Solar news, tips and insights from the Tampa Bay Solar team.
AI data centers need a lot of power to run servers, cooling systems, and other equipment. As more large users seek service, Florida utilities are planning for higher demand and the infrastructure needed to support it. Florida has also updated how utilities handle very...
Where you install your solar panels matters. You can choose rooftop or ground-mount solar based on your home, sunlight, and available space. Rooftop solar can cost less since you can use the roof as the mounting base. Ground-mount solar needs extra work, such as...
Churches, synagogues and other places of worship have many expenses, from staff and programs to repairs and other building needs. Electricity is another necessary cost, and it can be expensive for a Florida religious facility. Leaders of places of worship may...
A common question is, “Is my roof big enough for solar?” The answer depends on your electricity use, the panels you choose, and how much of your roof is usable after considering shade, vents, and other obstacles. Key takeaways Your electrical usage determines system...
If you have noticed an increase in your electric bill, look beyond your energy usage. Your energy costs, demand, fuel charges, and fixed charges may be affecting your electricity bill. Learn more about each component, how it applies to your bill, and what solar can do...
When the power goes out, Florida homeowners usually choose between two options: a fuel generator or a solar battery backup system. Both can keep your home running, but they work in very different ways. We put together this guide to compare the two on cost, run time,...
Before any solar panel goes on your roof, a site survey has to happen first. This step tells you whether your building can safely carry the added weight, whether your electrical system can handle the new load, and whether your project will meet local building codes....
The July 4, 2026 deadline changed the timeline for certain solar projects, leaving many Florida nonprofits wondering if they missed their chance to benefit from federal incentives. Direct Pay (elective Pay) remains available to eligible tax-exempt organizations....
When a hurricane hits Florida, the power goes out. Sometimes hours. Sometimes days. For most businesses, that means locked doors, lost inventory, and missed revenue. Commercial solar and battery storage change that. When the grid goes dark, your business keeps...
Your land should work as hard as you do. Agricultural solar does exactly that. It cuts energy costs while supporting long-term property value. One investment. Two powerful returns. That is not just smart farming. That is owning your power. Key Takeaways Energy is one...
Solar is not just an energy upgrade. For Florida's industrial sector, it is a smart business decision that lowers operating costs, supports long-term planning, and strengthens your position with clients and partners. Across the state, manufacturing plants,...
The storm doesn't care what stage the crop is at. It doesn't care that cold storage is full, that irrigation ran all week, or that harvest starts Monday. When a hurricane hits and the grid goes down, the farm comes to a halt. Everything in it that depends on power is...
You cannot tell the difference between a quality solar panel and a cheap one by looking at it. They sit on the roof the same way. The sales pitch sounds similar. The price difference gets explained away as a "smarter value." Then year three arrives, or maybe year...
The storm hits overnight. By morning, the grid is down across your zip code. Your competitors are dark. But your building has power, refrigeration is running, security is live, and your team can work. That's not luck. That's what happens when a commercial solar system...
June 21 is the longest day of the year. In Florida, that means more sunlight hours than any other day on the calendar. For businesses already running on solar, it is a day of peak production, lower bills, and clean energy working at full capacity. For businesses still...
Florida community centers are meant to serve people, not to pay electric bills. Every dollar paid to utilities is money taken away from the mission. Solar helps change that. When you own your power, you save money and support the work that matters. For nonprofits in...
June 5th is World Environment Day, a moment for businesses and communities to ask one honest question: Are we doing enough for the planet? For most, the answer is no. But the solution is closer than you think. It is right above you, shining every day. This World...
Many Florida business owners assume they need to spend large sums because solar energy systems use complex technologies. The combination of utility programs, tax advantages, and financing options reduces the cost of commercial solar systems. This guide covers what...
Florida businesses are losing money every month, and electricity bills are a major reason. Costs across the state have climbed more than 60% since 2020. That is a serious hit to any business's bottom line. At Tampa Bay Solar, we get it. We were built by veterans who...
