Category: Uncategorized

Making the switch to solar may come with some upfront costs, but the long-term benefits more than outweigh them. Going solar leads to much lower utility bills, reduced dependence on the energy grid, and a smaller carbon footprint. Aside from the financial benefits, you’re also being a better steward of the planet.

If you’re a Florida resident considering making the switch to solar, there are some generous Florida solar incentives you should be aware of. The government wants to make solar more affordable for the average homeowner, and you should take full advantage of any assistance provided. Here’s a guide to understanding how these tax credits and incentives work, so you can save money and enjoy all the benefits of going solar.

Federal Solar Tax Credit

This tax credit applies to all residents of the U.S., and it’s earned as a percentage of the total cost of installing a solar photovoltaic system. You can use this tax credit to reduce your federal income taxes, and the savings can be significant.

If you install a solar photovoltaic system by the end of 2023, you’ll receive a 22% tax credit for doing so. Homeowners must act fast since the tax credit expires in 2024 unless Congress extends it.

There’s no limit to how much of a credit you can earn, but you must meet the following requirements:

• Install a solar PV system at your U.S. residence.
• The PV system must be installed and producing electricity before December 31, 2023.
• You must own the system by purchasing it outright or financing with a loan.
• The system must be an original installation, new or used for the first time at your residence.

To receive the federal solar tax credit if you’re eligible, complete IRS Form 5695 and attach it to your Form 1040NR when filing your annual tax return.

Solar Property Tax Exemption

While Florida doesn’t offer a state tax credit for solar, there is a property tax exemption to consider. Under Florida law, renewable energy system installations that enhance a home’s property value—including a solar PV system and batteries—are excluded from the property’s overall taxable value.

Home Solar System Sales Tax Exemption

In Florida, all solar energy systems and components are exempt from sales tax. In short, you save 6% of what you’d otherwise pay.

Net Metering

Aside from tax credits and exemptions, Florida allows for net metering by various utility companies. This means that homeowners with solar energy systems may sell power to the electric grid at a retail rate. Your credits are reflected in your energy bill and deducted from your consumption.

Save More and Switch to Solar

Want to learn more about all the benefits and incentives you’ll enjoy when you switch to solar? Reach out to the solar experts at Solar Bear Tampa. We’ll help you take advantage of all programs and savings available to you, so you can start saving money on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint right away. Call us today at (727) 471-7442 to learn more!

Is your solar system not working as well as it should? If you’ve noticed an increase in your utility bills, there are some common reasons why a solar system isn’t working its best. Here are six tips to help you diagnose and treat a broken solar panel. 

1. Check the Breaker Switches

Every solar panel system has breaker switches—the tiny fuse boxes that manage the flow of electricity from your panels to your home. A glitch, overload, or surge can trip these switches and keep solar electricity from being sent to your appliances or the grid. If the breaker switches are off, switching them back to the proper state often fixes the issue.

2. Look for Obstructions

Solar panels rely on direct sunlight to produce energy, so they need to stay free from any obstructions like:

• Trees with full foliage that may be blocking out light
• Accumulated debris, dust, or pollen that builds up over time

It’s wise to check for obstructions below the panels, too. It’s not uncommon to find nesting birds, mice, or other vermin that can damage essential system components, causing low energy production. Check for debris and droppings regularly and consider installing a pest guard to keep critters away from your energy source.

3. Check the Inverter

Almost every PV installation includes an inverter—the component that converts the direct current from the solar panels to the alternating current your appliances use for energy. Check your inverter, and if the light is green, it should be working properly. If the light is yellow or red, there could be a problem with the inverter, and you should call your solar provider directly for more information.

4. Check the Solar Meter

Every solar system includes a solar meter that monitors the system’s energy production in real-time, comparing it to historic production data to spot potential problems. Although some homeowners may not realize it, a solar meter prevents lost energy savings. If your solar meter stops collecting data, it could cause problems with your system, and you should reach out to your solar provider right away.

5. Check the Glass

Solar panels are made of tempered glass—a specially engineered product that’s four times stronger than regular glass. While the tempered glass in solar panels is very resilient, it’s not completely damage-proof. Falling tree branches, golf balls, lightning, vandalism, and other impacts can damage the glass. Reach out to your solar provider for a replacement panel—they’re often covered by insurance.

6. Consider Solar Cell Damage

Your solar panels might be producing less energy even if they aren’t visibly damaged. In this case, the problem likely lies in the solar cells themselves. Your solar provider can individually repair solar cells, extending the life of your panels.

Enjoy Reliable, Renewable Energy With the Help of Solar Bear Tampa

Ready to make the switch to clean energy? Solar Bear of Tampa is standing by to help! We offer high-quality solar system components and installation, helping you make the most of your investment. Call us today at (727) 471-7442 to get started!

As the cost of solar power continues to drop, many homeowners in Central Florida are considering converting to solar energy. Before making the switch, it’s essential to consider how a solar installation may affect your homeowner’s insurance coverage.

Will your homeowner’s insurance go up if you get solar? We’ll discuss the factors that may lead to higher premiums and explore ways you can save on your insurance while still enjoying the benefits of solar power.

Homeowners Insurance and Solar Panels

Your home insurance policy will likely cover your solar panel installation. If your solar panel system is connected to your home, they are covered under the dwelling portion of your policy. The caveat? You will only receive coverage if a peril like a storm damages your panels.

Covered perils include:

• Hail
• Fire damage
• Storm damage

Unfortunately, your solar panels will not be covered for wear and tear, earthquakes, or flooding.

