environmental

Interconnection-Net Metering

As an extension of our Renewable Energy program, Tampa Electric will provide interconnection with net metering to a renewable energy system installed at your home or business. Renewable generating sources can include a solar panel system (also referred to as a photovoltaic or PV system), a wind-powered system, biomass, or other renewable sources as defined by Florida Statutes 366.91(2) and 336.92(2). After you complete a certified installation, Tampa Electric will install, own and maintain metering equipment used to measure excess kilowatt-hours of electricity produced by your system. With net metering, excess electricity will be delivered to Tampa Electric’s grid, and in return, you will receive a full credit on your electric bill for that electricity.

Learn more from the Florida Public Service Commission’s Rule 25-6.065.

Getting started is easy – just follow these steps:

Complete and submit an application.
Complete an interconnection agreement based on the rating of your renewable generating system, and provide the following:
- Tier 1 interconnection agreement for systems 10kW or less:
  - No application fee.
  - Proof of insurance recommended.
  - Provide a copy of the manufacturer’s installation, operation and maintenance instructions.
  - A manual disconnect switch of visible load break type must be installed adjacent to meter, prior to inspection (Tampa Electric will reimburse customer for installation on systems 10 kW or less).
  - Proof of inspection and approval by local code authority.
- Tier 2 interconnection agreement for systems greater than 10kW to 100kW:
  - Application fee: $250.
  - Proof of insurance not less than $1,000,000 general liability (see condition #9).
  - Provide a copy of the manufacturer’s installation, operation and maintenance instructions.
  - A manual disconnect switch of visible load break type must be installed adjacent to meter prior to inspection.
  - Proof of inspection and approval by local code authority.
- Tier 3 interconnection agreement for systems greater than 100kW to 2MW:
  - Application fee: $500.
  - Proof of insurance not less than $2,000,000 general liability (see condition #9).
  - Provide a copy of the manufacturer’s installation, operation and maintenance instructions.
  - A manual disconnect switch of visible load break type must be installed adjacent to meter, prior to inspection.
  - Proof of inspection and approval by local code authority.
  - May require interconnection study (see condition #11).
Mail your completed application, interconnection agreement and other required documentation to:

Attn: Renewable Energy Program, Plaza 5
Tampa Electric
P.O. Box 111
Tampa, FL 33601-0111

Upon receipt of required documentation, an inspection of your equipment will be scheduled by a Tampa Electric representative to ensure proper interconnection. After written notification is received from Tampa Electric, your traditional meter will be replaced with a bi-directional meter and you can begin to operate your system.

To speak with a Tampa Electric representative regarding interconnection and net metering, call 813-228-4848.

More about installing your own solar panel system

Several resources are available to learn more about the costs to install and maintain a solar panel system. Currently, there are federal and state incentives that can help offset costs.

Find Solar (general information)
Florida Solar Energy Center
Florida Solar Energy Industry Association
U.S. Department of Energy (federal incentives)
Florida Department of Environmental Protection (state incentives)