Solar
Where the Sun Shines
In a city that enjoys 361 days of sunshine each year, solar energy makes sense. The City is committed to the increased usage and production of solar energy, both for municipal operations and the community, in order to help promote a clean, sustainable energy source, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel dependency, and improve community resilience.
Solar and Energy Loan Fund
The Solar and Energy Loan Fund (SELF) is a nonprofit organization that provides loans, project management, and a list of approved contractors for home improvement projects to improve energy efficiency, water conservation, and storm preparedness in residential homes. Low-interest loans are available for all Florida homeowner applicants.
SELF focuses on empowering women, veterans, and low- and moderate-income homeowners who may have had trouble getting loans from other sources. Loan applicants will work with SELF staff to choose the project that will have the most impact on lowering utility bills or improving quality of life.
SELF loans can:
- Reduce the cost of electricity and water bills
- Help residents prepare for storms and harsh Florida weather
- Improve residential homes and resident quality of life
- Stimulate the local economy with sustainable, green-geared jobs
- Empower minority-, veteran-, and women-owned businesses in the St. Pete area
- Improve credit worth and future financial stability for applicants
SELF Loan Requirements
There is no minimum or maximum income requirement for applicants, and staff will work with each applicant to determine if they have the monthly income needed for a given project loan. There is no mandate that loan applicants occupy the home, making this loan source available to owners living outside of their home or to residential landlords.
SELF Loan Differentiators
- Loan terms vary for each homeowner and each project.
- 5-9.5% interest rates
- $1,000-$10,000 projects are typical
- Homeowners save 2-80% on their utility bills
Projects for a SELF Loan
- Hurricane-resistant door, window, and shutter installation
- Roof replacement, solar panel-ready when applicable
- Sewer lateral line rehabilitation
- Solar water heaters and electric panels
- More inclusive projects
Apply
Homeowners and contractors can apply online:
Apply as a Homeowner Apply as a Contractor
Contact
Contact the SELF representative, Rob Perry at 727-315-3223 or email robp@solarenergyloanfund.org. Visit solarenergyloanfund.org for more information.
Solar Co-Ops
Solar United Neighbors (SUN) is a nonprofit that expands access to rooftop solar by educating St. Pete residents about solar power, organizing group solar installations known as solar co-ops, and helping residents go solar on their own. SUN provides unbiased, installer-neutral support through each stage of the process of going solar. Their experienced team ensures residents understand how solar works, how it can be financed, and how it can be installed on a private home or business.
Co-ops take advantage of a group’s bulk-purchasing power to get discounted pricing and a quality installation. Co-op members choose an installer on behalf of the entire group through an open and competitive bidding process. The selected installer provides everyone in the group with a personalized proposal for their consideration.
SUN's Go Solar services are available year-round. Experts at SUN's solar Help Desk give members one-on-one assistance every step of the way and members are able to personalize their schedules for installation and other milestones.
Solar United Neighbors' resources are available at no cost or obligation.
Sign Up
There is no cost or obligation when signing up for the co-op.