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Sunshine Solutions
We provide customized solar solutions.
From the founders of Mirasol Solar, our team brings more than 40 years of experience and deep knowledge of solar energy in Florida. We offer top-quality equipment, professional installation, and dedicated customer service to ensure that your solar project exceeds expectations.
When sunlight illuminates, electricity flows from solar panels through wires to an apparatus known as an “inverter.” This device transforms the direct current (DC) electricity generated by the panels into the specific type of power utilized by your household, called alternating current (AC). Once the inverter accomplishes this conversion, the electricity continues its journey via a dedicated wire to your home’s electrical panel. At this juncture, any surplus electricity generated by your solar panels is channeled back through the power lines and fed into the utility company’s power grid.
When your property adopts solar power, it enters into a “Net Energy Meter” agreement with the utility company. Net metering is a program that enables customers who generate their own electricity, such as through solar panels, to receive credits for any surplus power they produce and feed back into the grid. These credits can offset your future electricity bills.
Typically offered by utilities or state governments, net metering promotes the use of renewable energy sources and reduces strain on the electrical grid by allowing customers to contribute excess power during times of high demand.
Overall, net metering is a valuable option for those investing in renewable energy and aiming to reduce reliance on traditional power sources. However, program specifics may vary based on location and utility provider. It is crucial to research and understand the regulations and requirements in your area. Consult with your Manatee Solar Consultant to determine if you qualify for Net Energy Metering (NEM).
There are 3 main factors that determine whether your home is a good candidate for solar energy:
- Does it get a good amount of direct sunlight (not overly obstructed by shade)?
- What is the orientation of the roof (technically “Azimuth” but means North, South, East, West)?
- Roof condition, shape, and size.
Direct Sunlight
In order for solar panels to function optimally, they require direct sunlight. If your house’s roof receives ample direct sunlight throughout the day, you are an ideal candidate for solar energy. However, even if your roof is shaded or obstructed, it doesn’t necessarily mean that solar is out of reach. There are solutions to overcome the challenges posed by shade.
- Enhancing Performance with power optimizers or micro inverters can greatly enhance the performance of a solar system. This technology allows each panel to operate independently, maximizing electricity production when exposed to sunlight. When one panel is shaded, its output may decrease, but the other panels in the system remain unaffected. This approach proves particularly effective in mitigating the impact of tall trees in a neighboring yard.
- Sometimes, a simple tree trimming can make all the difference. At Manatee Solar, we have established partnerships with licensed tree services, and we regularly assist homeowners and business owners in coordinating the necessary tree work to enable them to adopt solar energy. The cost of the tree work is also taken into consideration as part of our service.
Orientation Of Your Roof
In order to maximize the efficiency of solar energy systems, it is ideal for solar panels to be oriented towards the south. South-facing roofs receive the most direct sunlight, resulting in optimal energy generation. However, even if your roof faces east or west, you can still generate a significant amount of electricity. These orientations typically receive enough sunlight to meet your home’s energy needs. The savings you can enjoy from utilizing solar energy would still be substantial, making it a worthwhile investment.
Roof Condition, Shape, and Size
Once a solar system is installed, it can operate efficiently for over 30 years. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that your roof is in good condition before proceeding with solar installation. If your roof is deteriorating or nearing the end of its lifespan, it may be necessary to replace it prior to adding solar panels. However, there’s good news if you find yourself in this situation! By including the roof replacement as part of your solar project, the savings generated can help offset the overall cost. It’s like getting a new roof along with your solar system!
Roof shapes can vary significantly across different house styles. In most places, the ideal roof shape for solar installation is a straightforward rectangle-shaped “gable” roof. This type of roof provides ample space to accommodate as many panels as required without any space constraints. However, solar can still work effectively with other roof shapes, including those with dormers or valleys. It may just require a bit more configuration and careful placement of the panels to meet the energy demands of your home.
At Manatee Solar, we take pride in maximizing every opportunity for our customers. If another solar company has informed you that your house is not suitable for solar, we encourage you to let us take a look. We have a track record of finding solutions in many situations where other companies couldn’t.
A study conducted by Zillow revealed that homes equipped with solar panels tend to sell for 4.1% more compared to similar homes without solar installations. Although there is limited research on the correlation between solar panels and commercial property valuations, it is generally understood that adding solar power has the potential to increase a property’s selling price. However, the actual impact on property value can vary depending on factors such as location, system size, and property type.
While the initial cost of installing solar panels may raise concerns for some, it is important to consider the long-term financial benefits. These benefits include energy savings and the potential for increased property value, which can offset the upfront costs. Discover how incorporating solar power can enhance your financial bottom line today!
The incentives for adding solar to your residence are at an all-time high. The Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) offers 30 percent of the cost of your system as a credit on your federal income tax. Florida homeowners who install solar benefits from both property tax and sales tax exemptions. Florida also offers Net Metering, which means that when your solar system produces more power than you need, the excess is captured by the grid, and provides a credit on your electric bill. Plus, did you know that homes with solar sell for more than those without?
Residential Solar
The solar investment tax credit (ITC) provides individuals or companies with a direct reduction in their income taxes owed to the federal government. It is equivalent to the full amount of money spent on installing solar systems. For homeowners, the federal ITC is calculated at 30% of the installation cost. In the case of leased systems, Manatee Solar gathers this incentive and transfers the savings directly to the homeowner. Take action now, as the earlier you adopt solar energy, the greater your potential savings!
