Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Auburndale, Florida. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Sunrun is one of the nation's largest residential solar, battery storage, and energy services companies. They are a major player in the Florida market, known for their robust financing and leasing options (like their "Sunrun EasyPay" monthly plan) which make solar accessible without large upfront costs. They offer comprehensive services from design to maintenance and have strong partnerships with equipment manufacturers.
Titan Solar Power is a top-rated national installer known for its high-efficiency systems and expertise. They have a significant presence in Florida and are particularly noted for their customer service and professional installations. They work directly with homeowners (no subcontractors) and offer a wide range of solar and battery storage solutions, focusing on both grid-tied and off-grid capabilities.
A long-standing, Florida-based company with deep roots in the state. Solar Source has built a stellar reputation for quality workmanship and reliability over decades. They are a premier local provider for the entire Gulf Coast and Central Florida, offering everything from initial consultation and design to installation, repair, and maintenance. Their longevity speaks to their expertise and customer satisfaction.
The home solar market in Auburndale, Florida, is robust and competitive, benefiting from the state's abundant sunshine and favorable net metering policies. The average quality of providers is high, with a mix of well-known national companies (like Sunrun) and highly respected regional installers (like Solar Source) vying for business. Competition is strong, which is beneficial for consumers as it leads to competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in Auburndale ranges from **$15,000 to $35,000+** before incentives, depending on system size (typically 6kW to 12kW for an average home) and equipment quality. The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC), which currently allows for a 30% tax credit, significantly reduces the net cost. Most reputable companies are highly knowledgeable about these incentives and financing options, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), making solar an increasingly accessible investment for homeowners in the area.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Auburndale regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Auburndale, Florida.
For a typical Auburndale home, a solar system costs between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size and energy needs. Crucially, Florida has no state income tax, so there is no state-level solar tax credit, but you still qualify for the 30% federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Additionally, Auburndale residents benefit from Florida's property tax and sales tax exemptions for solar equipment, ensuring added panels don't increase your property taxes and you pay no sales tax on the system.
Auburndale's abundant sunshine is ideal for solar production, but local factors like frequent afternoon thunderstorms in summer and high humidity year-round must be considered. High-quality, modern panels are designed to withstand hail and heavy rain, and the heat can slightly reduce peak efficiency, which is factored into system design. It's essential to choose a licensed installer who uses corrosion-resistant mounting hardware to combat humidity and includes proper ventilation to mitigate heat buildup under the panels.
Prioritize providers licensed in Florida (check their status on the Florida DBPR website) and specifically experienced with the interconnection process for Lakeland Electric, our local utility. Look for companies with strong references in Polk County, as they will understand local permitting, Auburndale's specific wind-load requirements, and optimal designs for our roof types. Always get multiple detailed quotes and verify they handle the entire permit and inspection process with the city.
From contract to activation, the process typically takes 2 to 4 months in Auburndale. This timeline includes system design, securing permits from the City of Auburndale, scheduling installation (which itself takes 1-3 days), and the final inspection and approval from both the city building department and Lakeland Electric. Seasonal weather delays during the rainy summer or peak installation periods can extend this, so planning ahead is advisable.
Standard grid-tied solar systems in Auburndale will automatically shut off during a power outage for safety, to prevent sending electricity back to the grid and endangering utility workers. To have power during outages, you must pair your system with a solar battery storage solution, like a Tesla Powerwall or similar. Given Florida's hurricane risk, many local homeowners opt for battery backup to provide essential power when the grid goes down, making it a valuable resilience investment.