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Here in the Sunshine State, the future of solar energy is bright, but recent changes in the political realm may cast shadows on its future growth.

Today, our team at Solar Bear Orlando discusses how the Trump administration’s policies might impact our industry and what that might mean for Orlando homeowners who are hoping to install a solar array.

Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

Soon after stepping back into office, President Trump signed an executive order that proposes to temporarily suspend further funding to the Inflation Reduction Act, which encompasses the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit. It currently provides a 30% tax credit for qualifying solar installations.

The specifics of the executive order are unclear, and any changes to the ITC will require a new law being passed by Congress. For the past few administrations, there has been bipartisan support for solar energy, and in his last term, President Trump signed legislation to extend solar tax credits, so that is a good sign.

Plus, the ITC is vital to many industries and companies. Eliminating the ITC would halt current large-scale solar projects that contribute to green energy and job creation here in the United States. Over 200,000 jobs depend on solar energy.

*Note: We would like to emphasize that we are solar experts, not legislators or tax experts, so we recommend that you see your accountant if you have any questions concerning any policies or tax incentives.

Read More > Will Solar Prices Increase This Year?

Tariffs

As you are likely aware, the Trump administration has also put in place tariffs on many of our trade partners, including China. This could have a major impact on the solar industry. These tariffs could lead to an increase in prices for imported solar components, making the initial investment into solar even more of a challenge for many people.

That said, there is also an opportunity for manufacturers here in the United States to step up and boost the economy while creating jobs in the solar sector by building these components here.

We know that the impact of tariffs can be stressful, but we also recommend that Florida homeowners consider the long-term benefits of solar energy, which can outweigh the initial costs of installation that might be impacted by tariffs. The return on investment from reduced electricity bills and available tax incentives can still be significant despite higher upfront costs due in part to tariffs. 

Though these tariffs will certainly pose many challenges, they should also be viewed as a catalyst for growth and innovation here locally.

And remember, these situations with the ITC and tariffs are still developing, and the long-term impact of any policies or changes is yet to be fully understood. If you are planning to install solar, we recommend doing it now before any changes or tariffs are implemented.

Lean on Solar Bear Orlando

While recent political policies, potential tariffs, and changes to the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit are hanging in the balance and may present challenges for the solar industry as a whole, we are optimistic about the future of solar in our amazing state.

The benefits of going solar remain despite any political issues, and the advantages of reduced electricity costs and available local tax incentives still offer Central Florida residents significant returns on investment.

Ready to go solar or want to learn more about the available tax credits? Call our friendly team at Solar Bear Orlando at (727) 471-7442. We’re always here to help!

Net metering is one of the many perks of going solar in Florida. But when your solar panel system is tied to the grid, there are some risks that you should be prepared for if you want to protect your investment and your home. Solar Bear Tampa is here to show you some of the best ways to protect your grid-tied solar panels so you can enjoy peak energy efficiency without the stress!

Get a Solar Inverter For Anti-Islanding Protection

One of the easiest ways to protect your grid-tied solar panel system is by installing a solar inverter. Just like how you would plug your electronics into a surge-protected power strip instead of directly into the wall, a solar inverter channels your solar power to prevent overloading the system.

Solar inverters in Tampa are typically made with built-in anti-islanding protection. This means that solar power is stopped from going back to the grid during outages. Such a disruption can cause many potential hazards that come with abnormal electrical activity, but a solar inverter will shut down to stop the flow of energy before that can happen.

Learn more > How Do I Know What Size Solar Inverter I Need For My House?

Keep a Solar Backup Battery Handy

Pairing a solar inverter with a backup battery is the ultimate combo for protecting your grid-tied solar panel system while still routing power to your home during an outage in Tampa. A solar backup battery stores excess solar power that your panels collect and saves it for later use. This is why they’re also referred to as “banks”.

Here’s how it works:

1. The power goes out in your neighborhood
2. Your solar inverter kicks in to disrupt the flow to the public grid
3. The solar energy from your backup battery keeps your home powered

When you leave the setup to your local solar professionals, protecting your grid-tied solar panels while powering your home during an outage is really as simple as that!

What is a Hybrid Solar Panel System?

It’s what we just described above! Hybrid solar panel systems use the advantages of both grid-tied and off-grid systems which often translates to using the grid when you need it and cutting yourself off from it when you don’t.

Stay On Top of Regular Solar Panel Maintenance

An often overlooked aspect of solar panel protection is good ol’ maintenance. Routine maintenance from qualified professionals in Tampa is key to ensuring that your grief-tied solar panel system is in working order and free of potential mishaps.

Routine maintenance for grid-tied solar panels includes:

• Thorough inspections of the panels, inverters, and backup batteries
• Deep cleaning to remove harmful debris
• Addressing signs of damage and overheating
• Performance monitoring for peak operating efficiency

Solar Bear Tampa Delivers Safe Solar Panel Installation to Your Neighborhood. Call Today For a Free Quote!

From grid-tied solar panel installation to routine maintenance, Solar Bear Tampa is your go-to company for all things solar! Call us today at (727) 471-7442 to get started on a free quote and to ask about our available financing options.

