FPL Solar Together Pros and Cons (2024)

FPL Solar Together Pros and Cons
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The FPL SolarTogether program provides a unique opportunity for Florida Power & Light customers to participate in solar energy without the requirement for rooftop installations. This subscription-based strategy enables participants to support solar projects while benefiting from green energy, making it an appealing alternative for many. However, like with every endeavor, there are both pros and negatives to consider. In this lengthy article, we will look at the fpl solar together pros and cons, and compare it to other solar choices in Florida.

What is the FPL SolarTogether Program?

The FPL SolarTogether program allows consumers to subscribe to solar energy generated at authorized solar installations in Florida. Participants pay a monthly charge depending on the amount of solar capacity they want to support, and they earn credits on their electricity bills for the energy provided by these solar panels. This initiative is especially useful for renters and people who are unable to put solar panels on their homes.

Pros of the FPL SolarTogether Program

1. No upfront costs

One of the most notable benefits of the SolarTogether initiative is that it needs no initial investment. Unlike conventional solar panel installations, which may be expensive, this subscription model enables clients to enjoy solar energy without incurring financial costs.

2. Accessibility to All Customers

The program is offered to all FPL customers, including renters and those who live in multi-family homes. This inclusion implies that more individuals, regardless of housing status, may join in renewable energy efforts.

3. Support for Renewable Energy Development

By subscribing to SolarTogether, members actively contribute to the growth of solar energy in Florida. This boosts the state’s renewable energy capability and promotes environmental sustainability.

4. Monthly Costs

The program’s set monthly charge enables clients to better manage their energy expenditures. This dependability may be especially enticing in a volatile energy market.

5. Environmental benefits

Participation in the SolarTogether initiative helps to reduce carbon emissions and dependency on fossil fuels. Customers who support solar energy contribute to the fight against climate change and promote healthier air.

Cons of the FPL SolarTogether Program

1. Savings are limited compared to rooftop solar

While members get bill credits, the savings via the SolarTogether program may be much smaller than those obtained by installing personal solar panels. Homeowners who invest in rooftop systems often receive larger long-term financial returns.

2. Monthly Subscription Fees

Subscribers must pay a monthly charge, which may accumulate over time. Although this tax is designed to cover the costs of solar generation, it may not necessarily result in significant savings on electricity bills.

3. Dependence on utility rates

The financial advantages of joining SolarTogether are directly related to FPL’s electricity prices. If rates vary or net metering regulations alter, customers’ savings may be reduced.

4. Potential for limited energy production

The quantity of electricity produced by solar installations might fluctuate depending on weather conditions and seasonal variations. This unpredictability might affect the credits obtained on monthly invoices.

5. No ownership of solar assets

Participants in this scheme do not own any actual solar panels or equipment, thus they lose out on possible tax breaks and rebates offered to homeowners who build their own systems.

How Much Does Solar Panels Cost in Florida Compared to Other States?

In Florida, the average cost of installing solar panels is about $2.70 per watt, which is somewhat less than in many other states around the country. For example:

  • California: The average cost per watt is around $3.50.
  • Texas: The average cost per watt is around $2.90.
  • New York: The average cost is about $3.20 per watt.

This inexpensive cost makes Florida an appealing location for solar installation, particularly given the abundance of sunlight throughout the year.

How Does FPL’s Minimum Bill Requirement Affect Solar Panel Savings?

FPL has introduced a $25 minimum bill requirement, which cannot be offset by solar output. This implies that even if your solar panels generate enough power to fully satisfy your needs, you will still owe at least $25 per month simply to be connected to the grid.

Impact on Savings

  • Fixed costs: The minimum bill requirement may dramatically diminish the potential savings from a solar system, especially for those who use less power.
  • Solar Investment: For homeowners who have invested in rooftop systems anticipating significant savings, this requirement may seem like a punishment that negates their investment.
  • Monthly Budgeting: Customers must factor in this minimal price while calculating their monthly spending, which might complicate financial planning.

Comparing Solar Together to Traditional Solar Options

When deciding whether to join the FPL Solar Together program or invest in a standard rooftop solar system, it is critical to thoroughly analyze both options:

Cost Analysis

  • Rooftop Systems: While they need a considerable initial expenditure (between $15,000 and $20,000), net metering provides better long-term benefits.
  • SolarTogether: The subscription model offers an affordable alternative with no

Flexibility vs Control

  • Rooftop Systems: Homeowners have complete control over the energy they produce and use.
  • SolarTogether subscribers have freedom but do not own any physical assets.

Accessibility

  • Rooftop Systems: Require enough roof space and ownership.
  • SolarTogether is open to all FPL customers, including renters and those unable to install panels.

Is FPL SolarTogether Right for You?

To determine if the FPL SolarTogether program meets your requirements, various variables must be considered:

1. Financial Situation

SolarTogether may be intriguing if you want to get started with sustainable energy without spending a lot of money upfront. Traditional rooftop installations, on the other hand, maybe preferable if you have the necessary funds and want to save money in the long run by owning your system.

2. Living Situation

If you rent or live in a neighborhood where installing panels is not an option, joining SolarTogether enables you to support renewable energy without requiring physical installations on your home.

3. Energy Consumption Patterns

Consider your usual monthly energy consumption; if you use less power overall or have high-efficiency equipment, you may discover that conventional systems provide greater long-term savings than paying a set subscription fee with a minimum bill requirement.

4. A commitment to sustainability

If supporting renewable energy efforts is important to you, but you don’t want to have physical equipment at home or deal with the maintenance concerns that come with rooftop systems, subscribing might be a good match.

Additional Considerations

1. Understanding Net Metering Policies

FPL provides complete retail net metering to households that build their own systems. This implies that any extra electricity produced may be credited at retail prices rather than the cheaper wholesale rates provided by subscription schemes such as SolarTogether.

2. Assessing Your Energy Needs

Before picking between solutions, examine your monthly energy usage habits. If you routinely utilize less power than your system can provide, you may end up paying more owing to minimum bill requirements.

3. Future Utility Rate Changes

Utility tariffs are susceptible to change due to regulatory actions or market circumstances. Staying updated about prospective rate increases might help you make more educated choices about your solar investment plan.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision

In conclusion, the FPL SolarTogether program has both benefits and drawbacks that prospective customers should carefully assess. While it offers an affordable alternative to support renewable energy programs, it may not result in considerable savings when compared to standard solar choices.

If you want to learn more about your alternatives or get personalized advice based on your individual circumstances, get a quote now! Engaging with specialists may help you explore your options and evaluate if the FPL SolarTogether program corresponds with your sustainability and financial objectives.