Every year on May 3rd, the world celebrates International Sun Day. First established in the United States in 1978, it was created to promote solar energy as a clean and affordable alternative to fossil fuels. Nearly 50 years later, that mission feels more alive than...
Energy bills in Florida do not take a break. But the good news is, neither does the sun. If you run a business, you already know how expensive electricity can get, especially when summer arrives. Spring is the smartest time to act. The weather is cooperative, the...
If your electricity bill is one of your biggest monthly expenses, you are not alone. Most farmers and agribusiness owners across Florida pay thousands of dollars every month to keep irrigation running, cold storage running continuously, and equipment powered. And...
Energy costs are one of the biggest expenses for any business. In Florida, commercial electricity rates keep rising every year. Whether you run a warehouse, a retail store, or an office building, your electric bill is likely draining thousands of dollars every month....
The planting season has begun, yet farmers are still facing challenges. Energy costs keep rising. The operation needs power because diesel costs are high and electricity charges increase while water pumps run, cold storage operates, and equipment is in use. Solar...
As cities grow rapidly, planners must create environments that are both comfortable to live in and environmentally friendly. Solar energy plays a big role in this change. Adding solar panels to buildings and incorporating solar power into city planning helps save...
As gas prices continue to surge, shifting toward green energy is more important than ever. One hidden impact of rising gas costs is higher electricity bills since much of our power comes from natural gas. In 2025, choosing solar panels isn't just about going green....
Helping Florida schools become more energy-efficient is one of our biggest goals at Tampa Bay Solar. That's why we're proud to be leading a major solar project at Manatee School for the Arts. This initiative not only saves the school money but also helps the...
On July 3, 2025, President Trump signed the "One Big Beautiful Bill" (OBBBA), also called the Reconciliation Bill. This law made significant changes to U.S. clean energy policy. It removed some controversial measures but accelerated the expiration of federal solar tax...
As prices rise and the dollar weakens, smart spending is key. When it comes to solar energy, where you buy your panels matters—it impacts your savings, system performance, and long-term peace of mind. Most people have experienced the frustration of buying something...
As solar energy adoption continues to grow across the United States, Tampa Bay Solar is proud to lead the charge in Florida with a significant project at Manatee School for the Arts in Palmetto. This rooftop solar installation is one of the largest of its kind on a...
A federal bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives may eliminate the 25D solar tax credit and put other solar incentives at risk. This key program enables Florida homeowners to deduct 30% of their solar installation costs from their taxes. The credit is set to...
With rising financial uncertainty and a weaker dollar due to recent political changes, saving money is more important than ever. In 2025, the federal solar tax credit will give homeowners a great way to reduce the upfront cost of installing solar panels. Despite...
How do you maintain solar panels: Get the Best from Your Investment Installing solar panels is the best way to save on electricity bills and create a smaller carbon footprint. However, regular checking and maintenance are crucial to getting the most out of your solar...
"Most Advanced Solar Home" Look Like 50 Years Ago? Solar transformation: Solar energy has evolved significantly in the past 50 years. Homeowners in Florida now have access to advanced solar technology that can power their entire homes. However, solar homes in the...
Solar Panel Myths: As more homes and businesses in Central Florida make the smart move to solar power, outdated myths still linger. Misconceptions about cost, maintenance, and performance in less-than-sunny weather often hold people back. At Tampa Bay Solar, we’re...
Across Florida, from Lakeland to Sarasota and St. Petersburg to Bradenton, communities celebrate Earth Day by focusing on the planet's well-being. Schools play a key role in teaching sustainability to future generations. Switching to solar energy is a primary step...
How to find a trustworthy solar Installer!: Going solar is a wise investment, but choosing the right installer is key to making it pay off. A licensed, experienced provider in Florida makes a smooth installation, long-term savings, and reliable performance. With...
How solar power helps reduce air pollution across Florida: Solar power is a powerful solution for reducing air pollution and combating climate change. Unlike fossil fuels, solar energy generates electricity without releasing harmful pollutants or greenhouse gases. By...
