Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Florida Policy:
1. Can I generate and store my own electricity without involving my utility company?
Yes, according to the Florida Solar Rights Act, “A property owner may not be denied permission to install
solar collectors or other energy devices based on renewable resources by any entity…”.
In fact, legislation was filed earlier this year that would demonstrate solar and energy storage’s ability to
maintain grid resilience during natural disasters and states of emergency. The bill establishes a pilot
program in the Florida Keys to install on-site solar generation and energy storage to provide electricity to
critical facilities during grid outages or failures. Representatives hope that the program will encourage
consumers, as well as utilities, to consider more storage options moving forward.
2. Can I connect my solar energy array to the electricity grid to buy and sell my generated
electricity?
Yes, according to Section 366.91 of the Florida statutes "On or before January 1, 2009, each public utility
shall develop a standardized interconnection agreement and net metering program for customer-owned
renewable generation."
Keep in mind, all systems must pass standard safety tests and be equipped with appropriate meters that
can measure your net energy impact on the grid.
3. Does the state of Florida provide any incentives for installing solar energy arrays?
All components of your solar array are tax exempt, including the storage and transmission hardware.
Additionally, your investment in your solar products will not affect your property tax bill.
Installations:
4. What's the difference between series and parallel connections?
When wiring your panels in series you are adding the voltage of each panel in the string while maintaining
a constant current. As an example, when connecting two panels in series, each rated at 12 volts and 5
amps, you are produce a string carrying 24 volts and 5 amps.
When wiring your panels in parallel, you are now adding the current of each panel while maintaining a
constant voltage. So, connecting the same two panels in parallel will produce a string that carries 12 volts
and 10 amps of electricity.
These two types of connections can be used to tailor your system for your storage and transmission
demands.
5. Are there any other components, aside from the panels, that I might need for my solar array?
There are a variety of hardware components that you may or may not need, depending on your system.
In general, most systems require a charge controller, which regulates the variable power that’s being
producing from the sun. Most often, an inverter is also needed to convert the direct current (DC) into an
alternating current (AC).