Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Sarasota, Florida. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A top-tier, locally operated SunPower Master Dealer known for high-efficiency, premium solar panels and robust warranties. They offer comprehensive services from initial consultation and system design to installation, maintenance, and financing. Their strong manufacturer partnership with SunPower provides customers with some of the most efficient and durable panels on the market.
A highly specialized, locally-owned company focusing on solar and battery storage systems, particularly for resilience and off-grid capabilities. They are renowned for their expertise in designing systems that provide power during grid outages. Their consultative approach and deep knowledge of battery technology like Tesla Powerwall and Sonnen make them a standout for customers prioritizing energy independence.
A well-established regional installer serving Florida, including the Sarasota area. They are known for a full-service approach, handling everything from design and permitting to installation and monitoring. They offer various financing options and work with multiple equipment manufacturers to provide tailored solutions. Their strong review count and longevity indicate a solid track record of customer satisfaction.
The home solar market in Sarasota, Florida, is robust and highly competitive, driven by abundant sunshine, high electricity costs, and a population interested in sustainability and energy resilience. The average quality of installers is high, with numerous established, state-certified contractors operating in the region. Competition is fierce, which can benefit consumers through competitive pricing and enhanced service offerings. Typical pricing for a residential system ranges from $15,000 to $35,000+ before incentives, heavily dependent on system size, panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage. The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) remains a significant driver for adoption. A notable trend in the Sarasota market is a growing emphasis on battery storage integration due to concerns over hurricane-related power outages, with many providers now offering this as a core service.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Sarasota regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Sarasota, Florida.
For a typical Sarasota home, a solar panel system costs between $15,000 and $30,000 before incentives, depending on system size and energy needs. Crucially, Florida homeowners benefit from the 30% federal solar tax credit, which significantly reduces the net cost. Additionally, Florida has no state income tax, so there is no state-level tax credit, but you also benefit from the state's property tax exemption for added home value from solar and its sales tax exemption on solar equipment purchases.
Sarasota's abundant sunshine is ideal for solar production, but installations must be engineered for high-wind resilience. Reputable local installers will ensure your system meets Florida Building Code requirements, which include wind-load ratings for hurricane-force winds. High-quality panels are tested for impact resistance, and proper mounting is critical. It's also wise to discuss your homeowner's insurance coverage for the system with your provider.
FPL offers a net metering program for Sarasota customers. When your solar panels produce more electricity than your home uses, the excess is sent to the grid, and you receive a full retail credit on your bill. You can then use these credits to offset power drawn from the grid at night or on cloudy days. It's important to note that FPL's program resets annually, where any remaining credits are zeroed out, so proper system sizing to match your annual usage is key.
Prioritize local, licensed (a Florida Certified Solar Contractor license is required), and insured installers with extensive experience specifically in Southwest Florida. They will be most familiar with Sarasota County permitting, FPL interconnection processes, and local weather challenges. Always check reviews, ask for references from nearby installations, and verify they handle the entire process, including permits, inspections, and utility paperwork.
Yes, solar panels will generate power whenever there is daylight, even on cloudy or rainy days, though at a reduced output (typically 10-25% of their rated capacity). Sarasota's summer storms often pass quickly, and your system will return to full production rapidly. Your system is designed to meet your annual energy needs, factoring in these seasonal weather patterns, and net metering with FPL helps balance daily production fluctuations.