Why hire a solar expert: Solar power is the best way to save money and reduce your carbon footprint, but installing a solar system isn't as simple as it might seem. Many homeowners are tempted to tackle solar installation themselves, but this often leads to costly...
Today's homeowners seek ways to save money, increase property value, and make eco-friendly choices. One of the best ways to achieve these goals is by adding solar energy to your home. Pairing solar panels with other home improvements can make your home more...
Benefits of solar battery storage: You're not alone if your electricity bills are higher, especially during peak times. Demand charges often cause these extra costs. The good news is solar power and battery storage can help. With solar panels, you generate your...
Are you looking for ways to lower your monthly energy bill? "Off-peak" refers to lower electricity demand, usually outside peak morning and evening hours. Knowing when these off-peak times occur for solar energy users can help maximize savings. By using energy during...
How Many Solar Panels Does Your Home Need: Switching to solar power in 2025 is a great way to save money and help the environment. But to make the most of it, you need the correct number of solar panels for your home. Too few panels might not meet your energy needs,...
With energy costs rising and more people wanting to reduce their carbon footprint, many Florida homeowners are choosing solar energy. One popular option is the solar water heater. These systems are cheaper to install than full solar panels and offer significant...
Environmental Benefits of Going Solar: As the effects of climate change become more apparent, renewable energy sources are critical to reducing our environmental footprint. Solar energy, one of the most sustainable and abundant forms of energy, is increasingly being...
Free Solar Panels in Florida: The idea of "free solar panels" might sound appealing, but it's often not what it seems. Many offers that promise no-cost solar installations involve leasing agreements or power purchase arrangements (PPAs) instead of actual ownership....
Solar Choices For Florida: As the New Year begins, it's the perfect time to make choices that benefit the planet and your household. Investing in solar panels helps protect the environment, lowers your carbon footprint, and reduces energy costs in the long run. With...
Kickstart 2025 with Solar: As 2025 begins, it's a great time to switch to solar energy in Tampa, Florida. Solar energy is growing fast, with over 162 gigawatts of solar power installed nationwide. Florida, known as the "Sunshine State," is a top spot for solar...
How does weather affect solar panels: Solar panels provide clean energy, but the weather heavily influences their performance. Knowing how different weather conditions affect solar panels can help you maximize the efficiency of your solar power system. Here's an...
Florida solar incentives 2025: Benefits of solar panels in Florida: Homeowners in Florida should consider switching to solar power as 2025 draws near. Florida, known as the Sunshine State, has phenomenal solar energy potential, yet its rooftop solar installation ranks...
In Florida, winter brings cooler temperatures and a much-needed break from high electricity bills. With less need for air conditioning, Floridians enjoy lower energy usage and reduced costs. This is the perfect time to make the most of your solar energy system. Solar...
Power Outage Protection: 3 Solar Back-up Power Options Since 2010, Tampa Bay Solar has been helping homeowners prepare for Florida's challenging weather. With hurricanes like Milton and Helene causing widespread power outages, having a reliable backup power...
Living in Florida means enjoying sunny weather but also preparing for hurricane season. Big storms like Hurricane Helene (2024) and Hurricane Milton (2024) have shown how important it is to have reliable power when the weather gets rough. With winds over 160 mph,...
Hurricane season is always a difficult time for Florida residents, and this year's frequent storms make having reliable backup power more critical than ever. Hurricanes bring strong winds, heavy rain, floods, and the risk of extended power outages. Adding a whole-home...
With Hurricane Milton whipping across central Florida, residents are reminded of the critical importance of reliable energy sources. The state has recently endured the wrath of Hurricanes Debbie in August, Helene in September, and Milton in October, each leaving...
Hurricanes Helene and Milton both made landfall recently, unleashing fierce winds and torrential rain across Florida. With wind speeds reaching 120 mph, the storm caused extensive damage, leaving many residents without power for days. These disasters highlight the...
