FPL Solar Overview
Florida Power & Light (FPL) serves approximately 12 million Floridians across the eastern coast and southern Florida. Despite the Sunshine State's solar potential, FPL has been notoriously hostile to rooftop solar—yet current net metering rules remain favorable.
Customers: ~5.8 million accounts
Net metering: Full retail rate (currently)
System limit: 10 kW residential
Solar rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great (policy risk)
Key concern: Net metering constantly under attack (Source: utility tariff filings and DSIRE Database)
Net Metering: Great Now, Uncertain Future
Current FPL Net Metering (2026)
FPL currently offers full retail net metering, meaning every kWh you export is credited at the same rate you pay for electricity. This is among the best policies in the country.
| Feature | FPL Policy |
|---|---|
| Export credit | Full retail rate (~$0.13-$0.16/kWh) |
| Credit rollover | Monthly, indefinite rollover |
| Annual true-up | Excess paid out at avoided cost (~$0.04) |
| System size limit | 10 kW residential |
| Meter type | Bi-directional smart meter (free) |
The Political Battle
FPL's parent company (NextEra Energy) has repeatedly lobbied to gut net metering in Florida. Key events:
- 2022: Legislature passed net metering phase-out, but Governor DeSantis vetoed it
- 2023-2024: Multiple attempts to reduce solar compensation failed
- 2025-2026: Ongoing lobbying continues
FPL Electric Rates
FPL rates are relatively low compared to national averages, which affects solar payback:
| Rate | Price/kWh | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential (first 1,000 kWh) | ~$0.12-$0.13 | Base tier |
| Residential (over 1,000 kWh) | ~$0.14-$0.16 | Higher tier |
| Demand charge (optional TOU) | Varies | Peak/off-peak option |
| Fuel adjustment | ~$0.04-$0.05 | Added to base rate |
Total effective rate: Most FPL customers pay $0.13-$0.17/kWh all-in. While lower than California or Northeast utilities, Florida's abundant sunshine compensates.
Expected Savings
| Monthly Bill | System Size | Annual Savings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|
| $150 | 6 kW | $1,500-$1,800 | 7-9 years |
| $200 | 8 kW | $2,000-$2,400 | 7-9 years |
| $300 | 10 kW (max) | $2,500-$3,000 | 6-8 years |
FPL Interconnection Process
FPL has a relatively streamlined interconnection process:
| Step | Timeline | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Application submission | Day 1 | Installer submits online |
| FPL review | 5-10 business days | Design and capacity review |
| Approval to install | 1-3 days | Green light for installation |
| Installation | 1-2 days | Physical installation |
| City/county inspection | 3-7 days | Local inspection |
| FPL meter swap | 5-10 days | Bi-directional meter installed |
| PTO | 1-2 days | Permission to operate |
Total timeline: 3-5 weeks from application to PTO. FPL is generally cooperative with residential solar interconnection.
Solar and Hurricanes
Florida's hurricane risk is a common concern for solar customers. Here's the reality:
Solar Panel Hurricane Performance
- Modern panels are tough: Rated for 140+ mph winds when properly installed
- Proper installation matters: Quality racking and attachment is critical
- Insurance typically covers: Homeowners insurance usually covers solar panel damage
- Failure points: Flying debris is bigger risk than wind itself
Battery Backup Value
After hurricanes, FPL outages can last days or weeks. A battery backup system provides:
- Power for refrigeration, medical equipment, communications
- Solar continues generating even when grid is down
- Independence from FPL restoration timeline
Why FPL Customers Should Act Fast
1. Net Metering Is at Risk
Every year, FPL lobbies to reduce solar compensation. Eventually, they may succeed. Customers who go solar NOW are typically grandfathered under current rules for 20 years.
2. Rates Will Rise
FPL has filed for rate increases almost every year. Locking in solar savings protects you from future rate hikes.
3. Federal Incentive (PPA/Lease)
If you use a PPA or lease, the solar company claims the 30% federal credit and passes savings to you through lower rates. This incentive is available through 2027 but may decrease after that.
4. Hurricane Season Readiness
Installing solar + battery before hurricane season gives you protection when you need it most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is FPL's system limit only 10 kW?
Florida caps residential net-metered systems at 10 kW. For most homes, this is sufficient to offset 100% of usage. Larger homes or those with high usage may not be able to fully offset their bills. Commercial properties have higher limits.
Does FPL offer any solar rebates?
No. FPL does not offer rebates for customer-owned solar. Florida also has no state solar tax credit. The main incentive is the federal credit (for PPA/lease) and property tax exemption (solar doesn't increase your property taxes).
What happens to my solar during a hurricane?
During a grid outage, solar-only systems shut down for safety (to protect utility workers). If you have a battery, your system can "island" and continue powering your home. Modern panels withstand 140+ mph winds when properly installed.
Is FPL good for solar?
Currently yes—full retail net metering is excellent. However, FPL actively lobbies against rooftop solar, so policies could change. Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) with policy risk asterisk.
How long until solar pays for itself in FPL territory?
Typical payback for FPL customers is 7-9 years for cash purchases, with immediate savings for PPA/lease. The abundant Florida sunshine and full retail net metering make economics favorable despite lower electric rates.
Questions About FPL Solar?
Our AI can answer specific questions about going solar with Florida Power & Light—net metering, sizing, hurricanes, and more.
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