What Are Florida’s Solar Laws in 2023?
With the increasing demand for clean energy, solar power has become a favorite alternative source for many households. If you live in Florida, you might be wondering if solar power is legal, what rules apply, and whether you can benefit from it. Keep reading to get a comprehensive look at Florida’s solar laws in 2023.
Solar Is Legal: Title XI Section 163.04: Energy Devices Based on Renewable Resources
There is good news for solar enthusiasts in Florida. The state has ruled that no individual or entity, including homeowners’ associations, can prevent the installation of solar panels at their property. However, certain design and appearance rules may apply, which are specific to each homeowner’s association or district.
These rules do not affect homeowners in any significant way. What this means is that you are legally entitled to install solar panels on your roof if it complies with the design and appearance requirements.
Net Metering Regulations in Florida: Title XXVII 366.91: Renewable Energy
Net metering is a crucial policy that allows residential solar to exist. When someone installs a solar panel system on their property and generates more electricity than they need at a particular time, that excess energy is sent to the power grid for other users to use.
The utility company credits the homeowner for the extra energy they produce, and when they require energy, the credits can be used. With net metering, you can replace your entire energy bill with solar, even if the energy that powers your home is not directly from the solar array all the time.
Net metering regulations are enforced on the state level in Florida. The Florida Public Service Commission regulates the rates and conditions governing the number of credits customers receive, how long they may carry them, and the maximum solar capacity for which net metering applies.
Consumer Protections: The Institute for Renewable Energy Council (IREC)’s Clean Energy Consumer Bill of Rights
Solar energy is a relatively new clean energy source and comes with a level of uncertainty. However, you can rest assured that several consumer protection laws are in place in Florida. The Institute for Renewable Energy Council (IREC) has set up a Clean Energy Consumer Bill of Rights to ensure that customers are protected while using renewable energy technology.
The Clean Energy Consumer Bill of Rights ensures that you are aware of the terms and conditions of your solar energy service contract, the number and capacity of the devices you install, and the required tax and legal implications on acquiring, selling, or leasing a solar panel system.
Solar Incentives in Florida
Florida has introduced several incentives to boost the adoption of solar energy. The most significant one is the net metering policy, but there are other incentives as well. The State of Florida allows homeowners to exempt the value of their rooftop solar panel systems from their property tax assessments.
Also, Florida offers sales-tax exemptions to consumers who install and use solar equipment, including solar panels, solar collectors, and related accessories. The state also offers rebates for low-income households and nonprofit organizations for solar installations.
Switching to Solar in Florida Has Never Made More Sense
As demand for solar power rises, Florida’s solar laws have made it possible for residents to benefit from clean energy sources. Want to discover how clean energy can help you reduce or even eliminate your monthly electricity bills? Call Solar Bear of Tampa today at (727) 471-7442 to get all the details!