Hurricane Milton started as a tropical wave in the central Atlantic Ocean, and as it traveled westward, the warm waters fueled its rapid growth into a powerful Category 4 hurricane. With winds exceeding 140 mph, Milton brought intense rainfall, dangerous storm surges,...
Smart Solar Energy Florida: Progress in solar technology has recently advanced at an increased rate, thus extending the market for household solar energy use. A new generation of solar panels and solar storage systems are emerging to provide homeowners with more...
What Commercial Solar Proposals Don't Include Solar panels on commercial buildings are popular for cutting costs and boosting sustainability. When you receive proposals, they usually highlight lifetime savings, environmental impact, and tax benefits. However, there...
Florida Solar For All (FSFA) :Tampa Bay Solar: Bringing Solar Energy to More Floridians : Tampa Bay Solar is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking development for solar energy in Florida! The state has recently secured a $156.1 million grant from the Environmental...
Maximize Your Home's Energy Efficiency with the Sense Home Energy Monitor If your home uses a lot of electricity, consider energy monitors like the Sense Home Energy Monitor. This smart device attaches to the wires inside your circuit breaker panel and immediately...
How to calculate energy consumption in kWh: Florida homeowners have the power to save money and live sustainably. Understanding your home's energy consumption is not just a necessity but a tool that empowers you to take control of your energy usage. Whether you're...
For millennia, farmers have counted on the sun as their oldest and most reliable business partner. The sun has been essential in growing crops, maintaining healthy livestock, and ensuring bountiful harvests. Now, thanks to the USDA grant, farmers and rural small...
Some environmentally conscious individuals hesitate to go solar because they dislike the appearance of solar panels. This is surprising, given the harmful impact of fossil fuels on our planet's health. Beauty is subjective. While utility power poles may be considered...
Ask specific questions to ensure your commercial unit is best suited for solar panel installation. By doing so, you're saving costs and making a significant environmental impact. These inquiries will help determine if the system fits your needs, providing peace of...
The Residential Clean Energy Credit, also known as the Solar Tax Credit, provides a significant financial boost for homeowners considering solar energy. Using Form 5695, you can save a substantial amount on your taxes. In 2024, Form 5695 will expand beyond solar...
As a business owner, switching to solar power could be a top strategy to cut operating expenses, save money, and endorse renewable energy growth. Nowadays, businesses of all sizes opt for solar panel installation. Whether you aim to establish a sustainable brand,...
Despite recent economic challenges, the US solar industry continues to grow steadily and remains a significant force nationwide. Fueled by ongoing innovation, the Department of Energy views solar as the next primary American industry and predicts increased job...
At the heart of solar power lies the sun's inexhaustible energy. But how exactly do these solar panels of photovoltaic cells work their magic? Read on as we examine the fascinating process of solar energy generation. Essential Components of Solar Panels Most panels...
Solar-powered transportation creates a sustainable future for the automotive industry, addressing climate change and environmental issues. Integrating solar technology into transportation offers a promising solution. This paradigm shift towards solar-powered vehicles...
Advancements in solar energy technology: Solar technology has undergone remarkable advancements in recent years, revolutionizing how we harness and utilize renewable energy. As a solar specialist based in Florida , we are thrilled to unveil the latest breakthroughs in...
Solar energy is not just a part of our sustainability journey; it's a global powerhouse driving significant economic growth. Its exponential rise in recent years marks a transformative shift in the worldwide energy landscape, showcasing its potential to spur...
In Florida, more and more people are using renewable energy. Because there’s so much sun and solar panels are getting cheaper, Florida is getting ready for a significant increase in solar power. This article talks about how solar energy is growing in Florida, with...
Economic benefits of solar : Transitioning to solar power is the first step in your journey toward energy independence. After that, maintaining your solar panels, which have no moving parts and require little maintenance, is critical to ensuring they run efficiently...
