How Does Solar Work With TECO (Tampa Electric)?
Short answer: TECO customers follow a similar process to other Florida utility customers — local permitting plus a separate interconnection approval from Tampa Electric before your system can be legally turned on.
Quick answer: If TECO (Tampa Electric) is your utility, your installation requires their interconnection approval alongside your local building permit. Once approved, exported solar power is generally credited under their net metering program.
The TECO-specific steps in your project
Your installer submits an interconnection application to TECO as part of your project, which is separate from your local building department’s permit approval. This step confirms your system meets TECO’s technical and safety requirements for connecting to their grid.
As with any utility, specific requirements and timelines can change, so it’s worth confirming current details with your installer or TECO directly as part of your proposal.
What to expect with billing and metering
Once your system is approved and activated, TECO typically configures metering to track both the power you draw from the grid and the power your system exports, with your bill reflecting the net difference under their net metering program.
This coordination with TECO is handled as part of a turnkey installation, so you’re not managing separate utility applications on your own.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need TECO’s approval to install solar?
Yes. Alongside your local building permit, your installer submits a separate interconnection application to TECO, which must be approved before your system can be legally connected and activated.
How long does TECO interconnection approval typically take?
Timelines can vary based on current volume and your specific system, so it’s best to ask your installer for a current estimate as part of your project timeline.
Will TECO install a new meter for my solar system?
Typically yes, TECO configures metering capable of tracking both the electricity you draw from the grid and what your system exports, consistent with their net metering program.
Does my installer handle the TECO paperwork for me?
In most cases yes, a qualified installer manages the interconnection application and coordinates with TECO as part of a turnkey installation.
Can I still go solar if TECO is my utility?
Yes. TECO customers regularly go solar, and the process simply includes TECO’s interconnection approval as an additional step alongside standard local permitting.
Related guides
- How solar permitting and inspection works in Florida
- How does net metering work in Florida?
- Home solar, battery and EV charging in Florida
- Solar systems
- Battery storage
- Florida solar by city
Figures on this page are typical industry averages for planning purposes and assume Florida’s 14.5¢/kWh average residential rate and 5.5 peak-sun hours per day. Your actual numbers will differ based on your utility, roof, and system — request a free evaluation for figures specific to your home.