10 best solar companies in Melbourne, Florida
Josephine NesbitContributing Writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Apr. 22, 2024
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Homefront Local uses a unique algorithm to score solar companies based on important factors like user reviews and how popular they are in your area.
High-quality solar panel installation in Melbourne, Florida requires you to hire a solar installer with proper certification, expertise and experience. We've compiled a list of the best solar companies in Melbourne to help you hire the right installer.
Prior to choosing an installer, request referrals from others, vet potential companies and collect multiple quotes to find the ideal company for your needs. You can look for a local solar company in Melbourne or select a well-known national brand.
- Extends 25-year system and labor warranties
- Installs electric vehicle chargers
- Offers strong leasing options
- Extends a 25-year system warranty
- Includes upkeep services for leases
- Provides additional insurance coverage
- Extends 25-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Provides solar panel and battery installation
- Offers comprehensive financing
Even though solar panels need a substantial initial investment, you can reduce your energy expenses in the long run by making the transition. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), switching to solar energy allows Melbourne homeowners to save a yearly average of around $1,200.
Different solar companies offer different products. Take the time to review each company and get quotes from all before booking your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Melbourne
Focus on Melbourne solar companies that have at least 3.5 out of 5 stars based on customer commentary on Google Reviews and similar sites. Make sure the company has a good rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB) when choosing a solar company.
Reviewing previous customer testimonials can give insight into other homeowners' experiences working with the solar company. Frequent poor reviews are worth making a note of as a possible warning sign.
Florida Energy Water & Air
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Affordable Solar Services
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Excel Solar
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Solar Authority
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Crane Creek Solar Systems
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Voltage Pro Solar & Electric, Inc.
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Solar Energy Systems of Brevard
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Alron Construction LLC Roofing & Solar
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Equity Solar
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MidKnight Solar
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What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Melbourne?
Melbourne and the surrounding area receive plenty of sunlight, which allows homeowners to take advantage of solar energy. Here are the top reasons for switching to solar power:
- Reduce environmental impact: Using solar panels reduces your carbon footprint by saving fossil fuels that would otherwise be used to operate your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), power generation is one of the top contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Charge an electric vehicle: You have the ability to power electric vehicles at home using solar panels. This provides the greatest certainty that your electric car is powered by clean, renewable energy.
- Save on energy bills: Transitioning to solar enables you to lower your energy bills. Electricity from solar panels replaces the utility-supplied power you'd normally buy.
Facts about Melbourne
Monthly Energy Spending Per Capita
Clear Sky Days Per Year
Annual Solar Savings Per kW
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Melbourne?
Based on a survey we administered in October 2023, the typical cost of upgrading to solar panels across the country is $11,743.
The price of installing solar panels varies based on several elements, including your location, sunlight access, roof orientation, shading, system dimensions and labor. Be prepared to pay extra if you choose any accessories like animal guards, batteries or solar trackers.
According to statistics from NASA, the EIA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the average expense to install solar panels in Melbourne is $11,321.
How much can you save by going solar in Melbourne?
Solar panel installation is a substantial initial investment, but you can expect to see big savings reflected in your energy bills with time.
Money savings in Melbourne from going solar
In Melbourne, you can plan to save money after transitioning fully to solar. However, it takes time to recover the initial investment, and factors such as rain and tree coverage impact how long it takes to see a return on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The average payback period is the amount of time required for a solar panel system to recover its upfront cost through energy bill savings. Based on our calculations, which utilize data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA, Melbourne's standard solar payback period is 9 years.
- Annual solar savings in Melbourne: Based on numbers that leverage data from the EIA, NASA and the Department of Energy, Melbourne homeowners save around $1,205 per year with solar energy.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: After fully switching to solar power, you can anticipate savings of around $21,205 over 25 years, according to our calculations from NASA and the EIA.
Energy savings in Melbourne from going solar
Beyond cost savings, switching to solar power also decreases your carbon footprint and lowers your environmental impact. Provided below are the projected CO2 emission reductions you can expect from solar energy, as determined by our analysis of data from NASA and the EPA.
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Melbourne?
Melbourne homeowners can take advantage of various solar incentives. Particular programs are provided statewide to all Florida residents, whereas others differ based on city, municipality and utility company.
The following solar incentives are offered to Florida residents, as listed in DSIRE:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Sales Tax Incentive Solar and CHP Sales Tax Exemption | All |
Property Tax Incentive Property Tax Abatement for Renewable Energy Property | Residential: 100% of the added value Non-Residential: 80% of the added value |
PACE Financing Florida PACE programs | Determined locally |
Loan Program Lakeland Electric - Residential Energy Efficiency Loan Program | $5,000 |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels. |
What are common factors to consider before hiring a Melbourne solar installer?
Consider these key points before hiring a solar installation expert.
What size system do you need?
Your household's energy use and the solar system's production ratio determine the appropriate panel system size for you. More expansive houses tend to use more power and will potentially need bigger solar panel systems. An undersized system risks inadequate energy generation to completely power your home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Required permits and local or state regulations could affect your solar project. Be sure to secure necessary permits through your local building department and arrange an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all homes receive the same amount of sunlight. Surrounding trees, rain and severe weather conditions in your area can impact sunlight access. If your home doesn’t get enough sunlight, then you may require extra panels with a higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
A solar battery enables the storage of extra power in solar panel systems. This becomes incredibly helpful when you're trying to prevent power loss under cloudy skies. Incorporating battery storage could raise the overall installation cost.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
Multiple solar panel varieties are available, each varying in life expectancy, efficiency and design. These factors affect pricing, the frequency of replacing panels and the amount of roof space you'll need.
Our methodology for selecting solar companies
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
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