Tampa Bay Solar’s Statement on the Passing of the Reconciliation Bill.

Statement from Steve Rutherford, Tampa Bay Solar President and CEO.

We were disappointed to see the passage of the Reconciliation Bill. Over the past decade we have seen significant progress and growth in the solar industry, here in Florida and nationwide. Now, this growth is jeopardized by the passage of the Reconciliation Bill. Solar tax credits are being eliminated, and by year’s end we will see never experienced economic downturns in the US’s infant solar industry.

In recent years, the growth of the solar industry has been substantial. We’ve gone from 1% solar penetration to 5%. Florida ranks number three in the country for solar with more than $18 billion invested, and more than 400 solar companies throughout our state. Florida alone has more than 20,000 solar employees and, close to my heart, approximately 10% of those are veterans.

At Tampa Bay Solar, the number of veterans is closer to 30%.

Now we face the possibility of slowed growth or more likely, decline. Currently, almost half of the Florida homeowners who installed solar panels over the past year relied on the current tax credit to help fund their projects. It allows Florida homeowners to deduct 30% of their solar installation costs from taxes. That’s a significant savings which is then invested back into local communities. Without this credit, we’ll see Americans struggle to afford solar and we’ll see electricity costs continue to rise, by some estimates upwards of 25%. Beyond the consumer impact, we’ll see statewide economic impact, job losses, and business closures.

But here’s what I’ll tell you. We’ve been here for more than 13 years and expect to be here for decades more. I’ve been fighting the good fight throughout the state and nationwide, and I won’t let up. I know solar power is where the future is and I’m here to make sure my employees are protected, my customers are protected, and this industry is protected.

During my last tour in the military as a US Navy SEAL we were able to deliver a solar system into Afghanistan, saving on fuel runs, and ultimately saving lives. When I retired, it was the obvious course to start a solar company – one that provides jobs to local veterans, delivers solar power to our local community, and improves the sustainability of our planet. We’re not going to stop now.

While we’re disappointed, we’re not deterred. I urge you to continue reaching out to your representatives and tell them how important solar energy is to Florida, the country, and our planet. Let’s continue to move forward with growth and sustainability for Florida and our Nation.

Steve Rutherford,

Founder and CEO

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   Based on 372 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
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   cliff smith 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Just had Tampa Bay Solar install solar on our home and garage. Very pleased with the entire experience, starting with the sales person Sharon Louis who came to our home and provided an overview of the entire process, including benefits of solar, price and financing options. Sharon was very professional, no high pressure, just straight talk and honesty. The office staff at Tampa Bay Solar have also been attentive and helpful. The crew that installed the solar on our home last week did an amazing job. Kudos to the team leader Fanez and his team of Daniel, Luis, Jose, Sanchez, Carlos and Alejandro. It took three days from start to finish. During this time the crew members were very polite and courteous and respectful of our home. When finished, Fanez went over everything involving the new system (it's pretty much automatic) and answered any questions I had. Before they left, they made arrangements with the City of St. Petersburg to inspect the installation the very next business day. System is fully operational now and looks great on our roof. So glad I went with Tampa Bay Solar,  their price was fair and the workmanship is first class all the way. Highly recommend this business.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ceantel Rubin 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Josh and his team did a great job installing the Solar Sol-Ark battery. Highly recommend the company and the professionals they employ.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   David Burrell 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I worked with Tim to get our Solar panel design going. Past several days we had James and his team installing the system. At the end, James explained everything, answered all of my questions, and made sure I was happy. Really good company, Tim, James and the team are all very professional. Please working with them!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Drew Logue 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fanez, Daniel, Luis and Jesus did a spectacular installation. Hard work, quality and attention to detail on every aspect of the job. Panels on the roof are straight as is the inverter and the rest of the gear. Engineer Dan and Sales from Tim also top-notch.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jose Tirado 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great experience to date with TBS. The office staff is very helpful, Sharon our sales rep was very responsive throughout our process, and the install team led by Peterson the team lead were great as well. The install team were polite, respectful, efficient, and knowledgeable about the product they were installing. Very appreciative of Peterson making an additional trip out post-install to address a question. As a veteran, I always seek to support veteran owned businesses when possible. Highly recommend TBS.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Janet Macek 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Keith and John from Tampa Bay Solar was so helpful in setting up my switch install inside my house if power goes out and made sure my inverter and all my solar panel was working properly. I just recently was able to move back into my house since Hurricane Helene. Tampa Bay Solar has always been helpful to me for years with anything I needed or had questions on. Their Staff is Outstanding!!!! If you want solar,Tampa Bay Solar is the one to trust and do the job right.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Steve Grimes 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fanez did our installer and was fantastic. He was fast and did a great job of communicating when he would be on site and when he could come back. He did a thorough job of explaining and demonstrating the system. I would recommend TB Solar and Fanez to anyone looking to add solar.
  
 
  
  
 
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Tampa Bay Solar’s Statement on the Passing of the Reconciliation Bill.

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