Business Details
7 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Solar Energy Partner in Tampa, FL
Tampa Bay Solar, founded by Navy SEAL veteran Steve Rutherford, has been empowering Florida homeowners and businesses with clean energy solutions since 2019. Our team of certified solar experts specializes in residential and commercial solar panel systems, whole-home battery backups, and solar water heaters. With over 500 successful installations across Central Florida, we combine military precision with technical expertise to deliver energy independence. As a Veteran-owned business, we prioritize hiring veterans and use American-made products to ensure quality and local economic impact.Our 25-year panel warranties and 10-year labor guarantees reflect our confidence in superior craftsmanship. We offer zero-down financing options and guide clients through federal tax credits to maximize savings. From initial energy audits to post-installation support, our in-house team maintains strict quality control while navigating permitting processes efficiently. Our commitment to transparency and customer education ensures clients make informed decisions about their energy future.
Services
Residential Solar Systems
Commercial Solar Systems
Solar Water Heaters
Whole Home Battery Backup
Solar Pool Pumps
Details
- Year established: 2019
Highlights and features
- Veteran-owned business with military-grade precision and ethics
- Over 500 successful solar installations across Central Florida
- Uses premium American-made solar panels and components
- Offers free energy audits with personalized savings projections
- Provides 10-year labor and 25-year panel warranties
What people say
Professional installers
Excellent communication
Significant savings
Prompt repairs
Knowledgeable consultants
Services
Residential Solar Systems
Custom-designed solar panel systems for homeowners that generate clean energy and reduce utility bills. Our American-made panels increase property value while providing 25-year manufacturer warranties. Systems connect to the grid for net metering benefits and can include battery backups for uninterrupted power during outages. Ideal for Florida homeowners seeking energy independence.
Commercial Solar Systems
Tailored solar solutions for businesses that reduce operating costs by 50-90% through rooftop installations. Systems power office equipment, refrigeration units, and industrial machinery while qualifying for 30% federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act. Our experts design systems to maximize energy production for commercial buildings of all sizes across Florida.
Whole Home Battery Backup
Energy storage systems that provide uninterrupted power during grid outages. Compatible with new and existing solar installations, these battery systems store excess solar energy for nighttime use or emergencies. Ideal for Florida businesses and homeowners needing reliable power during hurricane season and grid failures.
Solar Water Heaters
High-efficiency water heating systems that reduce water heating costs by 30% using solar thermal technology. Certified by the Florida Solar Energy Center, these systems include storage tanks for continuous hot water supply. Perfect for residential and commercial applications seeking to eliminate gas or electric water heating expenses.
Solar Pool Pumps
Energy-efficient pool circulation systems powered by solar energy that reduce pool operating costs. Designed for Florida's climate, these systems use photovoltaic panels to power pool filtration equipment while qualifying for state and federal incentives. Ideal for residential and commercial pool owners seeking sustainable solutions.
People
Steve Rutherford
Founder & President
Retired Navy SEAL with 22 years of service and two Master of Science degrees in Applied Physics and National Resource Strategy. Developed electric vehicle technology and led special operations energy initiatives before founding Tampa Bay Solar in 2019 to bring military precision to solar energy solutions.
Ligia Cohen
Consultant
Experienced solar consultant providing personalized energy solutions for residential and commercial clients. Specializes in explaining technical solar concepts and financing options to help clients maximize energy savings and tax incentives.
Matt Pappalardo
Sales Director
Leads sales operations with expertise in solar system design and cost-benefit analysis. Focuses on educating clients about solar ROI and helping them navigate the transition to renewable energy through customized financing solutions.
Sharon Louis
Consultant
Solar energy specialist assisting clients with system selection and permitting processes. Provides detailed explanations of energy audit results and helps homeowners understand long-term savings from solar panel installations.
Tim Michaud
Consultant
Experienced solar consultant guiding clients through the selection of appropriate solar solutions based on energy consumption patterns. Specializes in explaining technical specifications of photovoltaic systems and battery backup options.
Questions
What solar financing options are available?
We offer zero-down financing with monthly payments lower than typical utility bills. Federal tax credits can cover 26-30% of system costs, with additional local incentives available in many Florida counties.
How long does solar installation take?
Most residential installations complete within 3-4 days after permitting. Total timeline from contract to operation averages 6-8 weeks, including county inspections and utility meter upgrades.
Do solar panels damage roofs?
Our mounting systems actually reinforce roof structures. We use Iron Ridge mounts rated for 185 mph winds and provide 10-year warranties covering both panels and roof penetrations.
How do solar systems work at night?
Grid-tied systems automatically draw power from the utility grid at night. Net metering credits excess daytime production, allowing 24/7 power without battery storage requirements.
Can HOAs prevent solar installations?
Florida law prohibits HOAs from restricting solar panels. We have successfully installed systems in 100% of HOA-controlled communities without approval issues.
What maintenance do solar panels require?
Panels require minimal maintenance due to 25-year warranties. Florida's rainfall naturally cleans panels, with occasional professional inspections recommended to ensure optimal performance.
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