Most insurance companies consider adding solar panels to your home a favorable factor when calculating premiums. This is because solar energy systems typically reduce the risk of damage to the home due to weather events or other occurrences. In turn, this reduces the chances that an insurance company will have to pay out a claim related to a damaged roof or other parts of the home due to solar equipment failure.

In addition, most insurance carriers offer discounts for those who install solar panel systems on their homes – often up to 12%. However, it is important to understand that these savings may vary based on each individual policy and provider.

Do Solar Panels Affect Insurance Premiums?

The answer ultimately depends on the individual insurance company and policy you have. However, adding a solar panel system to your home should not automatically mean an increase in your premium or deductible. Your insurer may ask for information about the system and require certain safety measures be taken before allowing you to install it. However, most insurers recognize the value that solar energy can provide in terms of energy efficiency and cost savings over time.

There are situations where the installation of solar panels could increase the price of your homeowners’ insurance policy. This increase is due in part to the enhanced value that solar panels give to your home.

Insurance companies typically rate their premiums according to a home’s value to adequately cover the home in the event of a covered accident. This is why you may have to increase your coverage limits on your policy to match the increase in your home’s value.

Note: if you decide to install solar panels at any point during your current policy period, be sure to contact your insurer right away and let them know about the change.

What About Separate Policies?

You may need to add coverage or purchase a separate policy to cover your solar panels in some situations. For example, you will need a separate policy if your solar panels do not attach to your home’s roof. This includes ground-mounted panels or carport-mounted panels.

Solar panels that directly attach to your home will have insurance coverage under your homeowners’ policy. Every insurer handles policies differently, so make sure you contact your insurance agent to determine the best coverage for your needs.

Should You Increase Your Coverage After a Solar Installation?

The answer to this question will depend largely on your insurer and homeowners’ policy rules. It is best to increase your coverage to ensure that it adequately protects your solar panels in the event of an accident.

Solar Solutions: Igniting a Bright Future

Going solar in Central Florida is a great way to save money, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to a sustainable future. With plenty of sunshine and incentives from the government, it’s a perfect place to install panels and start making an impact.

Homeowners don’t have to worry about unknowns or risks since companies like Solar Bear can provide trustworthy guidance every step of the way. So, why wait? Take advantage of all that Central Florida has to offer and join the solar revolution today!

Call Solar Bear Orlando for a solar installation quote in Central Florida today; (727) 471-7442!

If you are planning to install solar panels in Central Florida with a Tier 2 system, you must have proof of Tier 2 insurance. This insurance policy, known as a Personal Liability Policy or PLP, must have coverage of at least $1 million.

This may come as a surprise to many Florida residents who are in the beginning stages of their solar installation, but it is an important requirement to be aware of.

Our pros at Solar Bear Orlando explain what you need to know!

What is the Tier System?

Utilities separate solar systems into tiers, categorized by Kilowatt (kW) system size. Although the exact terms will vary by company, the tiers that are generally recognized throughout Florida include:

• Tier 1: Systems less than or equal to 10 kW
• Tier 2: Larger than 10 kW up to 100 kW
• Tier 3: Larger 100kW

Tier 2 Utility Connections

Tier 2 solar systems start at 11,765 watts and require a $400 one-time interconnection fee and $1 million of personal liability insurance whether on your homeowner’s insurance policy or as an umbrella policy.

Each utility company requires a specific type of disconnect switch that they have access to, and it generally must be near the utility meter. The interconnection of a Tier 2 system is the same, but some additional documentation is required.

The idea behind these Tier 2 requirements goes back to when solar equipment was new and could potentially back-feed power to the grid, endangering utility workers. These requirements are outdated and unnecessary, but they are part of the Net Metering law’s tier system and part of your utility company’s approved interconnection agreement.

Another factor to consider is how much power the utility company can accept from your system. They need to ensure that their transformers and transmission equipment can handle the amount of solar power produced by your system and other net metering customers in the area. Tier 2 interconnections require a bit more on the utility company’s part, justifying the extra costs to ensure the stability of the grid for all users.

Tier 2 Insurance Requirements

Many new solar customers are not aware of the exact terms of their utility company’s Interconnection Agreement. This agreement states that you must have sufficient liability insurance for your system.

Your insurance company might be unfamiliar with this requirement, and confusion can arise if you ask your insurance agent to “insure my solar panels for $1 million.” When discussing insurance for your Tier 2 system, communicate clearly that you need a Personal Liability Policy of $1 million and you should have no problems.

What Kind of Insurance Do I Need?

If you want to install a Tier 2-sized system, your utility company will require proof of a Personal Liability Policy that provides at least $1 million in coverage.

You will also need to provide a financial statement and documentation that proves the value and size of your solar system and insurance.

Why Do I Need Tier 2 Solar Insurance?

Your utility company wants to protect itself from liability if a customer’s solar system causes injury or death.

These insurance demands are quite controversial, and there have been several disputes throughout Florida about the need for these Tiered solar insurance demands, but unfortunately, Florida homeowners must comply.

Is PLP Insurance Expensive?

Thankfully, most PLPs are affordable at just around $14 a month which allows homeowners to enjoy considerable savings on their electric bills, even with the insurance needed for their Tier 2 system.

Central Florida Solar

Solar Bear has been a trusted guide for homeowners wishing to install solar for years and is an invaluable resource if you are looking to install a Tier 2 solar system.

Our personal approach to each customer’s unique situation, combined with an extensive understanding of the industry, make Solar Bear an ideal partner for anyone considering solar energy.

With competitive pricing and superior service, Solar Bear is the go-to provider for solar systems in Central Florida! Contact us today for a quote at (727) 471-7442!