Florida is increasingly embracing solar energy at an unprecedented pace. This isn’t just about individual homeowners installing panels; it’s a significant shift that is profoundly reshaping the state’s construction industry. From new residential developments to large-scale commercial projects, solar integration is becoming a cornerstone of modern construction, driven by economic benefits, environmental imperatives, and evolving building practices.
Florida has rapidly ascended as a national leader in solar installations. In the first half of 2023 alone, Florida surpassed all other US states in solar power capacity added, a remarkable achievement that outpaced even California and Texas [2]. This surge is powered by several factors, including abundant sunshine, declining costs of solar technology, and supportive policies at both federal and state levels. The state’s utility companies are also heavily investing in large-scale solar farms, with projections indicating over 6,100 megawatts of utility-scale solar generating capacity by the end of 2033 from companies like Duke Energy Florida [4].
The economic benefits of solar energy for Florida’s construction industry are multifaceted. For developers, incorporating solar can significantly lower long-term operating costs for buildings, making properties more attractive to buyers and tenants. Businesses embracing solar, like a Tampa business that installed over 450 panels, are projecting millions in energy cost savings over decades [2].
Furthermore, the growth of the solar sector directly translates into job creation within the construction industry. Reports indicate that decarbonization efforts, heavily reliant on solar deployment, will expand and create higher-paying jobs across various skill levels in Florida, including significant growth in the construction sector for installation and mechanical skills [1]. This is not merely about solar panel installers; it extends to engineers, designers, project managers, and maintenance technicians.
Beyond the economic advantages, the environmental benefits of solar energy are increasingly a priority for Florida’s construction industry. As a state highly vulnerable to climate-related impacts like hurricanes and rising sea levels, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions is critical [2]. Solar power offers a clean, renewable energy source that contributes to a more sustainable future.
Moreover, solar energy, especially when coupled with battery storage, enhances energy resilience, a crucial factor in a hurricane-prone state. The ability to provide reliable electricity during power outages caused by natural disasters is a significant advantage that is driving the adoption of solar solutions in new constructions [2].
The integration of solar energy is not just an add-on; it’s becoming an intrinsic part of building design and construction. The Florida Building Code itself addresses solar energy systems, with Chapter 14 specifically governing the design, construction, and installation of systems for space heating or cooling, domestic hot water, swimming pool heating, or process heating [3]. Recent updates to the Florida Building Code (8th Edition, 2023) also include detailed provisions for photovoltaic (PV) panels and mounting systems, requiring adherence to specific UL standards for listing and labeling, and addressing wind resistance for rooftop installations [3].
This means that architects, engineers, and contractors are increasingly required to factor solar integration into their plans from the outset. This includes structural considerations for roof-mounted systems, electrical wiring requirements, and even the potential for building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems that serve as roof coverings [3].
Incentives and Support
Florida offers a range of incentives that further encourage solar adoption in construction:
- Federal Solar Tax Credit (Residential Clean Energy Credit): Homeowners can claim a 30% tax credit on the cost of installing new, qualified clean energy property, including solar electric panels and battery storage [5].
- Florida Sales and Property Tax Exemptions: Florida provides a 100% property tax exemption for residential solar renewable energy property, meaning increased home value due to solar won’t result in higher property taxes. Additionally, solar energy systems are exempt from Florida sales and use tax [5].
- Net Metering: Most Florida homeowners with solar panels are eligible for net metering, allowing them to earn credits for excess electricity sent back to the grid at the full retail rate, significantly reducing electricity bills [5].
- Local Utility Rebates and Programs: Several local utilities offer rebates and incentives, such as the Boynton Beach Energy Edge Rebate Program or Jacksonville JEA Battery Incentive Program, further lowering the upfront cost of solar installations [5].
Solar energy is no longer a niche or experimental technology in Florida’s construction industry; it’s a powerful force driving innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. With its abundant sunshine, a supportive regulatory environment, and a growing recognition of its myriad benefits, Florida is well on its way to becoming a true solar superpower. As the construction industry continues to adapt and embrace these advancements, we can expect to see an even brighter, more energy-independent future for the Sunshine State.
Sources:
[1] The Nature Conservancy. (2024, March 11). Florida’s Decarbonized Future. Retrieved from https://www.nature.org/en-us/newsroom/florida-decarbonized-future/
[2] FOX 13 Tampa Bay. (2025, February 25). Tampa business goes solar with more 450 panels; a new trend of the Sunshine State. Retrieved from https://www.fox13news.com/news/tampa-business-goes-solar-more-450-panels-new-trend-sunshine-state
[3] Florida Building Code. (2023). Chapter 14 Solar Systems (8th Edition). Retrieved from https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/FLMC2020P1/chapter-14-solar-systems (Note: This specific link might refer to an older version of the code, but the general principles for solar systems remain in the latest edition). For specific 8th Edition (2023) changes, consult https://www.floridaroof.com/solar-panel-changes-in-8th-edition-florida-building-code and https://www.floridabuilding.org/fbc/publications/Research_2023_2024/FSEC_Residential_2023-FBC-EC_vs_2021-IECC_Stringency_Comparison_Final.pdf.
[4] Duke Energy. (2025, February 21). Duke Energy Florida files plans for four new solar energy sites, adding nearly 300 megawatts of energy to the electric grid. Retrieved from https://news.duke-energy.com/releases/duke-energy-florida-files-plans-for-four-new-solar-energy-sites-adding-nearly-300-megawatts-of-energy-to-the-electric-grid
[5] Palmetto. (2025, April 7). Florida Solar Incentives in 2025: Tax Credits, Net Metering, and More. Retrieved from https://palmetto.com/policy/florida-solar-incentives
John Caravella, Esq
John Caravella Esq., is a construction attorney and formerly practicing project architect at The Law Office of John Caravella, P.C., representing architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, and owners in all phases of contract preparation, litigation, and arbitration across New York and Florida. He also serves as an arbitrator to the American Arbitration Association Construction Industry Panel. Mr. Caravella can be reached by email: [email protected] or (631) 608-1346.
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