Solar System Maintenance: Transitioning to solar power is the first step in your journey toward energy independence. After that, maintaining your solar panels is critical to ensuring they run efficiently and last for years, maximizing the return on your investment....
Solar energy systems aren’t only something to be added to a home after the fact – they can also be incorporated into the construction of a new home or property from the start to ensure clean, renewable energy is accessible at move-in time. In an era where sustainable...
As a business owner, it's important to have a plan in place for any unexpected disruptions that may occur. Your business must be prepared for any scenario, from natural disasters to power outages. Solar panels and solar battery backup can enhance your business...
With so many solar companies out there claiming to be the “best,” how do you find the actual cream of the crop? There are a few reasons that Tampa Bay Solar stands out. If you’re a Central Florida resident or business owner, here are a few outstanding benefits...
Despite solar energy’s numerous benefits, misconceptions about solar energy persist. As solar becomes more commonplace, more information about it is available than ever. However, there’s also misinformation found everywhere. As a team of solar experts who speak with...
Wondering how to save yourself from skyrocketing electricity bills? Making your home more energy-efficient can help you put money back in your pocket. From simple lifestyle changes to innovative technological solutions, there are countless ways to trim down your...
How does solar energy help combat climate change? Solar energy helps combat climate change by providing a clean, renewable energy source that reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Solar power does not release harmful pollutants like traditional fossil fuels do, making it...
At Tampa Bay Solar, we firmly believe that switching to solar energy is not just a wise financial decision but also a patriotic one. By going solar with us, you're contributing to the well-being of our nation in several significant ways. Here are the top reasons why...
Payback period for solar panels : Homeowners and business owners can cut electricity costs and avoid utility rate hikes by using self-produced solar power generated from solar panels. If you're shopping for solar, there's one metric that can help you determine just...
Do solar panels increase home value? Yes, it is. Solar panels are not just an eco-friendly option to power your home, but they also significantly contribute to the value of your property, potentially adding thousands to your home price. The increase in property value...
Do you find yourself scratching your head and wondering why your energy bill is getting higher and higher each month? You’re not alone. Increased energy bills are a common concern for Florida homeowners and business owners alike. Rising energy bills can cause a...
Are you thinking of buying a home? Have you ever considered buying one with solar energy? Investing in a solar-powered home will not only help you save money on your monthly electricity bills, but you'll also reduce your dependence on traditional power grids, increase...
Solar panels are a worthy investment as energy prices continue to rise and good stewardship of our planet becomes increasingly important. But even if you’re ready to switch to solar, there’s still one crucial decision you must make: whether to purchase or lease your...
As the world becomes more environmentally conscious and energy costs continue to rise, businesses are turning to solar energy as a sustainable and cost-effective solution. Not only does going solar help the environment, but it can also provide significant financial...
If your roof is in need of repairs or inching toward the end of its lifespan, it may be worth considering replacing your roof before installing a solar energy system. It's a tough call to make and may add an additional step to your journey, but it saves hassle down...
Are you considering solar energy for your home or business? Tampa Bay Solar is here to make the experience easier than ever. Our customer service and sales process is designed from start to finish with education and convenience in mind – no high-pressure sales tactics...
When Silicon Valley Bank went under in March of 2023, many investors began looking for a safe place to invest their money. There is risk in all investments; market-based equities are at the mercy of the stock markets, real estate can go down in value, and putting...
#EarthDay is the one holiday each year when all residents of this beautiful planet can take a moment to evaluate their own actions and lifestyles and find new ways to protect, support, and conserve our one and only home. Change can come from big and small places, and...
On Thanksgiving day in 2022, a power grid substation in Clackamas, Oregon was attacked by unknown vandals who used rifles to try to damage critical components and transformers. No one lost power, but the substation was damaged. December 3, 2022: There was a similar...
The solar industry has seen rapid growth in recent years, but two particular factors have contributed to its even faster ascent in 2022. Natural gas price increases and the extension of the 30% tax credit propelled the industry from different angles. The increase in...
