It can take weeks to obtain the proper permits and contracts for solar panel installation
Tampa officials are expressing concern over potential increases in residents’ electric bills following the removal of federal support for solar programs. Mayor Jane Castor highlighted that the loss of these incentives could exacerbate rising energy costs, particularly during periods of high demand like the recent summer heatwaves.
“As TECO, Duke and FP&L ask for higher rate increases and your electric bills go up, part of the reason is because of the big ugly bill, and taking away the tax credits you were enjoying for cleaner, cheaper energy,” Castor stated, emphasizing the connection between federal solar incentives and consumer electricity costs.
Steve Rutherford (pictured), the CEO of Tampa Bay Solar called the change ‘a bit of a funeral in the industry’
The sentiment is echoed by industry leaders. Steve Rutherford, CEO of Tampa Bay Solar, described the shift as “a bit of a funeral in the industry,” indicating the important impact of the policy change on solar businesses and adoption rates.
With or without a tax credit, Americans may save hundreds of dollars a year after installing solar energy. File photo above
Despite the
