1. Start with usage, not a panel count.
A credible residential proposal begins with at least 12 months of electricity usage, the utility rate structure, roof orientation and shading, and the condition of the roof. The question is not “how many panels fit?” It is “what production target, equipment, and financing structure serve this property under the rules that apply today?”
2. Understand FPL interconnection before you install.
FPL describes net metering as a way for approved customer-owned generation, including solar, to offset some annual energy requirements. A customer must apply for interconnection, and FPL states that excess electricity can be deducted from a monthly bill or credited toward a future bill within the same calendar year.[1]
FPL’s current guidelines state that a qualifying renewable system seeking interconnection must be estimated to produce less than 115% of annual kWh consumption. They also place systems in tiers: Tier 1 is up to 10 kW, Tier 2 is above 10 kW through 100 kW, and Tier 3 is above 100 kW through 2,000 kW.[2]
| Ask before signing | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| What annual kWh did you size against? | It shows whether the production target is grounded in actual usage. |
| What is the estimated system output? | It is the basis for comparing output with the 115% guideline. |
| Who owns each interconnection step? | The customer account holder, installer, AHJ, and FPL each have defined roles. |
3. Treat financing as an all-in cost decision.
Compare cash, loan, lease, and PPA structures using the same timeline and the same assumptions. A lower remaining utility bill is not the same as a lower total energy cost if financing payments are separate. Ask for the contract price, payment schedule, escalator (if applicable), dealer fees, prepayment terms, lien or UCC treatment, and ownership of incentives.
Florida’s Department of Revenue identifies an energy-related sales-tax incentive under section 212.08(7)(hh). The Florida Legislature’s renewable-energy-source-device provisions are also relevant to property-tax treatment. Confirm current applicability to your transaction with the appropriate agency and a qualified tax professional.[3][4]
4. Solar production and outage backup are different jobs.
Solar panels can reduce grid energy purchases when the system is operating and interconnected; they do not automatically keep every circuit running during an outage. FPL notes that operation during an outage requires appropriate equipment, such as a specialized inverter or battery system, and its battery guidance distinguishes customer-use storage from energy exported to the grid.[2]
If backup is important, specify the circuits and duration you actually need: refrigeration, internet, a well pump, medical equipment, lighting, or a full-home load. Then make the proposal answer those requirements explicitly.
5. Use a contract review checklist.
A better next step
Request a proposal you can actually compare.
Palm Beach Solar is an independent advisor. We match qualified homeowners with vetted, licensed installer partners; the selected installer performs installation, permitting, and warranty work.
Frequently asked questions
How does FPL net metering work for a homeowner?
After approved interconnection, a qualifying system can reduce electricity purchased from FPL. Excess generation may be credited to future bills within the same calendar year. Review FPL’s current program documents before you sign a contract because program rules and billing treatment can change.
How large can a grid-connected solar system be?
FPL’s current guidelines state that a renewable system seeking net-metering interconnection must be estimated to produce less than 115% of the customer’s annual kWh consumption. A properly sized system should be based on actual bills, site conditions, and the interconnection rules in force when you apply.
Do solar panels provide power during an outage?
Not necessarily. FPL’s guidance explains that a grid-interconnected system needs appropriate equipment, such as a specialized inverter or battery system, to operate during an outage. A solar proposal should clearly distinguish production, backup power, and battery capabilities.
What Florida tax provisions should I ask about?
Florida has a sales-and-use-tax exemption for qualifying solar energy systems and a property-tax treatment provision for renewable energy source devices. Eligibility and implementation can depend on the equipment, property, and transaction structure, so confirm the current rules with the appropriate agency or a qualified tax professional.