More and more people are opting for rooftop solar panels as an affordable and sustainable energy option, but we’ve seen a major uptick in requests for two things in particular: battery back-up systems for solar panels and home charging systems for electric vehicles....
Today, in the summer of 2022, the price of every commodity across the globe is increasing. These price increases, along with the monetary inflation we’re facing, are making an impact on everyone’s finances, especially those who are retired on a fixed income. ...
Gas prices don’t seem to be settling down anytime soon, and while you may not be seeing the impact on your electric bills immediately, the increase in gas prices spells out an expensive future for standard electricity. Understanding how the prices you pay at the...
Over the last six months one of the frequent questions heard around our warehouse has been “Where’s Steve, up in Tallassee again?” Our CEO and Founder, retired navy SEAL Steve Rutherford, drove 10 hours round trip to Tallahassee many times over the past year to meet...
We send $700 million dollars to Putin EVERY. Single. Day Russia takes in $700 million dollars per day in global revenue from natural gas and oil sales. Some of that revenue is used to fund the tanks, missiles, and soldiers who are now brutally murdering Ukrainian...
Net metering in Florida is — for the most part — one-for-one. This means that if any solar panel array generates excess power, that power feeds back to the power grid, and the solar owner is credited one kilowatt hour (kWh) per one kWh pushed back to the power...
It’s no secret that we love plug-in electric vehicles (EVs) here at Tampa Bay Solar — in fact, most of the Tampa Bay Solar team uses solar panel arrays on their homes to charge their EVs. And now, the team is adding a 240-volt outlet — the amount needed to...
Few vehicles have disrupted the automotive industry as much as the Ford Model T — the world’s first mass-produced, affordable automobile. When the Model T was first introduced in 1908, it was new technology that virtually ended the horse-and-buggy era; Ford sold...
On May 19, 2021, Ford Motor Company unveiled the new, all-electric F-150 Lightning pickup truck for model year 2022. The gas-powered F-150 has been the best-selling vehicle in the United States for the last 30 years, and the best-selling truck in the USA for the...
Ever since the new year and a new administration in the White House, there have been several developments that will impact electric and solar prices in Tampa Bay and across the nation. Let’s take a look at these developments and how they’re affecting energy...
Ben Alexander of Tampa Bay Solar provides his experience with helping others go debt-free with solar panels and electric vehicles. Read below to learn more about how you too can lower or erase your debt by embracing green tech. I’ve been teaching a “Go Debt Free”...
At Tampa Bay Solar, one of the most common concerns we hear from potential clients is that installing solar panels will damage their roofs. In this blog, we’ll share the story of Tampa Bay Solar sales trainer and blog writer, Ben Alexander — and explain why choosing...
The state of Hawaii has more solar panels per roof than any other state in the nation. Why? Because Hawaii has zero indigenous fossil fuels to power their utility grid. The island’s igneous rock is geologically recent; it does not contain fossil fuels like the...
Have you ever thought about where your electricity comes from? Some might say, “As long as I have lights, air conditioning and Netflix, who cares?” But if you breathe oxygen, you should care—especially since in 2019 over 63% of the electricity generated in the...
As the old adage goes, there’s strength in numbers: The more people that transition to solar power, the sooner we’ll be able to reap the environmental and energy cost benefits as a society. Every single one of Tampa Bay Solar’s home-owning associates have already...
During market downturns, homeowners with money in mutual funds have a couple of different options: One option is to sell and move that money into treasury bills or municipal bonds, with a 1% return. Another option is to keep their money in a poor-performing mutual...
“How do solar panel systems work during a blackout?” The answer depends on what system you have. Learn your options, the pros and cons, and compare costs.
Learning about solar for your home can help you plan for the next downturn in the economy, and insulate your budget from rising electric costs in the future.
For the least 2 years I’ve been helping homeowners go solar all over Tampa Bay. One of the questions that I get all the time is: “We’re in Florida, why don’t we all have solar yet?” Here are some factors that are holding back solar in this state: 1. People still think...
