Staff Reports
Floridians who want solar panels on their rooftop but are skittish about the cost will soon have an option: Sunrun.
The solar-as-a-service biz is coming to the Sunshine State this summer with plans allowing customers to start generating their own electricity for as little as $0 upfront.
And thanks to the company’s home battery, “Brightbox,” that power can be used rain or shine — a convenient option during hurricane season, no doubt, and much cleaner and less noisy than your typical backup generator.
“Freedom is a value Americans hold dear. In offering Floridians solar-as-a-service, households in the Sunshine State are given the freedom to make, control, and store their own energy,” said Sunrun CEO Lynn Jurich. “Unfortunately, too many Floridians have experienced firsthand the effects of extreme weather and power outages.
“Home solar and batteries provide peace of mind and backup power when disaster strikes, keeping food fresh and the lights on.
“Affordable and resilient, home solar also contributes to a healthier environment for households and communities across the state. Home solar is already playing a major role in America’s future energy system, and Sunrun is thrilled to lead the industry as Florida embraces this technology.”
The company is rolling out its service to Central Florida and Tampa Bay residents first — if it says TECO, Duke or OUC on your bill, you’re in luck — with plans to expand service to the rest of the state shortly.
Lawmakers from the region heralded the company’s arrival, with Orlando Sen. Linda Stewart saying the company “will give Central Florida residents greater access clean energy choices, lower energy costs, and continued momentum for local job growth in our state’s renewable energy market. This is the Sunshine State and Floridians should be able to take full advantage of an abundant, emissions-free energy source that contributes to a healthier community while remaining affordable.”
St. Pete Sen. Jeff Brandes added, “As an advocate for consumer choice, I am excited to see new options for Floridians that will make solar more affordable and accessible to residents across the state. With our population projected to grow by five million people by 2030, the time for Floridians to invest in energy diversity is now.”
Those interested in the service can check out the available plans on Sunrun’s website, and those in the initial service area ready to make the plunge can give the company a call at 1-888-GoSolar.
