Solar With SECO Energy: Why Self-Consumption Matters
How SECO Energy credits your solar in 2026, the fees to expect, and why SECO systems are sized for daytime use.
On this page
SECO Energy is a member-owned cooperative, so it sets its own solar rules. SECO uses net billing: you buy power at the regular residential rate and SECO credits what you export at its wholesale cost of power. The gap between the two is why SECO systems are designed around daytime use.
Quick answer: SECO credits exported solar at its wholesale power cost, a base of 9.5¢ per kWh adjusted each month. The power you buy costs 11.94¢ per kWh for the first 1,000 kWh and 14.79¢ above that, plus the same monthly adjustment. Credits post to your account in dollars. Unlike FPL, Duke and Tampa Electric, SECO charges an application fee even for small systems.
How SECO credits your solar
- Solar you use right away saves the full residential rate.
- Solar you export is credited at SECO’s base cost of power, 9.5¢ per kWh, plus or minus the monthly power cost adjustment.
- Net credits show as dollars on your account and apply only to that meter.
SECO’s tariff does not describe a yearly cash payout, so we treat extra credit as something to avoid rather than bank on.
Why daytime use matters with SECO
Each exported kWh earns about 2.4¢ to 5.3¢ less than a kWh you use yourself. On a whole year of exports that adds up. The best SECO systems:
- Cover the home’s daytime load first.
- Shift pool pumps, laundry, dishwashers and EV charging into sunny hours.
- Avoid extra panels that would mostly export.
- Add a battery only when backup or evening use justifies the cost.
What you still pay
- The customer charge, $1.30 a day (about $39.50 a month).
- Taxes and the monthly power cost adjustment.
- Any power you use beyond what your panels make.
SECO has no separate monthly fee for solar.
Interconnection fees and steps
| Tier | System size (AC) | SECO fee | Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 10 kW or less (about 11.76 kW DC) | $500 | None required |
| Tier 2 | Over 10 kW to 100 kW | $750 | $1M |
| Tier 3 | Over 100 kW to 1 MW | $1,000 | $2M |
- We apply online. SECO reviews the design and bills the fee.
- We permit and install, including a disconnect within 5 feet of the meter.
- SECO reviews photos and documents in about 5 to 7 business days.
- You sign the interconnection agreement and get permission to operate.
Batteries with SECO
SECO has no battery rebate. A battery helps most when you want backup power, or when you export a lot at midday and use a lot in the evening. See our Florida solar battery guide.
Frequently asked questions
Does SECO have net metering?
SECO uses net billing: imports at the residential rate, exports credited at its wholesale power cost.
Does SECO pay out extra credits?
Credits post to your account in dollars. SECO’s tariff does not describe a yearly cash payout.
Is there a fee for a small home system?
Yes. SECO charges $500 for Tier 1 (10 kW AC or less, about 11.76 kW of DC panels). FPL, Duke and Tampa Electric charge nothing at that size.
Should I add panels to cover my nighttime use?
Usually not. Those extra panels mostly export at the lower wholesale credit.
Is Sunstorm Energy part of SECO?
No. Sunstorm Energy is an independent Orlando company and is not affiliated with SECO Energy.
Sources
Important information
Utility rules and rates change. We checked the facts on this page on October 8, 2026, and we confirm your utility’s current rules before we design your system. Savings and backup time depend on your home and usage and are not guaranteed.