Commercial Solar
Embracing the benefits of solar power brings various advantages, with the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and 5-Year Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS) standing out prominently. These incentives have played a crucial role in cost reduction for companies making the switch to solar energy. Moreover, businesses can take advantage of a range of rebates and incentives offered at the state, municipal, and utility levels, further facilitating the adoption of renewable energy. To explore the specific incentives available in their area, businesses can refer to the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Energy, which serves as a valuable resource.
When you install solar panels on your home, it can boost its value by up to 20 times your annual energy bill savings. Recognizing the importance of supporting sustainable choices, several state legislators have taken action. Until the conclusion of 2024, newly installed solar systems will not incur additional property taxes based on their assessed value. This means that you won’t be penalized for your environmentally conscious decision to go solar.
Although net metering is a familiar concept to many companies, an often overlooked yet crucial aspect is the influence of rate structures. Switching to the most advantageous utility rate structure can greatly enhance the financial outcomes of a project, making it a significant factor to consider.
Effective from January 1, 2023, individuals purchasing a qualified used electric vehicle (EV) or fuel cell vehicle (FCV) from a licensed dealer at a price of $25,000 or less may be eligible for a used clean vehicle tax credit, also known as a previously owned clean vehicle credit. This credit amounts to 30% of the sale price, with a maximum credit cap of $4,000.
It’s important to note that the credit is nonrefundable, meaning you cannot receive more in credit than what you owe in taxes. Additionally, any excess credit cannot be carried over to future tax years. For further information, please refer to additional resources to learn more.
Notably, Electric Vehicle Chargers qualify for Investment Tax Credits (ITC) when installed in conjunction with a residential solar system or storage installation. To maximize the value received, ensure that all your energy efficiency upgrades are included in your Energy Plus Solar contract.
When your property adopts solar power, it enters into a “Net Energy Meter” agreement with the utility company. Net metering is a program that enables customers who generate their own electricity, such as through solar panels, to receive credits for any surplus power they produce and feed back into the grid. These credits can offset your future electricity bills.
Typically offered by utilities or state governments, net metering promotes the use of renewable energy sources and reduces strain on the electrical grid by allowing customers to contribute excess power during times of high demand.
Overall, net metering is a valuable option for those investing in renewable energy and aiming to reduce reliance on traditional power sources. However, program specifics may vary based on location and utility provider. It is crucial to research and understand the regulations and requirements in your area. Consult with your Manatee Solar Consultant to determine if you qualify for Net Energy Metering (NEM).
A study conducted by Zillow revealed that homes equipped with solar panels tend to sell for 4.1% more compared to similar homes without solar installations. Although there is limited research on the correlation between solar panels and commercial property valuations, it is generally understood that adding solar power has the potential to increase a property’s selling price. However, the actual impact on property value can vary depending on factors such as location, system size, and property type.
While the initial cost of installing solar panels may raise concerns for some, it is important to consider the long-term financial benefits. These benefits include energy savings and the potential for increased property value, which can offset the upfront costs. Discover how incorporating solar power can enhance your financial bottom line today!
Financing your solar system is a simple process, whether you have the means to pay cash or opt for a solar or home equity loan. You can save on energy costs immediately and long into the future. Once your loan is paid off, your energy is essentially free, making the future bright!
For individuals that have access to capital – money sitting in their savings account or in underperforming investments – investing in solar energy for their home is a great option. Investments in solar systems typically return the original investment (called the payback period) in 5 to 8 years, depending on the specifics of your situation. Once the system pays for itself – all of the future saving and income is yours to keep! That’s better than stock market returns, at lower than stock market risk.
- Claim local & federal tax incentives
- A Home Equity Loan can also be used & may be tax-deductible
- Your system will pay for itself with savings on your utility bills
- Increase your property value
Many want to use the bank’s money to fund their investment – with the objective of being cash-flow positive from the very first year of operation. In order to achieve this, we offer several solar loan packages with repayment lasting up to 25 years. Just like a cash purchase, once you’ve paid off the loan, the future saving and income is yours to keep!
You own your solar system and pay for it with a loan. You can pay off your loan at any time without penalty.
- No upfront costs
- Claim local & state tax incentives
- Loan term up to 20 years
- Credit Score 640+
- 25-year product warranty
- Low payments & immediate savings
The process of going solar involves various organizations, including government bodies, city authorities, HOAs, and utility companies. Our primary objective is to navigate this process in the most efficient manner possible. Due to the involvement of multiple representatives and agents from external organizations, it is challenging to provide an exact timeline. However, in general, most solar installations are completed within a couple of months from the moment the contract is signed.
Once the agreement is signed, we introduce you to your project coordinator. The project coordinator will schedule a site survey to make sure the installation goes smoothly. Of course, your representative from Manatee Solar is always available to answer your questions or address any concerns.
Once all the permits have been secured, your Manatee Solar project coordinator makes an appointment with you to have your home solar system installed. After a final inspection, your system is turned on and starts generating clean, renewable energy.
From the initial meeting through the life of your solar system, the team from Manatee Solar are available to answer your questions and address your concerns. Your satisfaction is our number one goal.
Solar Savings Add Up.
Your savings on solar start the day your system is turned on, but they last long into the future. As energy prices increase, your solar savings become even more valuable.
Solar News & Resources
There is so much to know and learn about solar technology and the effects it has on our lives. Learn more with the articles below. Check back often for the latest news.
Get Started
Don’t delay. Your solar saving are waiting for you. Contact us to get started on your solar savings journey.