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Why solar energy is a bright idea

Our solar efforts include a lot of activity in the community, too. Here, Tampa Electric's Shelly Whitworth tells students at Lawton Chiles Elementary all about their school's Tampa Electric-installed photovoltaic array.
Our solar efforts include a lot of activity in the community, too. Here, Tampa Electric’s Shelly Whitworth tells students at Lawton Chiles Elementary all about their school’s Tampa Electric-installed photovoltaic array.

For years, renewable energy sources have been underutilized. But thanks to improved technology, lower costs and increased consumer demand, the use of renewables like solar are increasing in record numbers.

Switching to solar at your home can reduce your environmental impact, cut down on your power bills and even add value to your home.

What benefits does solar energy have?

If you have solar panels installed at your home, you should be able to save money in the long run. The initial installation cost of solar panels can be steep (on average more than $20,000). However, the tax incentives that go along with solar power can lessen that blow. In Florida, if you install solar powers at your home, the state will exclude the value of those panels from your property taxes. In addition, the Federal Solar Tax Credit program provides rebates that cover about one third of the initial cost of a solar energy system.

The savings can add up monthly as well – with the typical power bill being reduced by an average of $100 or more each month once solar panels are installed. In addition, if the solar panels generate excess power, that power can be credited back to your account for energy used at night and on cloudy days, providing even more savings.

Solar panel technology has improved a lot during the past few years; not only in terms of efficiency and technologically but also in their appearance. There’s little maintenance involved in the general upkeep and the manufacturers tend to offer long warranties.

Installing solar power is an investment in your home and your family’s future. The financial benefits, coupled with the positive environmental impact and technological advances, make solar power worth considering

Tampa Electric provides a solar calculator so you can find out what your solar savings could be.

There are many factors that should be considered when determining whether solar is a good fit for your home. We recommend researching the technology and getting at least three estimates from licensed solar contractors prior to making the decision to invest. Visit tampaelectric.com/renewable for more information.

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