax Credit, and over time, the energy savings could add up to tens of thousands of dollars over the lifespan of the system.
2. How does the Miami climate contribute to the efficiency of solar panels?
Answer: Miami's abundant sunshine means solar panels can operate very efficiently, producing a substantial amount of energy and savings.
Example: With an average of over 240 sunny days per year, solar panels in Miami can produce more electricity than in less sunny locales, allowing homeowners to recover their investments more quickly through energy generation.
3. Can solar panels withstand Miami's hurricane-prone weather?
Answer: Yes, solar panels are designed to meet rigorous standards, making them capable of withstanding the force of hurricanes common in Miami.
Example: During a category 4 hurricane, a solar-powered home remained unaffected, with the solar panels securely attached, thanks to stringent installation standards that include wind load requirements specific to hurricane-prone areas.
4. What environmental benefits does solar power offer in Miami?
Answer: Using solar power helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, contributing to a cleaner environment.
Example: For each kilowatt-hour of solar power generated, a typical residential solar system in Miami can offset nearly one pound of carbon dioxide, amounting to thousands of pounds over its lifetime, which is a significant environmental contribution.
5. How does solar power impact the local economy in Miami?
Answer: Solar energy creates jobs in installation, maintenance, and manufacturing and keeps energy spending locally.
Example: A local solar project can create direct jobs for installers and indirect jobs for those in the supply chain and service industries, thus bolstering the local economy and keeping more money circulating within the community.
6. Will solar power work during power outages in Miami?
Answer: Homes with solar and battery storage systems can maintain power during outages, unlike those with only grid-tied systems.
Example: During a grid outage, customers with solar panels and integrated battery systems continue to have electricity for critical needs, such as refrigeration and lighting, while their neighbours without solar might be completely without power.
7. How does net metering work for solar users in Miami?
Answer: Net metering allows customers to receive credit for excess electricity they send back to the grid, reducing their utility bills.
Example: A solar customer generates more electricity than they use during the day, and the excess is sent to the grid (FPL, essentially). The customer then draws from the grid at night, using credits earned during the day, which can result in a net-zero energy bill.
8. What is the lifespan of a solar power system in Miami?
Answer: Solar systems can last 25 to 30 years, with many panels continuing to produce energy beyond that time.
Example: After 25 years, a solar installation could still operate at about 80% of its original capacity, meaning that a homeowner can enjoy reduced utility bills for decades after the initial investment.
Some panels, such as the REC Alpha Pure RX, can retain up to 93% of their production capacity after 25 years.
9. Can installing solar panels make my home more resilient in Miami?
Answer: Solar panels can provide energy independence and resilience against power outages and grid disruptions.
Example: In the event of a power outage, homes with solar-plus-storage systems may continue to run essential appliances uninterrupted, which enhances the home's resilience and the owner's peace of mind.
10. Is Miami’s solar energy policy supportive for homeowners who want to go solar?
Answer: Miami has favourable policies, such as net metering and property tax exemptions, which support the adoption of solar energy by homeowners.
Example: Through local incentives like the lease program, customers can finance solar installations with little to no upfront costs and make solar more accessible.
