In what some will consider being a bold move, South Miami, Florida is mandating that all new homes have solar panels. But what some call bold others will surely see as a reduction in their right to choose. So when South Miami mandates solar panels on new residential construction, what exactly do they mean?
And more importantly, what does it mean for the rest of the country?
South Miami Mandates Solar Panels: What’s Required
The new law covers both new houses and some remodeling jobs. For every 1000 square feet of roof under sunlight, you’ll need 175 square feet of solar panels. Alternatively, you can install 2.75 kw per 1000 square feet of living space, whichever is less.
If you’re remodeling your home, it’s a matter of percentages. If you extend your overall square footage or replace more than 75% of the existing structure, you fall under the new regulation.
South Miami Mandates Solar Panels: What They Said
South Miami mayor and Florida International University Biology Professor, Philip Stoddard, is behind the push to make this into law. But the inspiration came from a 16-year old high school student last year. Mr. Stoddard currently runs an electric bill around $10 per month. He also drives an electric car. Here’s what he had to say:
“Solar reduces the cost of home ownership, it makes houses sell faster, it returns more to a builder, it makes local jobs, and most importantly, it reduces carbon emissions today to help our children and grandchildren have a better future tomorrow.”
– Philip Stoddard, South Miami Mayor
Our Take
I’m all for solar power along with the cost savings and environmental benefits that come with it. Where I personally have an issue is the fact that the choice is being taken away from the homeowner and contractor.
But what’s the cost?
According to energysage.com, solar averages roughly $3.16 per watt. So that 1800 square foot house that now requires a 5 kw solar system will cost the homeowner an additional $15,800 before tax credits. Tax credits will bring it down under $12,000, but you still have to pony up the initial cost or borrow it.
I live in Central Florida and my electric bill runs $100 – $150 over the course of the year in a similar size house. So with a yearly bill in the $1500 range, it will take ten years to offset the cost of those panels, not to mention the interest on my mortgage. 11 years if I’m still paying $10 a month in electric. Of course, some areas have higher electric rates than others.
The Problem with Precedents
South Miami isn’t the first community to mandate solar panels. San Fransisco started the trend back in 2016.
The problem with setting this precedent opens the gates to mandate all kinds of things for the homeowner in Florida, not just solar panels. Where does it stop? Will we be able to start making entire cities deed restricted communities?
Look, I respect Mr. Stoddard’s opinion on solar power and applaud his personal financial investment in it. But should his opinion and those who agree with him have the right to mandate it on everyone?
Sadly, only one city commissioner, Josh Liebman, dissented in the 4-1 vote, citing that it should be the homeowner’s choice.
What do you think? Has the local government gone too far? Should this kind of regulation expand in areas where there’s enough sunlight to warrant the cost? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter!
