Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Saint Augustine, 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 popular Power Purchase Agreement), strong manufacturer partnerships, and comprehensive service from design to maintenance.
Tesla is a globally recognized leader in renewable energy, offering a highly integrated solar and storage solution. Their key strength is the seamless combination of Tesla Solar Panels (or Solar Roof) with the Tesla Powerwall battery, all managed through a single, intuitive app. They focus on a streamlined, direct-to-consumer model.
A premier Florida-based solar contractor with a long-standing reputation for high-quality installations and exceptional customer service. As a local company, they have deep knowledge of Florida's building codes, weather challenges (like hurricane resilience), and incentive programs. They handle everything in-house from design to installation.
** The home solar market in Saint Augustine is **robust and highly competitive**. The combination of abundant sunshine, high electricity costs relative to the national average, and frequent power disruptions from tropical weather makes solar plus battery storage an increasingly attractive investment. * **Average Quality:** The quality is generally high, with providers well-versed in the strict Florida Building Codes for hurricane resistance. Customers have access to top-tier equipment from manufacturers like Qcells, Panasonic, and Tesla. * **Competition Level:** The market is saturated with both national corporations (like Sunrun and Tesla) and established regional specialists (like Solar Source). This competition benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a variety of service and financing models. * **Typical Pricing:** Pricing varies significantly based on system size, equipment quality, and roof complexity. However, a typical 6kW system (without batteries) can range from **$18,000 to $25,000 before the 30% federal tax credit**. The addition of battery storage, which is highly recommended in this area for backup power, typically adds $10,000 to $20,000 or more to the total cost. Most companies offer $0-down loan and lease options, making systems accessible without large upfront payments.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Saint Augustine regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Saint Augustine, Florida.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Saint Augustine, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you are eligible for the 30% federal tax credit, and Florida has no state income tax, so there are no additional state-level tax credits. However, you benefit from the state's property tax exemption for the added home value from solar and its sales tax exemption on equipment, which help lower the net cost. Local utilities like FPL and JEA also have net metering programs that provide bill credits.
Solar panels installed in Saint Augustine must be rated for high wind speeds (often 160 mph or more) to meet Florida Building Code requirements for hurricane resistance. The salty, humid air necessitates corrosion-resistant hardware and proper sealing to prevent degradation. High-quality installers will use appropriate mounting systems and ensure your system is properly permitted and inspected to withstand our specific coastal weather challenges.
From signing a contract to system activation, the process typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes engineering design, securing permits from St. Johns County and possibly your local municipality (which can be slower during peak seasons), the physical installation (1-3 days), and the final inspection and interconnection approval from your utility (JEA or FPL). The sunny winter and spring months are popular installation times, so planning ahead is wise.
Prioritize providers with extensive local experience, proper Florida state licensing (Electrical Contractor license), and strong knowledge of St. Johns County permitting and the interconnection rules for your specific utility (JEA or FPL). Ask for references from nearby installations, verify they handle the entire permit process, and ensure they offer robust warranties that cover both equipment and workmanship against our coastal weather.
Yes, modern solar panels still produce energy on cloudy and rainy days, though at a reduced output. Saint Augustine's high annual sunshine (over 220 days) means your system will generate significant surplus during sunny periods, which can offset lower-production days through net metering credits with your utility. The summer months actually see peak production due to longer daylight hours, even with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.