Category: Uncategorized

What Are Time of Use Rates? How to Strategize Your Solar Usage

Feel like your electric bill just isn’t making sense? You’re not crazy—a radically higher bill could be due to your utility company’s “Time of Use” (TOU) rates. Instead of charging one flat price per kilowatt-hour, TOU rates change depending on when you use electricity. Power up at 2 p.m.? It costs less. Flip on the dryer at 6 p.m.? You might pay double! Can solar really help you avoid these higher TOU rates?

Utility companies implement TOU because demand spikes at certain times, and they want to encourage people to shift usage away from those “peak” hours. Here’s the thing—if you’ve got solar, you can play their game and win.

When your panels produce during the day, you’re pulling less (or no) energy from the grid during expensive hours. But what really matters is how you use that free power.

Time-of-Use Rates in Tampa

Tampa Electric offers TOU rates through its Energy Planner program, where the cost of electricity depends on demand. The concept is simple: use more power during low-demand hours, and you’ll pay less. Use it when everyone else is cranking their AC, and you’ll pay more. Here’s how all this breaks down:

• Low Rate:The cheapest electricity rate, available for a small slice of the day—usually late-night and early morning hours.
• Medium Rate:A midday price that’s still lower than the standard rate.
• High Rate:The most expensive power, charged during peak demand hours.

You also need to be familiar with the area’s Peak & Off-Peak Windows:

• Summer (April–October):Peak hours run from 12 PM to 9 PM.
• Winter (November–March):Peak hours are from 6 AM–10 AM and 6 PM–10 PM.
• Weekends & Holidays:Count as off-peak, which means lower costs.

Tips to Make the Most of Solar with TOU Rates

We said the concept was simple—but turning it into real savings takes strategy. Here’s how to optimize your solar to take advantage:

• Know Your Local Peak Hours: Check your utility’s TOU schedule. Peak windows are often late afternoon to early evening—right when the sun starts dipping.
• Run Big Appliances Earlier: We recommend using larger appliances, like laundry, dishwashers, and ovens, during daylight hours when your panels are cranking out energy.
• Charge Devices and EVs Wisely: Plug in during off-peak or midday solar hours so you’re not pulling pricey evening power.
• Use Timers: Set your pool pump or heater; water heater; and other heavy hitters to run during solar production hours.
• Consider Battery Storage: A solar battery lets you “bank” daytime energy and use it during expensive evening peaks.
• Track and Adjust as Needed: Monitor your usage and solar output monthly. Tiny adjustments, like bumping dinner prep earlier, really do add up over time.

Turn TOU into Your Advantage—Call Us Now

Time of Use rates aren’t something to fear—they’re a puzzle you can solve. Want to see how your Tampa home could beat TOU rates year-round? Solar Bear of Tampa is ready to help you create a customized plan that works for your schedule, your lifestyle, and your budget. Call us today at (727) 353-3886 to get started!

Do Tax Credits Apply To Solar Carports?

If we told you that you could power your vehicle with electricity generated by the sun, would you be excited? As Central Florida homeowners are buying electric vehicles more and more, solar carports are also gaining traction as a way to charge their EVs at home.

The best part? Solar carports may also qualify for federal or state tax credits! Keep reading to learn more from our team at Solar Bear Orlando.

What Is a Solar Carport?

A solar carport is a covered parking structure that has solar panels installed on its roof. Unlike rooftop solar systems, carports don’t require an existing roof, which makes them a great solution for homeowners who are tight on space or don’t want to install solar on their home.

Plus, they offer dual benefits: they generate clean electricity while also protecting vehicles from the sun and rain. In Central Florida, there is also the added benefit of shade. So your EV will stay cooler in our intense summer heat. Nice!

Now, let’s talk tax credits.

Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

Good news! Solar carports generally qualify for the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This credit currently allows homeowners to deduct a percentage of their solar installation costs from their federal taxes.

For residential installations, the credit is set at 30% through 2032 under the Inflation Reduction Act. This credit applies to the entire cost of the solar system, including panels, inverters, mounting hardware, permitting fees, and labor.

As long as your solar carport meets the current IRS requirements—meaning it produces electricity for a home located in the United States and is installed during the eligible period—you can take advantage of the credit.

Florida Solar Incentives

In addition to the federal ITC, Florida offers its own perks for solar installations, which can apply to solar carports:

• Property Tax Exemption: Florida law exempts the added value of installing a renewable energy system from property taxes, meaning installing a solar carport won’t increase your home’s taxable property value.
• Sales Tax Exemption: Solar equipment purchases in Florida are exempt from our state’s sales tax, saving you an immediate 6% at the time of purchase.
• Net Metering: If your solar carport generates more electricity than you use, net metering programs allow you to send excess power back to the grid for credit on your utility bill.

Read More > Can I Charge My Car Battery Directly from My Solar Panels?

Business Tax Benefits for Commercial Solar Carports

If you’re a business owner installing a solar carport, you may qualify for additional incentives such as accelerated depreciation under the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS).

Key Requirements to Qualify

To make sure your solar carport qualifies for tax credits:

• A licensed professional must complete the installation.
• The carport must use new (not used) solar equipment.
• The system must be placed in service during the tax year in which you claim the credit.
• You must own (not lease) the system to claim the ITC.

Make the Switch with Solar Bear Orlando

If you’ve been thinking about going solar, a solar carport could be the perfect solution, especially if you have an electric vehicle too! Ready to get started? Our team at Solar Bear Orlando can walk you through the details, handle permitting, and help you get the maximum incentives available.

