Is Solar right for me?

While a solar system can generate electricity, it does not consistently produce power at all times. Solar output varies based on sunlight, weather, time of day, and seasonal conditions. The utility grid provides a reliable, continuous source of power when solar production is insufficient, such as at night, during cloudy weather, or when household demand exceeds system output. In Florida, most residential solar systems are grid-connected and not designed to operate independently. For safety reasons, these systems automatically shut down during utility outages unless paired with approved battery storage and isolation equipment. Remaining connected to the grid ensures continuous, reliable electrical service; safe operation of solar equipment; and compliance with state & Clay Electric interconnection requirements.

We process required documents, evaluate system specifications and ratings and install net meters. Upon execution of the Interconnection Agreement, the member’s account will be enrolled in the Clay Electric “Avoided Cost” net billing program, which allows eligible excess generation credits to be applied to the member’s electric bill. Please contact our Energy Services division before you invest in solar. Our personnel can answer your questions and help you determine if solar is a fit for your home. Please email solar@clayelectric.com.

You will need to consider the cost involved in:

• The solar purchase and installation. A general rule of thumb for calculating the cost of an RGS/Solar system is $4 per installed watt. A 5,000-watt (5 kW) RGS/Solar system costs approximately $20,000 initially. Federal tax incentives for residential RGS/solar systems ended on Jan. 1, 2026. The State of Florida does not offer direct incentives for the purchase of RGS/solar systems. However, Florida exempts most solar energy equipment from the state’s 6% sales tax and does not increase property taxes based on the added value of a solar installation. ***Members are strongly encouraged to carefully evaluate the financial commitments associated with RGS/solar systems prior to purchasing, as in most cases the total cost may exceed the cost of purchasing electricity from Clay Electric – a not-for-profit cooperative.***
• A battery storage system. Many members who install rooftop solar also choose to purchase a battery storage system. These systems allow you to store the power produced by the rooftop solar panels for later use, such as at night when solar panels are not producing solar energy but the home is still consuming it. This is an additional cost to an RGS/Solar system.
• Roof replacement (if needed). Rooftop solar panels are drilled into your roof directly. It is very important that your roof is in good condition so it can physically support solar panels. It is better to replace the roof prior to installation if needed. It can be costly to remove the solar system after installation, replace the roof and then re-install the solar system. Roof replacement can cost $10,000 to $20,000 or more, so it is an important factor to consider. Ground mounts might be a better option.
• Tree removal (if needed). You may decide that tree removal is necessary to get optimal solar output from your system. Tree removal can range from $100 to $5,000+ depending on the amount and size of trees that you want to have removed.
• Your electric rate. A common misconception with solar is that you will no longer receive an electric bill, or that your electric bill will be $0. Even members who purchase solar panels and a battery storage system will receive a Clay Electric bill each month. This is because solar arrays are not typically sized to meet the total energy needs of the home. Production can also be variable based on the weather. Solar members often rely on Clay Electric for at least a portion of their power, and they depend on the reliability offered by the grid. All members pay a monthly Access Charge that covers some of the basic costs of providing service.
• Your homeowner’s insurance. Each policy is different, so you should contact your insurance provider before installing an RGS/Solar system to make sure you do not need additional coverage.

Energy efficiency improvements. You might choose to make energy efficiency improvements to your home to optimize your energy use. Lowering your consumption needs could result in you being able to invest in a smaller RGS/Solar system.

• Operation and maintenance. Your system might need occasional maintenance or repair and cleaning.
• Rates. Evaluate kWh rates by reviewing Clay Electric’s rate and comparing it to the RGS/Solar cost per kWh.