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Texas is the fourth sunniest state in America and fertile ground for solar electricity generation. As prices drop and technology becomes more efficient, more and more Texans are switching to solar power, intending to reduce monthly utility bills, shore up emergency power, and improve the environment. Switching to solar is a big step toward building a more sustainable future, but the process can be costly and complicated.
When a homeowner is ready to move to clean solar energy, it pays to partner with a reputable company. Solar energy companies in Texas help their customers navigate system design, installation, incentives, and maintenance. We’ve researched dozens of businesses to identify the top-rated solar companies in Texas. Interested homeowners can read on to learn more about our criteria and why we consider these businesses the best solar companies in Texas.
- BEST OVERALL: SunPower
- RUNNER-UP: ADT Solar
- BEST CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE: Momentum Solar
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Blue Raven Solar
- BEST ENERGY SAVINGS: Elevation
- ALSO CONSIDER: Longhorn Solar
What to Consider When Choosing One of the Best Solar Companies in Texas
For the greatest power-generating results, solar panels should be arrayed where they obtain plentiful direct sunlight. But this element differs depending on the home’s location, any trees in the vicinity, and the panels’ efficiency ratings. Before settling on one of the best solar companies for a solar installation, it’s smart to consider crucial factors impacting both efficiency and cost.
Service Area
Most Texas solar installers do not operate in every ZIP code. Some companies operate regionally or even locally in just a single metropolitan area. While checking into solar installers, homeowners will want to research each company’s service area.
Home Location and Roof Type
Location is critical when installing solar panels. Short winter days in regions in the far northern U.S. may not deliver adequate sunlight to compensate for the cost of having a solar array installed.
Location isn’t limited to the geographic region; it also relates to whether buildings or tall trees will obscure the sun’s rays for a significant part of the day. Another consideration is a home’s roof type. A roof with a slope that faces south is excellent for solar panels, but some homes’ roof structures may not be sound enough to uphold a solar system. The installer might need to alter the roof or install the panels on a detached ground unit instead of on the roof.
Type of Panels
Solar panels all generate electricity, but they do it through different means. The two primary types of solar panels are thermal and photovoltaic, and there are a few more or less common varieties within those categories.
- Photovoltaic: Photovoltaic panels are the most standard types of panels installed today. They consist of solar cells that convert sunlight to electrical power. Homeowners desiring to power many of their home’s energy needs will typically opt for photovoltaic panels.
- Thermal: Solar thermal panels are not as common as photovoltaic ones, but they’re still useful. They incorporate mirrors that reflect and concentrate the sun’s rays to generate electricity. Thermal solar panels are more commonly used for small energy needs, such as powering a solar floodlight.
- Monocrystalline: These panels are black and produced from a single (mono) silicon crystal. Monocrystalline panels are compact and long lasting, but they’re among the costliest solar panel options. They have efficiency ratings of 20 to 25 percent (see “Efficiency and Performance” below) and are considered to be the best solar panels for homes.
- Polycrystalline: Polycrystalline panels are similar to monocrystalline because they’re made from many silicon fragments (hence “poly”) rather than a large silicon crystal. They’re also less expensive than monocrystalline panels. Polycrystalline panels have efficiency ratings from about 15 to 17 percent.
- PERC: This acronym stands for Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell. PERC is a relatively new technology that enhances monocrystalline panels’ efficiency. PERC panels can be up to 5 percent more efficient than typical monocrystalline panels.
- Thin-film: Thin-film panels are not quite as efficient as other types of panels since they do not contain pricey crystalline silicon. Thin-film panels typically range from 6 to 15 percent efficiency depending on the quality of the individual panel.
On-Grid vs. Off-Grid
Homeowners can opt for an off-grid, stand-alone solar array or an on-grid (or grid-tie) array. Both come with a few considerations and benefits.
An off-grid solar system is the prime choice for homeowners who want energy independence. The off-grid system allows the homeowner to generate all their electricity. An off-grid system will continue to operate even if a storm results in a local power outage. Large batteries can store excess energy to supplement electricity when there’s cloud cover. But there is no alternate source of electricity if the off-grid system isn’t generating due to cloudy weather and battery stores are depleted.
Many homeowners opt for an on-grid or grid-tie system because if it’s cloudy, their home can draw power from the utility grid. Homeowners can also usually sell the excess energy back to the utility company (called net metering). But a grid-tied system immediately shuts down if the utility company experiences an outage. This is primarily for safety reasons because it would not be safe for a technician to work on a downed power line if a home solar array sends electricity into the line. Homeowners with grid-tie systems can reduce outages by installing battery storage.
Efficiency and Performance
As manufacturers incorporate better technology, solar panels are becoming more efficient. But how can customers judge whether one panel is better than another? It all comes down to percentages. Most of the solar panels on the market have efficiency ratings of 15 to 20 percent. This means that when the sun’s rays hit the panel, the panel can convert from 15 to 20 percent of those rays into electrical power.
