Tampa, Florida Solar Panel Cost: Savings and Payback (October 2025)

  • You'll spend an average of $10,290 on a 5 kW system in Tampa, Florida, after tax incentives.
  • For Tampa, you can use $2.94 per watt to determine the price of a larger system (system size x price per watt x 0.7 to account for tax incentives).

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Brogan Woodburn

Last updated: October 17, 2025

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How much do solar panels cost in Tampa, FL?

  • Cost: About $10,290 for a 5 kW system to $18,522 for a 9 kW system after tax credit.
  • Savings: 6 year payback; about $24,837 saved over 20 years.
  • Environmental benefits: Potential to reduce your carbon emissions significantly.

Installing a 5 kW solar panel system on your Tampa home can cost about $10,290 after tax incentives. Solar panel systems are measured by kW production, and the average system costs about $2,943 per kW of installed capacity. Looked at another way, you'll pay about $2.94 per watt for installation.

That said, our data shows a 9 kW system is the best size for Tampa residents. This is because people in Tampa consume 1,150 kWh per month of energy. The average electric bill is $146 per month with an average price of 12.73¢ per kWh. Considering this average, the right solar panel system has the potential to save you money in Tampa.

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Are solar panels worth it in Tampa?

Let's take a closer look at whether solar panels are worth it. To figure this out, you'll want to compare your estimated savings after solar to what you'd pay in energy without solar panels.

The payback period is the amount of time until you break even on your investment considering savings from energy bills. And the net 20-year savings is what you save over 20 years minus the upfront costs. Considering energy prices tend to rise over time, it's usually worth it to get solar panels if you can get a good installation price.

5 kWh System Tampa Average U.S. Average
Upfront Cost $10,290 $12,530
Payback period 6 Years 7 Years
Net 20-year savings $24,837 $23,114
*These are estimates. Getting personalized quotes from local installers is crucial for accurate pricing.

What's the best solar system size in Tampa, Florida?

To find out the right size of the solar system for your home, consider your energy usage, local sun hours, and available roof space. Here's what the average solar potential looks like in Tampa:

  • Roof size: 1,126.125 sq. ft.
  • System capacity: Up to 20,784.131 kW DC
  • Electricity production: About 1,657.208 kWh AC per year

The goal with solar panels is to find the sweet spot where you generate the electricity you need and can save enough energy costs to recoup your investment in a reasonable time.

Below you can see power generation, cost, and savings of different system sizes.

5 kW
System
6 kW
System
7 kW
System
8 kW
System
9 kW
System
Roof Space 358 ft²429 ft²501 ft²572 ft²644 ft²
Annual power value $1,055$1,266$1,477$1,688$1,757
Average cost $10,290$12,348$14,406$16,464$18,522
Average yearly production 8,286 kWh9,943 kWh11,600 kWh13,257 kWh14,914 kWh
Average monthly savings* $87.93 $105.52 $123.11 $140.70 best value$146.41
Full payback period 6 years7 years8 years9 years11 years
CO₂ reduction per year 2.76 tons3.31 tons3.87 tons4.42 tons4.60 tons
*Savings assume a $146.41 monthly electricity bill

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How to pay for solar panels in Tampa, Florida

Purchasing solar panels is no small task. Here are a few ways you can pay for solar:

  • Cash purchase: This is the best choice if you can afford it. Paying in cash gives you the best long-term savings but requires a larger upfront investment, of course.
  • Solar loans: You can spread the cost over time with a loan, but be mindful of interest rates and loan terms.
  • Solar leases and PPAs: Power purchase agreements (PPA) and leases have lower upfront costs. However, you don't own the system, which means you save the least over time. There can also be complications if you want to sell your home.

What affects the cost of solar panels in Tampa?

Several factors impact the final price of your solar installation:

  • System size: Larger systems cost more upfront but often yield greater long-term savings.
  • Panel type and efficiency: Monocrystalline panels are generally more efficient and expensive than polycrystalline or thin-film options.
  • Installation complexity: Roof type, shading, and site-specific challenges can increase installation costs. Permitting and inspection fees also factor in.
  • Additional considerations: Battery storage adds to the initial investment but provides backup power and greater energy independence. Labor and installation quality are also essential cost considerations.

