Florida Solar For All
The Florida Solar For All (FSFA) program has been allocated $156 million in federal funding through the EPA’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, a key component of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. This funding is aimed at making solar energy more accessible to low- and moderate-income households throughout Florida. The goal is to reduce energy costs and increase energy resilience in underserved communities by offering grants and affordable financing options for residential rooftop solar installations.
Starting in early 2025, this funding will be used to provide solar energy systems for eligible homes, with a specific focus on communities that have historically faced challenges accessing clean energy. In addition to covering the costs of solar installation, the program will include energy efficiency upgrades where necessary, such as insulation or window weatherization, to ensure that homes are well-equipped to maximize energy savings from the solar systems
The FSFA program is being administered by the Solar and Energy Loan Fund (SELF), with the support of partners like Solar United Neighbors (SUN) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC), bringing together expertise in community solar advocacy and environmental policy. Together, these organizations are working to address both energy equity and climate change, providing long-term benefits not only to individual households but also to the broader Florida community by promoting clean energy adoption and reducing carbon emissions.
This historic investment in solar infrastructure aligns with the state's commitment to improving the affordability and sustainability of energy for all its residents, particularly those in economically disadvantaged areas.
Solar and Energy Loan Fund (SELF)
SELF is the leader of the FSFA program and acts as its fiscal agent. As the nation's first and only green nonprofit community development financial institution (CDFI), SELF has been committed to financing climate-resilient property improvements since 2009. Over the years, they have facilitated over 3,400 sustainable upgrades, generating more than $40 million in economic development and leveraging over $100 million in total projects. SELF's mission is to provide low-interest loans and other financial products that help communities become more energy-efficient and climate-resilient
Solar United Neighbors (SUN)
Solar United Neighbors is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping communities transition to solar energy. With extensive experience in organizing community solar programs across the nation, SUN provides homeowners, small businesses, and nonprofits with tools, resources, and guidance to go solar. Their work in Florida has empowered thousands of residents to access solar technology and save on energy costs. Through community solar initiatives, they strengthen local solar economies and advocate for policies that make solar energy more accessible
The Nature Conservancy in Florida (TNC)
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has been a leading environmental nonprofit for over 50 years, working to protect the land and waters that sustain life. In Florida, TNC focuses on preserving natural habitats, advancing science-based solutions to environmental challenges, and advocating for policy changes that improve climate resilience. With a deep commitment to environmental sustainability, TNC plays a vital role in the Florida Solar For All program by contributing their expertise in community engagement and policy, ensuring that the solar initiative benefits both the environment and underserved communities
About Program
The Florida Solar For All (FSFA) program will focus on providing 5-6 kW photovoltaic (PV) solar systems for eligible single-family homes. This system size is typically sufficient to meet the energy needs of a typical household, particularly in lower-income and disadvantaged communities. The program is designed to reduce energy burdens by offering an accessible solution for homeowners to lower their electricity costs through solar energy.
By targeting 5-6 kW systems, the FSFA program ensures that participating homes can generate enough power to reduce dependency on grid electricity, contributing to energy resilience and sustainability. The systems will be sized to balance affordability and effectiveness, maximizing the benefit for each household while aligning with the program's funding structure.
The systems will be installed with a combination of subsidies and low-interest loans, based on household income and repayment ability rather than credit scores, ensuring broad access to solar energy. These 5-6 kW systems will also contribute to Florida's broader efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote clean energy across the state.
Example of a 5.2 kW PV Solar System installed by Solar First
Single-Family Homes
The FSFA program places a strong emphasis on single-family homes, aiming to provide fully subsidized solar energy solutions to homeowners in need. These homes will be prioritized, especially those in disadvantaged communities, as part of the program’s mission to reduce energy burdens and promote clean energy access. Homeowners in these residences will have the opportunity to install rooftop solar panels without upfront costs, contributing to long-term savings on their energy bills.
Multi-Family Homes
For multi-family homes, the FSFA program will evaluate eligibility on a case-by-case basis. While the program does not have a large-scale, one-size-fits-all approach for multi-family properties at this stage, they are open to applications and will assess each project individually to determine its feasibility based on the needs of the households involved and the property's infrastructure.
Eligibility and Subsidy Structure
Households that qualify for the FSFA program will receive hybrid subsidies that blend 30-60% subsidies with low-interest, 20-year loans for the remaining cost of solar installations. This structure ensures that homeowners of various income levels can still benefit from the program's affordable financing options.
Very-low-income households will receive 100% subsidy for the solar installation, removing the financial barriers to solar energy adoption completely.
Other eligible households will receive a combination of subsidies and low-interest loans, which will be determined by their income and ability to repay, rather than by their credit score. This underwriting approach ensures that more families can qualify, regardless of their credit history, as long as they demonstrate the ability to repay the loan.
This flexible and inclusive approach aims to ensure that the FSFA program reaches a broad range of Florida households, providing them with affordable solar energy solutions that will lower their utility costs and support long-term environmental sustainability
As the program rolls out in early 2025, homeowners will have the chance to apply for the available subsidies and financing options through the designated application portals.
Why Choose Solar First?
Solar First is a Florida-licensed solar installation company with over 25 years of expertise in renewable energy consulting, design, installation, and project management. As proud members of the Building Industry Association (BIA) and Florida Solar Energy Industries Association (FlaSEIA), we are deeply committed to delivering top-notch solar solutions. One of our owners, Rick Vaske, is the Director of the Solar Program at Fort Myers Technical College and serves on the Board of the Department of Energy/Solar Ready Vets Program. Solar First works with clients nationwide, providing end-to-end support from feasibility analysis and design through to implementation and management of energy-efficient solutions.
With your approval, we would like to assist you in submitting an application for a 5-6 kW solar energy system that can be entirely funded through the FSFA grant program. We understand this may raise questions or concerns, and we’re here to address them fully:
If approved, the system is 100% covered: All parts, products, installation, engineering, permits, and any additional materials are completely covered by the program.
Workmanship guarantee: As a Florida-licensed solar contractor, Solar First will provide a 1-year workmanship guarantee on all work performed, ensuring the system operates as intended and that your property remains undamaged.
Emergency and hurricane considerations: Please note that this system is designed for energy efficiency and savings, not as a backup power source during emergencies or hurricanes.
Energy savings: The system could offset $100–$130% of your energy costs based on current electrical rates, potentially providing significant savings on your monthly utility bills.
Roof repair flexibility: Should your roof require repairs in the future, Solar First will remove and reinstall the system free of charge, up to one time.
The Products We Use
Mission Solar 395W Panels:
Known for their high efficiency and durability, these panels are designed to deliver optimal performance even in Florida’s challenging climate conditions.
Enphase IQ8+ Microinverters:
Advanced microinverter technology ensures maximum energy production, even in shaded or partially cloudy conditions, providing greater system efficiency and reliability.
IronRidge Mounting Systems:
Robust and weather-resistant, IronRidge mounting systems are engineered to secure your solar panels safely and withstand extreme weather events.
By partnering with industry-leading manufacturers, Solar First ensures every solar installation meets the highest standards for quality and reliability. Our carefully chosen components are designed to work seamlessly together, delivering top-tier performance and long-lasting durability. This commitment to quality means that your solar system is not only optimized for efficiency but also built to endure Florida’s unique challenges, from high temperatures to severe weather conditions.
Investing in premium products reflects our dedication to providing systems that homeowners can depend on for decades. With proven technologies and trusted brands, we deliver solar solutions that maximize energy savings, minimize maintenance, and contribute to a sustainable future. When you choose Solar First, you’re choosing a partner that prioritizes quality, performance, and your peace of mind.