"After making many phone calls to different solar panel installation companies in the area, I decided to go with Florida Electric and Solar for my solar conversion. By far, the most professional and courteous. They listened to all my concerns and answered all my questions. The project went seamlessly and was exactly what I wanted and am now fully solar! 10/10 would recommend for all your solar needs!"
"Dominick Porretto and Tatiana Porretto arrived promptly , and accurately evaluated our solar system. Dominick professionally described the solar system and explained what the repair would entail. Then he and Tatiana worked together resolving our solar system malfunction issue. Dominick knew how to contact Enphase, interact with them getting our monitoring system up and running. Heart felt thanks to Dominick and Tatiana."
With over 14 years experience, Region Solar is the most trusted and experienced partner in solar installations. A family run business that has been serving Sarasota/Manatee and surrounding areas since 2007. We are committed to providing our customers with the best service and highest quality equipment for all our solar installations. \n\nRegion Solar was selected as the solar provider for the Sarasota Solar Co-op.
Freedom Solar is a full-service solar company installing solar panels and backup power systems for homeowners and businesses since 2007. Our mission is to provide complete residential and commercial solar power solutions with quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and excellent customer service that inspires you to recommend us to others.
"Eric arrived this morning, was very nice. Asked questions and listened to me, even though I do not know much about plumbing. Found the vent (I did not know where it was) and cleared my clog. Answered my questions about what was done and gave me tips for septic maintenance. Overall excellent work! I can finally wash clothea!"
Although solar panels harness the sun's power, they come at an environmental cost. The manufacturing process requires large amounts of water and involves hazardous materials like cadmium, silicon, and gallium arsenide. These materials don’t pose safety hazards while the panels are in use but can pose a problem when left in landfills. Over time, hazardous materials can leach into the environment. This is why recycling solar panels whenever possible is better than taking them to landfills.
The actual time it takes to construct the solar farm is relatively short, taking between 2 and 4 months on average. That timeline is dependent on site conditions, crew size, and the overall size of the solar farm.
However, the time it takes to get the ball rolling is significantly longer, ranging from 3 to 5 years. With a project of this scale, you’ll need to obtain all of the proper permits and approvals to start breaking ground, and depending on your location, that could be an extended process.
Yes, a solar panel can power a TV without a battery, but only if the sun is shining and the panel is generating enough energy. Your solar panel and TV must have the same voltage, and you should install a charge controller and inverter between them so power surges don’t destroy your TV. To watch TV at night, in the early morning and late afternoon, and on cloudy days, your home must be tied to the power grid.
The best way to save money on solar panels is to take advantage of federal and state solar incentives. For example, the solar investment tax credit (ITC) offered by the federal government can save 30% of your total—if you can take the entire credit, which is based on income taxes owed—or an average of around $9,000. You can check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) for state and local incentives that could save you even more.
While you can install solar panels by yourself, it can be a complicated process full of lots of manual labor, risky roof work, and knowledge of electrical wiring. Most solar panel installation projects should be reserved for a trained professional—especially if you plan on connecting your panels to the electrical grid rather than for off-grid use, which doesn’t require utility services.
The Venice, FL homeowners’ guide to solar panel services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
There are a few factors to consider when it comes to solar panel repair costs. This guide breaks down the prices of solar panel removal, repair, and replacement.
Find out how much it costs to remove solar panels, including average prices, key cost factors, and tips to save money on your solar panel removal project.
There are three types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. Before choosing one for your home, here are the pros and cons of each.
If you’re making the switch to solar energy, you’ll want to know the difference between solar panels versus solar shingles. Here are the pros and cons of each.