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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How does solar energy work?
A. Solar electric systems use photovoltaic (PV) panels to convert sunlight into electricity. The PV panels are typically made of silicon, with wires running through it, and are encased in tempered glass. When sunlight hits the silicon in the panel, electric current is generated and channeled through the embedded wires. These wires send the current to an inverter, which converts the electricity from Direct Current (DC) to Alternating Current (AC) for use in your home. Batteries are often used in solar electric systems to store energy produced by the PV array during the day, and to supply it to electrical loads as needed (during the night and periods of cloudy weather). To see how solar works, click here.

Q. How much will a solar electric system for my home cost?
A. There are several factors that affect the cost of installing a solar electric system for your home. Those factors include (but are not limited to): the size and manufacturer of the system; how will the system be mounted — rooftop, ground mounted, or another type of mounting structure such as a patio pergola; the difficulty of installation; for rooftop systems, the roof height and pitch; the inverter and battery storage equipment.

The cost to install a typical system is $8 – $10 per watt of rated capacity, according to industry statistics. A state-certified solar contractor can give you an estimate for your specific project. A typical residential system is 3 kilowatts and may cost between $24,000 and $30,000.

Q. What is a watt?
A. A watt is a measure of electrical power in electric devices, such as solar electric systems, light bulbs and home appliances. A watt is equal to the rate of current flow (amps) multiplied by the voltage of that flow (volts). One amp of current flowing at a potential of one volt produces one watt of power. The size, or capacity, of solar electric systems is measured in kilowatts (kW), which is 1,000 watts.

Q. How can I find a solar contractor?
A. There are several resources available to find solar equipment, retail providers and certified licensed system installers, including the Florida Solar Energy Industries Association (FLSEIA). PH: 800-426-5899

Q. Can I install the solar equipment myself?
A. Consistent with the State solar energy rebate program, systems must be installed by a licensed contractor. Systems that are not installed by an appropriately licensed contractor (see licensing requirements below) are not eligible for a State or Sun Funds rebate. In addition, the system must be certified as operational by the contractor that installs it and must meet any applicable local building codes. For photovoltaic systems, the contractor must have a valid state certified solar contractor (CV) or electrical license.

Q. Can Sun Funds be used for solar thermal water heating systems or solar thermal swimming pool heating systems?
A. No, Sun Funds are only available for residential solar electric systems (photovoltaic) that qualified for State rebates, while funds are available.

Q. Can I apply to Sun Funds for a rebate for a solar electric system for my business facility?
A. No, Sun Funds are for FPL residential customers installing solar electric systems at their home.

Q. Can I have the rebate paid directly to my contractor?
A. No. Sun Funds rebates will be paid only to FPL residential customers who are the owner of the solar electric system.

Q. May I apply for a Sun Funds rebate for more than one solar electric system ?
A. No, only one rebate will be awarded per qualified applicant.

Q. Can I get Sun Funds money before my system is installed if I have a purchase agreement with an installation contractor?
A. No. Sun Funds will only be paid to qualified applicants AFTER the system is installed, meets all requirements of the State solar energy rebate program, and an application for a State rebate has been accepted by the Florida Energy Office (FEO), as long as Sun Funds are still available.

Q. Who can I contact for additional information on the Florida Solar Energy Incentives Program?
A. For additional information on State solar rebates, please contact the Florida Energy Office at:

Department of Environmental Protection
ATTN: Solar Energy System Incentives Program
2600 Blair Stone Road, MS-21
Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400
Phone: (850) 245-8002
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/energy/energyact/solar.htm

Q. When can I apply for the Sun Funds rebate?
A. This can be done at the same time you apply for the State rebate, however the application must be postmarked no later than 30 days of receiving your State rebate check. You, or your contractor on your behalf, may submit a Sun Funds application at anytime after purchasing a solar electric system. However, you will not qualify for a Sun Funds rebate until we confirm you qualify for a State rebate payment from the Florida Energy Office, and as long as Sun Funds are still available.

Q. What are the qualifications for Sun Funds?
A. Sun Funds will be distributed based on the following qualifications:

• You are an active FPL residential customer.



• You are applying for a rebate on a solar electric system (PV) at a residential address.



• A completed Sun Funds application is received at the Sun Funds Processing Center after the time you purchase your solar electric system – or no later than 30 days of receiving your State rebate check.



• You have had a solar electric system installed at your residence, using a licensed solar contractor.



• You have qualified for a State rebate.



• There are still Sun Funds rebates available. (At this time, there are only Sun Funds available for 100 kW of solar electric systems. When those funds are exhausted, there are no further Sun Funds rebates.)

Q. Where do I mail the application form?
A. Sun Funds application forms may be mailed to:

FPL Sun Funds Processing Center
122 Lenape Trail
Medford Lakes, NJ 08055