Call us today at (727) 353-3886 to schedule a free consultation and find out how much you could save with a solar carport in 2025.

What Are the Lowest Maintenance Solar Panels for Residential Use?

Nobody wants high-maintenance energy—especially not in Florida, where the sun does most of the heavy lifting. If you’re thinking about going solar, you’re probably wondering: Which panels can I count on to work hard without constant babysitting?

Here’s the quick answer: monocrystalline solar panels. These sleek, strong panels make life easier. Let’s unpack why they’re the top low-maintenance solar choice for Tampa homeowners.

Solar Panels Made to Last

Monocrystalline panels are the workhorses of residential solar. Why? Because their structure is made from a single, pure crystal of silicon. That gives them:

• A lifespan of 25 years or more.
• Top-tier efficiency, often above 20%.
• The resilience to handle Tampa heat, storms, and salty air.

In other words, you’ll be enjoying consistent solar power for decades—with minimal upkeep and fewer worries.

Fewer Panels, Less Fuss

Because monocrystalline panels are so efficient, you’ll likely need fewer of them to hit your energy goals. That means:

• Less rooftop space taken up by panels.
• Fewer connection points.
• And yes—less maintenance over time.

It’s a win-win. You get more power with fewer headaches.

Maintenance Is So Easy

Luckily, with monocrystalline panels, there are no moving parts or fluids to worry about. You get solid, sun-powered energy, year after year. Here’s what it takes to keep monocrystalline panels in top shape:

• Occasional Cleaning:Helps keep down pollen, dust, or rogue leaf piles after a storm.
• A Quick Inspection Now and Then:Just do this every few months to make sure everything’s connected and clear.
• Professional Monitoring (Optional):Some homeowners use apps or services to track performance, but many just let the panels run.

Why Not Thin-Film or Polycrystalline?

You’ve got options. But here’s what to keep in mind:

• Polycrystalline panels are more affordable, but they’re also less efficient and tend to degrade faster.
• Thin-film panels are flexible and great for RVs or specialty setups—but they’re not ideal for long-term residential use. They fade faster and don’t handle heat as well.

For most homes in the Tampa area, monocrystalline is the sweet spot for performance and peace of mind.

Going Solar Is Easier Than Ever—Call Us Now

Need help finding the right solar setup for your needs? Solar Bear of Tampa is always here to answer your questions, from panel types to performance. Let’s get you set up with panels that work hard, rain or shine—without bugging you about it. Call us today at (727) 353-3886 to get started. We’ll help you go solar the smart way!

Can Skipping Maintenance Appointments Really Affect My Solar System?

You may have heard that in rainy places like Florida, you can get away with not maintaining your solar system. But we’re here to tell you what you heard is wrong! Sorry…

Skipping maintenance can certainly have an impact on the efficiency of your solar system, and our team at Solar Bear Orlando is here to explain why.

Why Maintenance Matters

Your solar system works hard to generate electricity from the power of the sun, but just like any other home appliance, it does require regular maintenance and check-ups. Over time, dirt, debris, and general wear and tear can impact the entire system’s performance if not well-cleaned at least a couple of times a year.

Bottom line? Neglecting maintenance can lead to a decrease in system efficiency, which can translate to higher energy bills and even a shorter lifespan for your system.

Your solar system works hard to provide you with clean energy, but just like any other appliance, it requires regular check-ups. Over time, dirt, debris, and wear and tear can impact its performance. Neglecting maintenance can lead to decreased efficiency, meaning higher energy bills and potentially a shorter lifespan for your system.

Read More > Do I Need to Clean My Solar Panels if It Rains Often?

Signs You Need a Check-Up

Ok. So now you know that you can’t neglect your solar system, even in rainy Central Florida. But how do you know when it’s time to call for maintenance?

Here are a few indicators:

• Reduced Energy Production: If you notice a decrease in the power that your system is generating, it is time for a check-up.
• Damage: If you see any cracks or discoloration on your panels, you should call in our pros, as these issues should not be ignored.
• Loose Wiring: Over time, especially in Florida’s humid climate, electrical connections can loosen or corrode, which could impact performance and create a safety hazard.
• Inverter Issues: If the system’s inverter is displaying warning signs or error messages, it is important to get it checked out.
• Dirtiness: This one’s easy. If your solar panels are dirty with streaks of dirt, hard water spots, bird droppings, or leaf debris, it is time for maintenance.

Benefits of Regular Maintenance

While it’s true that solar panels generally have lower maintenance requirements, regular inspections and cleaning are important to ensure optimal performance, maximize energy production, and extend the length of the system’s lifespan.

We recommend scheduling a professional maintenance visit at least once or twice a year to protect your solar investment. Yes, even if it’s raining a lot and the panels look “clean!” Even if the panels look clean, accumulated debris can cause micro-abrasions to the panels that can greatly impact performance over time.

Don’t Skip Maintenance Appointments

While it can be tempting to just let the rain wash away dust and debris, don’t put your solar system at risk by skimping on maintenance appointments. Regular inspections can save you money and extend the lifespan of your system.

So, if you’re in Central Florida and need some help maintaining your system and keeping it running its best, reach out to our friendly team at Solar Bear Orlando at (727) 353-3886.

We’re here to help ensure your solar system runs efficiently for years to come!