How to save on Tampa, FL solar panel costs

Getting the most bang for your buck is essential when investing in solar. Here are some strategies to save money:

  • Maximize the federal tax credit: Understand the eligibility requirements and claim the full 30% credit.
  • Shop around for quotes: Get quotes from multiple installers to compare pricing and services. Don't just focus on the lowest price; consider reputation, experience, and warranty.
  • Consider system size: Be careful of going overboard. A properly sized system will meet your energy needs without unnecessary costs. Analyze your energy usage to determine the optimal size.
  • Explore financing options: Compare loan interest rates and terms carefully. If considering a lease or PPA, understand the long-term implications and potential trade-offs. Cash purchases often offer the best long-term savings.
  • Negotiate with installers: Don't be afraid to negotiate on price. Inquire about any discounts or promotions they may offer.
  • Optimize your home's energy efficiency: Before going solar, improve your home's energy efficiency. This will reduce your overall energy consumption and potentially allow you to install a smaller, less expensive solar system. Simple steps like sealing air leaks and upgrading appliances can make a difference.
  • DIY (if possible and permitted): While professional installation is generally recommended, some homeowners may be able to handle certain tasks themselves (like site preparation). Check your local regulations and be honest about your abilities.
  • Ask about rebates and incentives: Many states, cities, and utility companies offer rebates, net metering, and other incentives. Check with your local utility and city/county for any available programs.
  • Time your installation: Sometimes, installers offer discounts during slower periods. Inquiring about seasonal promotions might yield savings.

Florida-specific solar considerations

  • Weather Impacts: Florida is known for its sunshine, making it a fantastic place for solar energy. However, the state's tropical storms and hurricanes mean that you'll need robust, weather-resistant installations to keep your system secure and efficient.
  • Regulatory and Legal Considerations: The state offers some attractive incentives like net metering and tax exemptions, but local permitting processes and HOA guidelines can vary. It's always a good idea to do your homework before starting your project.

Get a custom solar quote in Tampa

Solar panels are worth it for many homeowners considering energy costs tend to rise over time. Compare your ongoing energy costs to the cost of a solar panel system to see if it's worth it for your Tampa home. We recommend getting a few quotes from different solar installers to find the best option.

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Solar panel pricing in cities near Tampa, Florida

Compare solar panel prices with neighboring cities.

Or look in a different location.

FAQs about Tampa, FL solar panels

How much do solar panels cost in Tampa, Florida?

Our data shows solar panels can range from $10,290 for a 5 kW system to $18,522 for a 9 kW system after tax credits. Total costs depend on the panel brand, type of inverter, installation company, and more.

How do I pay for solar panels?

The best ways to pay for solar panels include using cash or finding a loan with a good interest rate. We recommend avoiding power purchase agreements or solar panel lease programs since these reduce your savings significantly.

How much can I save with solar panels in Tampa?

How much you save depends on your current energy costs, usage, and the size of the system you need. Our data shows the average 5 kW system in Tampa saves owners $24,837 over a 20-year period.

Do solar panels work during a power outage?

Grid-tied solar panels typically shut off during a power outage to protect utility workers. If you want security for outages in Tampa, you can get a battery storage system to have a backup power supply.

Who are the best solar installers in Tampa, Florida?

Freedom Solar Power logo

Freedom Solar Power

Tampa, FL

(877) 281-6197

Services

    solar installbattery installsolar consulting
Momentum Solar logo

Momentum Solar

Tampa, FL

(888) 666-3688

Services

    solar installbattery install
Solar Advantage logo

Solar Advantage

Tampa, FL

(813) 399-1231

Services

    solar installgrid-tied solarsolar financing
Florida Power Services logo

Florida Power Services

Tampa, FL

(727) 667-9955

Services

    solar installsolar repairbattery installenergy monitoringgrid-tied solarsolar financing
Stanley Consultants logo

Stanley Consultants

Tampa, FL

(563) 264-6600

Services

    solar consulting
CMTA logo

CMTA

Tampa, FL

(502) 326-3085

Services

    solar consulting

Advanced Integrated Solar

Tampa, FL

(813) 467-6859

Services

    solar installgrid-tied solar
Allsolar Service Company logo

Allsolar Service Company

Tampa, FL

(813) 933-1454

Services

    solar installsolar repair
American Clean Energy Solar logo

American Clean Energy Solar

Tampa, FL

(855) 447-3132

Services

    solar installbattery install
Energy Harbor FL logo

Energy Harbor FL

Tampa, FL

(813) 212-0100

Services

    solar installsolar repairbattery installgrid-tied solar

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