Florida Renters: Solar Power Credits and Utility Savings Explained

Many Florida renters are looking for ways to cut their electricity costs. With more homes and apartment complexes installing solar panels, you may wonder if solar power credits could help you save money on your utility bills. This article explains how solar credits work for renters, what rights you have in Florida, and where to find official help if you think you’re missing out on potential savings.

Understanding Solar Power Credits in Florida Rentals

When a property has a solar energy system, it can generate electricity for use on the premises. If the system produces more power than the building uses, the extra electricity might be sent to the public utility grid, earning what's called a net metering credit. In Florida, net metering is regulated by the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC), and the policy can help lower power bills.^[1]

Can Renters Benefit from Solar Credits?

Whether you see savings from solar panels depends on the setup:

• If utilities are included in your rent, your landlord may benefit from lower bills—but you might not see the savings directly.
• If you pay your own electric bill and the utility account is in your name, you may get credits if you live in a unit that receives solar-generated electricity or participates in community solar programs.

Your lease should explain how utilities and energy savings are handled. If it’s unclear, ask your landlord or read the lease carefully for terms related to “utility billing,” “solar credits,” or “renewable energy.”

Florida Laws and Tenant Rights

While there is no Florida law that directly requires landlords to share solar savings with tenants, your landlord cannot bill you separately for solar unless it is agreed upon in your lease. All billing arrangements must comply with the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[2]

Community Solar for Renters

Some utility companies, like Florida Power & Light, offer community solar subscriptions. With these programs, renters can sign up and receive bill credits for a share of solar energy, even if their building does not have panels.

How Do Solar Credits Affect Utility Billing?

This depends on the billing setup in your apartment:

• Master-metered buildings: The landlord usually receives the electric bill. Any solar credits lower the building's total electricity costs, but savings may or may not be passed on to renters.
• Individual metering: If each unit has its own meter and you pay the electric bill, you may see credits on your bill if your unit participates in solar programs.
• Community solar: Renters can enroll directly with the utility, which applies credits to your account.

Always check your utility bill. If you believe you should be receiving credits but do not see them, contact your utility provider first and then reach out to the Florida Public Service Commission if needed.

What Can You Do if You Suspect Billing Errors or Unfair Utility Costs?

If you think you are being charged incorrectly or missing solar credits, try these steps:

• Review your lease to check what was agreed about utilities.
• Contact your landlord or property manager for clarification.
• Speak with your utility company about solar credits or billing issues.
• If issues persist, you can file an official complaint through the Florida Public Service Commission Consumer Assistance website.

Relevant Forms and Tribunals for Florida Renters

• Utility Complaint Form (PSC/CCA 10-2013): Use this if you have a utility billing dispute, missing solar credits, or service concerns. Download from the PSC Official Complaint Page and fill out the details describing your issue. Submit it by mail, fax, or email as described on the form.
• The Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) is the main tribunal handling utility billing concerns. Access it here: Florida Public Service Commission.

While the PSC resolves utility-related complaints, broader landlord–tenant disputes are generally overseen by the Florida State Courts.

FAQ: Florida Renters and Solar Power Credits

1. Can my landlord keep all the savings from solar panels?
   Unless stated differently in your lease, your landlord can keep any savings if utilities are included in your rent or if your unit is not separately metered. Always check your lease.
2. How do I enroll in a community solar program as a renter?
   Contact your local utility to ask about community solar options. You can usually sign up directly if available in your area.
3. Where do I file a complaint about missing solar credits on my bill?
   Contact your utility provider first. If it’s unresolved, use the PSC Complaint Form.
4. Is my landlord required to install solar panels or share credits?
   No Florida law requires landlords to install solar for rentals or to pass on bill credits unless your lease says so.
5. What law protects Florida renters regarding utility billing?
   Florida’s main tenant law is the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Key Takeaways for Florida Renters

• Savings from solar power often depend on how utilities are billed in your lease.
• Community solar programs can offer credits to renters who enroll directly.
• Disputes about solar credits or utility bills can be reported to the Florida PSC with the correct form.

Understanding your lease and utility billing arrangement is your best tool for making the most of solar energy as a Florida renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida Public Service Commission Consumer Assistance — for utility billing and service complaints.
• PSC Utility Complaint Form (Form PSC/CCA 10-2013) — file if you are missing solar credits or have unresolved billing issues.
• Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act — read your rights under Florida law.
• Florida Power & Light Community Solar Program — learn about enrolling in solar energy programs.
• For legal help, contact your local legal aid office or the Florida Bar’s Tenant Resource Guide.

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1. Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) - Net Metering
2. Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 83, Florida Statutes)

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