Some high-efficiency solar panels are up to 25 percent efficient. But the highest efficiency available to consumers today is about 22.5 percent for the most part. Science is always working on increasing solar panel efficiency, and research shows future panels may have up to 40 percent efficiency.
Manufacturers vs. Installers
Many solar installers are licensed to install one or more solar panel brands. There are some solar companies that both manufacture and install their own solar panels. The distinction may not be important to some customers, especially customers looking to get good prices on panel installation. However, this distinction often comes into play with regard to the installation company’s guarantee. Solar panel manufacturers in Texas are more likely to stand behind their product and honor guarantees or warranties, which benefits customers. A company that solely installs panels may require the customer to contact the manufacturer directly for any warranty work.
Consultation Process
Many solar panel installers offer a free consultation. The consultation includes evaluating and analyzing a home’s location and position and the amount of direct sunlight it receives. The company will often recommend a specific type of solar panel array as part of the consultation. The installer should be able to provide the customer with an estimate of how much they could save on their current energy bill.
Pricing and Financing
It costs, on average, between $11,000 and $16,000 to have solar panels installed. The price depends on the number of panels and their efficiency ratings, and either the solar company or a private lender may offer financing for a solar system. However, a private lender will typically want a homeowner to take out a second mortgage on their home to secure the loan.
Some homeowners find a reasonable alternative option is leasing solar panels. Solar leasing allows the homeowner to minimize their carbon footprint, and the leasing company owns the panels. Leases can last between 5 and 25 years. However, depending on the lease terms, the customer may not earn much savings on their energy bill. Solar PPAs (power purchase agreements) are similar to leases, but the homeowner sells their excess energy produced back to the electric company.
Permits
A permit is necessary in many communities to have solar panels installed. The permit price varies, but installers often factor that cost into the total installation price. The installer will also pull the permit for the project.
Obtaining a permit lets the local building authority know the homeowner intends to install solar panels. Once the system is in place, the building authority will dispatch an inspector to check the panels, batteries, and wiring before the system is turned on.
Installation
Once the consultation is complete and permits have been obtained, the installer can order panels and other required equipment.
The installation process is an exciting one. The installer will make any roof repairs or modifications necessary to uphold the array. The wiring system is installed, then the panels are mounted and connected. The building authority inspector checks everything out, and it’s time to turn the system on.
Guarantees
A limited 25-year guarantee is standard in the solar panel industry. The guarantee includes fixing the panels or replacing failed components. But customers will want to be cautious because not all warranties are created equal. Some cover only the cost of replacement parts, so the homeowner is responsible for paying repair technicians. Others guarantee certain system features for shorter periods, such as a 25-year warranty on panel performance but a 12.5-year warranty on the inverter.
Rebates and Tax Incentives
A tax credit allows homeowners to deduct a certain percentage of their solar panel expenses from their income tax liability. Systems installed through 2032 are eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit. For example, if the solar panels cost $10,000 and the tax credit was 30 percent, the homeowner could reduce their income tax liability by $3,000.
States and local communities may offer tax incentives. Solar companies and manufacturers may also offer rebates. The solar company installer is usually the best source for up-to-date rebate and tax information.
Customer Support
Investing in a solar array is a costly prospect. If something goes awry, it’s reassuring to know the solar company is there to handle the problem. Solar companies will have a call-in customer service number, and many also have an emergency number for after-hours calls. Many companies will also provide online consultations via chat or email. It’s often the case that the more customer service avenues a company offers, the higher the customer satisfaction.
Our Top Picks
We vetted the top businesses around to find the best solar companies in Texas. Read on to learn more about our picks and why we think they are the best solar power companies in Texas.
Best Overall
SunPower
- Type of panels: Maxeon monocrystalline
- Payment options: Buy, finance, lease
- Guarantee: 25-year complete system warranty
- Customer support: Phone
Pros
- High 22.8 percent efficiency rate
- Cradle to Cradle–certified equipment
- Interactive online design-studio feature
- Sleek design with built-in microinverters
Cons
- Price may be relatively high
- Customer service only available by phone
Why It Made the Cut: SunPower boasts nearly four decades of industry leadership, the most efficient panels on the market, and an outstanding reputation for customer service, making it a standout choice for homeowners looking to make the switch to solar. SunPower claims our top spot as the best solar company in Texas. It presently serves customers nationwide, including those in Texas. SunPower delivers some of the industry’s best products and services, such as Maxeon monocrystalline solar panels, which have an excellent 22.8 percent efficiency rate. And the Maxeon panels are low profile and sleek with built-in microinverters, so homeowners don’t have to sacrifice their home’s curb appeal. They will want to note, however, that SunPower solar panels can be costlier than others on the market. Thanks to the interactive online design studio, SunPower’s complete design process can be done virtually. Customers will want to note that SunPower’s equipment is certified by Cradle to Cradle, indicating that the company maintains a low environmental impact through sustainable, circular production. Current or prospective SunPower customers can contact a support representative via a phone call.
