How Florida’s Net Metering Policy Affects Your Solar Savings in 2026
If you’re thinking about going solar in Florida, one of the biggest financial benefits you should understand is net metering. It’s a simple concept that can dramatically reduce your electricity bill — and in some months, bring it close to zero.
Here’s how net metering works in Florida and what it means for your wallet in 2026.
What Is Net Metering?
Net metering is a billing arrangement between you and your electric utility company. When your solar panels produce more electricity than your home uses — which happens frequently during sunny Florida afternoons — the excess energy flows back to the power grid.
Instead of wasting that extra power, your utility gives you a credit on your bill for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) you send back. Then at night or on cloudy days, when your panels aren’t producing enough, you draw electricity from the grid and use those credits to offset the cost.
Think of it like a bank account for electricity. You deposit energy during the day and withdraw it when you need it.
How Does Net Metering Work in Florida?
Florida’s net metering rules are set by each utility company, but the general structure is consistent statewide. Here’s what you need to know:
- Full retail credit: Most Florida utilities, including FPL (Florida Power & Light), Duke Energy, and TECO, credit you at the full retail rate for excess energy.
- Monthly rollover: Unused credits roll over to the next month.
- Annual true-up: At the end of your billing year, any remaining credits may be settled at a lower avoided-cost rate.
- System size limits: Residential systems must generally be under 2 MW, which is far more than any home would need.
How Much Can You Actually Save?
The average Florida homeowner uses about 1,100 kWh per month. A properly sized solar system can offset 80–100% of that usage. With net metering, here’s what a typical savings scenario looks like:
- Monthly electric bill before solar: $180–$250
- Monthly bill after solar with net metering: $10–$30 (just the base utility fee)
- Annual savings: $2,000–$3,000+
Over the 25+ year lifespan of your solar panels, that adds up to $50,000–$75,000 in savings — and that’s before factoring in rising electricity rates.
Will Net Metering Change in Florida?
Net metering policies have been debated in several states, and Florida is no exception. In 2022, a bill that would have reduced net metering credits was vetoed by the governor. As of 2026, full retail-rate net metering remains available for new solar installations.
However, utility companies continue to push for changes. The best strategy is to lock in net metering now while the current policy is still in effect. Most agreements grandfather existing solar customers if policies change in the future.
Tips to Maximize Your Net Metering Benefits
- Size your system correctly. A system that matches your annual usage gives you the best return.
- Use energy wisely. Run heavy appliances during peak solar hours to use your own power directly.
- Monitor your production. Most solar systems come with an app that shows real-time production and consumption.
- Combine with the federal tax credit. The 30% federal solar tax credit is still available in 2026. Paired with net metering, your payback period can be as short as 5–7 years.
Ready to Start Saving?
Net metering is one of the strongest financial incentives for going solar in Florida — but it won’t last forever. The sooner you install, the sooner you start banking those credits.
👉 Get a free solar evaluation from Direct Solar Point and find out exactly how much you could save with net metering in your area.
Direct Solar Point provides honest, stress-free solar solutions for homeowners and small businesses throughout Florida. We help you understand your options, maximize your incentives, and make the switch with confidence.
