There needs to be clarity about the legality of solar panels being used in Florida. Solar panel use is legal in Florida—however, rules governing where and how they can be obtained.
Let us take a look at Florida’s regulations regarding solar panels.
FLORIDA SOLARENERGY LAWS & REGULATIONS
Florida has a law known as the Florida Homeowners Solar Rights Act. Every resident has the right to purchase and use solar panels. This is a simple idea: Why would your state want to encourage you to use renewable energy sources?
If you own a multi-unit property, your building manager must approve solar panels. Florida’s Homeowners Association will inspect your home before and after you install solar panels.
HOAs cannot legally prevent anyone from purchasing solar panels or any other renewable energy system. However, they can impose restrictions such as height limits if the building is near an airport or pitch rules requiring your panels to face at least 45 degrees south.
You have the right to question the state if they refuse to install your request for panels. Without reason, they can’t deny your request.
YOUR SOLAR PANELS & THE STATE’S GIR
Florida’s relaxed attitude towards solar panel purchases is a great thing. It allows residents to save money on energy bills and reduce carbon emissions.
Here is the catch. All Florida residents with solar panels must connect to the grid if they are not self-sufficient.
You can connect your solar panel system to any state grid if you reside in another state. Some people do not choose to do so because they do not need much power. They may also prefer to store excess energy in batteries or generators.
People in other states may be willing to connect their systems with grids because they produce more energy than they use. Plus, they enjoy the benefits net Metering offers (not to be confused with the Federal Solar Tax Credit).
You must report to the grid any excess energy that exceeds 115% of your household’s monthly energy consumption in Florida regardless of whether or not you have backup storage. You will be able to get credits thanks to Florida’s net Metering Program.
Florida is committed to providing power for homes affected by outages. It is not uncommon for lights to go out in Florida due to the state’s vulnerability to severe storms or natural disasters. A large amount of energy is needed to provide a backup for everyone.
SOLAR ENERGY IN SCHOOLS & OTHER CONSTRUCTION
Florida also holds that schools must include solar panels to increase renewable energy use. Florida also requires that schools constructed in the future must use low-energy appliances. The school must have eco-conscious architectural elements like skylights or natural ventilation to reduce energy consumption.
Florida’s green-focused construction plans are not limited to schools. Florida passed this legislation to encourage commercial and educational buildings to use the sun’s energy and harness it.
Because of the federal rebates and incentives, solar power is growing in popularity. Now is the best time to invest in solar power and help the planet.