Is it worth to install solar panels in Florida?
Emma Jordan
Published Mar 26, 2026
Installing a properly sized renewable energy system in Florida can save you up to $80,000 in avoided energy costs. This is about average for the United States. Solar system costs and savings for an average home in Hardee County, with a monthly utility bill of $169.
How much does it cost to install solar in Florida?
Given a solar panel system size of 5 kilowatts (kW), an average solar installation in Florida ranges in cost from $11,135 to $15,065, with the average gross price for solar in Florida coming in at $13,100.
How many solar panels are needed to power a house in Florida?
For a household that uses an annual average of 10,400 kWh of electricity along with the common-sized 250-watt solar panels, then an estimated 28-34 panels would fully cover its electrical needs.
Can I install solar panels myself in Florida?
There are many DIY projects that homeowners can complete entirely on their own, but solar panel installation is not one of them. Furthermore, a number of states, including Florida, require homeowners to hire licensed technicians to install solar panels.
Why is solar not popular in Florida?
Solar power in Florida has been increasing, as the cost of solar power systems using photovoltaics (PV) has decreased in recent years. Florida has low electricity costs compared with other states, which makes individual solar investment less attractive.
Is it illegal to be off grid in Florida?
No, it’s not illegal to go off the Florida grid entirely. Florida statute says that if people are entirely self-sufficient, they can go off the grid altogether and split from the utility provider.
Do you need a permit to install solar panels in Florida?
The answer is yes — in most jurisdictions in Florida, permits are required for all solar panel types. And when there is a permit, there is naturally an inspection.
Is Florida a good state to live off grid?
Florida is not an ideal place to live off the grid, mostly due to the high population density. Although there are a couple of areas where living off the grid in this state is relatively easy, and you will see that some counties can be excellent for off grid living.
Do you need permission to install solar panels?
If you’re considering installing solar panels in your San Diego home, or anywhere in California, one of the biggest questions is whether you need a permit to install. The short answer is yes.
How do I get a building permit in Hillsborough County?
Here you can research, apply for, and track the status of permits for residential and commercial development in Hillsborough County. Development Services applications can be submitted online. Visit or for instructions.
Is it against the law to live off grid in Florida?
All Florida counties regulate land use through a code called a zoning ordinance. The good news is there are currently no state-wide regulations making it illegal to live off the grid in Florida, as long as it takes place on your own private property or land zoned for a specific public access use, such as RV usage.
As a general rule, solar is worth it in Florida. Generous electricity buy-back rates, the Florida state sales tax exemption, the property tax exemption and the Federal Solar Tax Rebate all combine to give an attractive solar payback period of 11 years on average, making solar well-worth it in Florida.
Can you go off grid in Florida?
The answer is yes — in most jurisdictions in Florida, permits are required for all solar panel types. Your solar contractor should secure all necessary permits and schedules required inspections. You will not have to deal with the building department, and the whole process is painless.
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Florida?
How much do solar panels cost in Florida? Florida’s average cost of a solar panel installation ranges from $11,220 to $15,180. On a cost per watt ($/W) basis, a solar panel installation in Florida ranges in price from $2.24 to $3.04. Another calculation that potential solar buyers have to consider is the solar payback period.
Where is the best place to install solar panels?
They are much simpler to install, but when roof surface area is an issue, high-efficiency crystalline panels may be a better choice. With crystalline panels, you have three options for location: Mounting the panels on your roof, on the ground, or on a pivoting stand.
How long do solar panels last in Florida?
For Florida, the average solar payback period is 10.57 years. Additionally, it is important to consider how the consumer will pay for a solar panel system. Fortunately, there are many financial options available to ensure the customer can afford installations.
Can a property owner customize a solar panel?
For property owners, you now can customize your solar panels, inverters, racking systems, and batteries, as well as the general aesthetic of the installation. This customizability has made it important for solar consumers to understand these various factors.