Ever open your gas bill and wonder if you’re accidentally paying for the whole neighborhood? You’re not alone. In 2025, homeowners across Tampa and beyond are still feeling the sting of inflated energy prices. And while the weather here doesn’t exactly scream “blast the heat,” many Floridians are still surprised when their natural gas bill spikes without warning. Here are the top four culprits and four solutions—and yes: solar can help fix all of it.

1. Gas Rates Are Still Climbing

Even though wholesale gas prices have settled compared to the 2022 chaos, utilities have adjusted—but not down. Many Tampa-area providers raised their base rates and added new “adjustment” fees to offset infrastructure and transmission costs. Want us to translate that? You’re paying more—even if you’re using the same amount.

How to save: Stop playing a game you can’t win. Offset those monthly costs with solar energy. While solar panels won’t eliminate your gas bill (unless you’ve fully electrified your home), they’ll slash your electric usage and often open the door to cutting the cord on gas appliances altogether.

2. You’re Still Using Gas for More Than You Realize

If it burns? It costs. That includes the hot water heater, dryer, stove, pool heater, outdoor grill, and so on. Even if you barely touch your thermostat, multiple everyday habits quietly drain your gas line—and your bank account.

How to save: Audit your gas usage. Swap your gas water heater for a high-efficiency electric hybrid model. Consider an electric dryer next time yours breaks. Or, if you’re ready for a big leap, go full-electric and power your home with rooftop solar. No flame. No fumes. No monthly mystery charges.

3. Insulation and Efficiency Still Matter—Even in Florida

Sure, we don’t have blizzards in Tampa. But poor insulation, drafty windows, or an older water heater can still push your gas bill higher—especially in winter when temps drop just enough to crank on the heat or keep the water hot longer.

How to save: Start with small fixes. Check for leaks around doors and windows. Wrap your water heater. Upgrade to smart thermostats. These are smart Florida moves, especially when combined with solar for total energy control.

4. You’re Relying Too Much on the Grid

Every time the utility hikes rates or adds new surcharges, you’re at their mercy. Solar flips the script.

With a solar panel system—and especially with a solar battery backup—you generate your own power. You control what you use, when you use it, and how much you spend. It’s not just eco-friendly—it’s economically empowering.

How to save: Install solar now while 2025 federal tax credits and Florida-specific incentives are still on the table. Many of our customers in Tampa offset most of their electric costs immediately and make plans to reduce gas dependence shortly after.

Ditch the High Bills—Go Solar Today

You’re not just looking for lower numbers on a statement. You want control, stability, and freedom from guessing games and rate hikes.

At Solar Bear of Tampa, we help homeowners make smart, affordable energy decisions. Whether you’re ready to explore full-home solar, a battery backup, or simply want to understand what’s possible—we’re here. Call us at (727) 353-3886 to get started! The future doesn’t run on gas—it runs on sunshine.

You don’t just walk into a store and say, “I want two solar panels, please!” and expect everything to work itself out. It takes accurate calculations and strategic planning to install a solar panel system that brings solar power efficiency to your home. One of the ways we do this is by following the 120% rule for solar installation, and this guide serves to teach you the basics!

Find out what the 120% rule is all about before reaching out to Solar Bear Orlando for a free estimate on your new solar panel installation.

Introducing the NEC 120% Rule For Solar Installation

The 120% rule for solar installation is a part of the National Electrical Code (NEC) that ensures a solar panel system does not exceed 120% of the main service panel’s capacity. Essentially, there’s a limit to how many solar panels you can have installed on your home. This isn’t simply to restrict your usage, but to help prevent the chances of potential safety hazards in Orlando.

A Closer Look at Solar Panel Safety For Florida Homeowners

By following the 120% rule, you can ensure that your Orlando home is safe from the dangers of an overloaded panel and short-circuiting. How likely is this to happen? The question should be, why risk it? But just so you have a better understanding of the significance of proper solar panel installation, let’s review what happens when you exceed this rule:

When you overload the house with an excessive number of solar panels that exceed the 120% rule, the panel’s busbar can become overloaded and cause an electrical hazard. Sparks can fly and start a fire, or the electricity can create a high-voltage environment. Either way, this is something that every homeowner in Orlando can avoid by implementing the 120% rule with solar panels.

Not sure how much solar power you need for your home? Take a look at our guide going over Florida’s average kWh per day for a rough idea of what you might need.

Tips For Following the 120% Rule:

Complying with the 120% rule is crucial for a safe setup and it’s not that hard to do. Here are some of the steps you need to take for necessary precautions in Orlando:

1. Find out the maximum busbar your solar panels can handle.
2. Multiple that rating by 1.2 to find 120% of your limit.
3. Find the rating on your main breaker.
4. Subtract the main breaker rating from your 120% busbar total for your maximum solar backfeed current.
5. Hire a solar panel installer who can supply you with the necessary amount of solar panels that match your data.

Abiding by all of the necessary compliances is one of the main reasons to support your local solar company. Small businesses in Orlando know all about state laws as well as the local community and climate to offer you tailored services that fit your solar power needs.

Achieve Solar Panel Compliance Guaranteed When You Hire Solar Bear Orlando!

Trust the experts at Solar Bear Orlando for professional solar panel installation you can rely on for optimal safety and solar power efficiency. Call us today at (727) 471-7442 to ask for a free quote and to see how we can help your home achieve the 120% rule for solar installation!