Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Long Key, Florida. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A veteran-owned and operated company based in Fort Myers with a dedicated team serving the Southwest Florida and Keys region. They are known for their personalized customer service, high-quality equipment, and expertise in designing systems that can withstand the unique coastal environment. They handle the entire process from permitting to installation and maintenance.
As part of a large national provider (now ADT Solar), SunPro brings significant resources and buying power to its customers. They are known for robust warranty options, strong manufacturer partnerships, and streamlined financing. Their consultants are well-versed in Florida-specific incentives and the logistical requirements of installing in the Keys.
A highly-rated, locally-focused solar installer headquartered in Fort Lauderdale that specializes in serving South Florida coastal communities, including the Keys. They have a stellar reputation for craftsmanship and navigating the specific building codes and challenges of marine environments. They offer comprehensive design, installation, and maintenance services.
** The home solar market in Long Key, and the Florida Keys in general, is characterized by high-quality, specialized service providers rather than a high volume of competition. The unique environmental factors—salt spray, high humidity, and hurricane risk—necessitate installers with specific expertise in corrosion-resistant equipment and robust mounting systems. This creates a market where reputation, longevity, and proper licensing are paramount. **Average Quality:** The quality is generally high, as inferior installers do not last long in this demanding environment. The top providers use tier-1 solar panels and components specifically rated for coastal conditions. **Competition Level:** Moderate. While there aren't dozens of companies, the ones that do serve the area are established, professional, and compete on service, design expertise, and equipment quality rather than just price. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is typically at a premium compared to inland Florida due to several factors: the "coastal premium" for specialized equipment, higher labor and logistics costs associated with working in the Keys, and the engineering required for high-wind zones. System costs can range from **$3.00 to $4.00 per watt** before incentives. The 30% federal tax credit and lack of state sales tax on solar installations significantly reduce the net cost for homeowners.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Long Key regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Long Key, Florida.
Solar installations in Long Key must be engineered to withstand high-wind events, requiring specific mounting systems and racking rated for Florida's strict building codes (Florida Building Code, Section 3109). Reputable local installers use hurricane-rated hardware, often with wind uplift ratings exceeding 170 mph. Additionally, panels are rigorously impact-tested, and comprehensive insurance is essential due to the coastal location and associated risks.
The average gross cost for a residential system in Florida ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size and home energy use. Crucially, Florida homeowners benefit from the 30% federal solar tax credit, and there is no state sales tax on solar installations. While Florida has no state property tax abatement, Monroe County (which includes Long Key) offers a property tax exemption for the added home value from solar, and net metering with Florida Keys Electric Cooperative helps maximize savings.
From contract to activation, the process typically takes 3 to 5 months. This timeline includes site assessment, engineering design, securing permits from Monroe County and meeting any local architectural review requirements, the physical installation (1-3 days), and finally, inspections and approval ("Permission to Operate") from Florida Keys Electric Cooperative. Seasonal weather, especially the rainy season and hurricane forecasts, can sometimes cause minor delays.
Prioritize providers with extensive local experience in Monroe County, as they will be familiar with specific permitting, interconnection with FKEC, and hurricane code compliance. Verify they are a licensed Florida electrical and solar contractor (check license # with Florida DBPR), have strong references from nearby projects, and offer robust workmanship and production warranties. Be wary of out-of-area companies that may not understand the unique coastal installation challenges.
Yes. While daily production is highest in the spring, Long Key's annual average of over 250 sunny days provides excellent solar yield. Even during the summer rainy season, panels still generate significant power from diffuse sunlight, and rain helps clean them, boosting subsequent output. Proper system sizing by a qualified installer will account for seasonal variations and your annual consumption to ensure reliable year-round production and maximize your net metering credits.