The Power of the Sun: Why a Solar Roofing System Is a Smart Move for Florida Homes

The Power of the Sun: Why a Solar Roofing System Is a Smart Move for Florida Homes

Florida is famous for its beaches, palm trees, and year-round sunshine.  That same sunshine is also one of the state’s most valuable natural resources.  With more than 230 sunny days a year, we are uniquely positioned in Florida to take full advantage of residential solar roofing systems.

A solar roofing system isn’t just a good idea, it’s becoming one of the smartest investments a homeowner can make.  Thanks to lower equipment costs, better technology, and strong government support, more families are turning their rooftops into clean energy powerhouses.

Why Florida Is Ideal for Solar Energy

The Sunshine State lives up to its name.  According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), Florida ranked among the top three states for total solar electricity generation in 2023, producing over 14,000 thousand megawatt-hours from utility-scale facilities alone EIA-Florida Profile.  That figure doesn’t even include thousands of homes now generating their own electricity from solar panels.

With high solar potential, moderate year-round temperatures, and rising energy costs, Florida homeowners are reaping big benefits from rooftop solar.

How a Solar Roofing System Works

A solar roofing system includes photovoltaic (PV) panels that convert sunlight into electricity. This electricity can be used immediately to power your home, stored in a battery system for later, or sent back into the grid through net metering.  In Florida, utilities are required to credit homeowners for any excess energy they produce, helping offset future bills Florida PSC – Net Metering.

Over time, your system can produce enough power to significantly reduce, or even eliminate, your electricity bills.

Savings That Add Up Over Time

The financial return on a solar roofing system is one of the biggest motivators for homeowners.  Electricity costs are rising across the U.S., and Florida is no exception.  The average monthly electric bill in Florida during summer months is around $175–$250 according to EIA data EIA – Electricity Sales & Price.  That’s over $2,000 a year.

Installing solar can lock in your energy costs and protect you from rate hikes for the next 25 years or more.  Many systems pay for themselves in just 7 to 10 years. Beyond that, you’re enjoying almost free electricity.

Big Incentives Make It Even Easier

If you install a solar energy system on your home, you’re eligible for a 30% federal tax credit through the Residential Clean Energy Credit.  This covers not just the panels, but installation and associated equipment costs Energy.gov – Federal Tax Credit.

Florida adds even more savings:

Combined, these incentives can save you thousands right from the start.

 

A Boost in Home Value

Beyond monthly savings, solar roofing systems can increase your home’s resale value. A study from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Lab found that homes with solar sold for about $15,000 more than similar homes without solar LBNL – Selling the Sun.

Solar is seen as a modern, energy-efficient upgrade, similar to a kitchen remodel or new windows, but with built-in financial returns.

 

Built for the Future

As more utilities shift toward renewable energy, having your own solar system puts you ahead of the curve. It means less reliance on the grid, lower carbon emissions, and a step toward sustainability. Plus, newer systems are sleek, low-profile, and integrate with modern roofing materials, making them as stylish as they are efficient.

 

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking to save money, reduce your carbon footprint, or just take control of your home’s energy use, a solar roofing system makes sense—especially in Florida. With smart policy, generous tax credits, and nearly year-round sunshine, the path to solar has never been more accessible.

At Stonebridge Roofing, Energy & Exteriors, we proudly offer the GAF Timberline Solar™ roofing system, the first nailable solar shingle designed to be part of your roof, not just installed on top of it.

  • Streamlined Design: Timberline Solar™ integrates directly with your roof deck for a sleek, low-profile finish that blends form and function.
  • Durable & American-Made: Engineered for strength, performance, and lasting beauty—built in the USA with industry-leading warranties.

As the future of energy moves toward clean, renewable sources, homeowners who make the switch today are not only investing in their own financial future, they’re helping build a better tomorrow.

4 Roof Maintenance Habits to Get Into This Year

4 Roof Maintenance Habits to Get Into This Year

Spring won’t be due until a couple of months from now, but it’s never too early to start planning your upcoming roof maintenance. Here are some good roof maintenance habits to start this year.

1. Make Roofing Inspections Part of Your Regular Home Maintenance
Visual inspections complement the scheduled maintenance performed by your roofing contractors and can be done without climbing onto your roof. On a clear day, take a pair of binoculars, and inspect the roofing surface for signs of damage, including missing flashing and aging asphalt shingles. Call your roofing contractor for repairs in case you find such problems.

2. Trim the Trees in Your Yard
If you have trees on your property, maintaining a clearance between the roofing surface and the outermost branches has many benefits. It helps prevent scratches on the roofing surface. It helps reduce leaves and needles getting into the gutters, and it helps avoid damage to the roof that’s usually caused by falling branches. Roofing companies like us recommend keeping a clearance of about 10 feet. An arborist can help you trim the branches without harming the tree.

3. Clean the Gutters 
Many people consider their gutters as a separate system, but they are very much a part of the roofing system. Clogged gutters can cause damage to the roof. Gutters generally require cleaning twice a year. You can choose to do this yourself as part of your house maintenance routing, or you can hire a professional. Gutter protection systems can help reduce gutter maintenance requirements and are worth the investment.

4. Stick to Your Maintenance Routine
Roof maintenance is only effective if you stick to your routine. Fortunately, it’s not something you need to do every day. Set a reminder at the beginning of spring and autumn. Clean the gutters, inspect the roof, and call for roofing assistance when needed.

Stonebridge Roofing, Waterproofing, and Exteriors is your leading provider of roof replacement and installation services. Give us a call at (904) 262-6636. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.