Runner-Up
ADT Solar
- Type of panels: Not specified
- Payment options: Buy, finance, lease
- Guarantee: 25-year power production guarantee
- Customer support: Phone, email
Pros
- Generous 25-year power production guarantee
- 24/7 solar monitoring
- Additional roofing repair services available
Cons
- Solar panel information not readily available
Why It Made the Cut: ADT Solar builds solar systems with top-tier equipment and backs up its work with an industry-leading 25-year power production guarantee, so homeowners know that the company feels confident with its services. ADT acquired Sunpro Solar in 2021, and it serves customers in 21 states, including Texas. The feature of ADT Solar that stands out is its warranty. The company offers an impressive warranty that ensures the solar system will produce at its estimated level for 25 years after purchase. However, it’s not specified which solar panels ADT Solar installs, which could reasonably affect a homeowner’s power production. Fortunately, customer support is available by phone or email to resolve any questions. ADT Solar customers will also like the company’s 24/7 solar monitoring that guarantees a home’s panels are always functioning. The company’s technicians can also repair roofing before or during a solar panel installation. This can smooth the process, meaning that a homeowner doesn’t need to hire an additional contractor.
Best Customer Experience
Momentum Solar
- Type of panels: Monocrystalline (various manufacturers)
- Payment options: Buy, finance, lease, PPA
- Guarantee: 25-year equipment and labor warranty
- Customer support: Phone, email
Pros
- Streamlined “concierge” service offered
- All paperwork and permits handled on behalf of the customer
Cons
- Somewhat limited information available on website
Why It Made the Cut: Momentum Solar offers an individualized client experience with a single point of contact for its customers throughout the sales and construction process, which makes the entire experience easier for homeowners. Momentum Solar has consistently gained a market share in the solar industry since it began operating in 2009. Its individualized sales and service model ensures a single point of contact for each customer from start to finish. Momentum’s approach also helps homeowners take advantage of the full range of regional and local incentive programs to save more money on their solar system installation. The company also takes care of a customer’s paperwork and permits, further lessening stress and burden. There’s not a lot of information readily available on Momentum’s website, but customers can reach out to a representative via phone or email with any pressing questions.
Best Bang for the Buck
Blue Raven Solar
- Type of panels: Monocrystalline (various manufacturers)
- Payment options: Buy, finance
- Guarantee: 25-year manufacturer warranty, 10-year labor warranty
- Customer support: Phone, email
Pros
- Flexible and affordable BluePower Plus+ financing option
- Money-saving Smart Start program available
- Complimentary energy-saving kit
Cons
- Service area restricted to 5 Texas metro areas
- No solar lease or PPA options
- No solar batteries available
Why It Made the Cut: Blue Raven Solar offers a value advantage by installing high-grade solar systems with the full benefits of system ownership totally free for 18 months before the first payment is due, making solar power more accessible to more homeowners. Texas homeowners looking for solar companies in Houston, Arlington, El Paso, Fort Worth, and Plano will want to consider Blue Raven Solar. The company works to maximize homeowners’ access to affordable renewable energy. While no solar lease or PPA (power purchase agreement) option is available, Blue Raven offers a BluePower Plus+ financing program, which lets homeowners get up to 18 months of free solar energy. Blue Raven Solar specializes in affordable, dependable solar panel and inverter installations, and it only installs efficient monocrystalline panels. Presently, battery backups are unavailable through Blue Raven, but they may soon. The Blue Raven Smart Start program also allows customers to pay a reduced monthly price. Plus, customers can receive a free energy-saving kit with a smart thermostat and an LED light package to help them save even more money.
Best Energy Savings
Elevation
- Type of panels: Not specified
- Payment options: Not specified
- Guarantee: 25-year products and labor warranty
- Customer support: Phone, email
Pros
- Maximized energy savings with whole-home efficiency approach
- Innovative energy usage tracking available
Cons
- Solar panel and financing information not readily available
Why It Made the Cut: Elevation evaluates home energy efficiency, installs solar, and provides monitoring services that reduce the customer’s energy costs, making this company an appealing choice to Texas customers. Elevation is a solar company with a whole-home approach. Instead of just selling and installing power generation equipment, it first audits the customer’s home energy efficiency. It delivers solutions to reduce wasted consumption before designing and installing the ideal solar system. The result is lower home power usage, less money spent on solar panels, and lower operating costs. The Curb system then monitors power consumption inside the home and generation at the solar system. It shows where energy is being used and how much is generated in real time to keep users aware of any issues. The company currently serves homeowners in five states. Information on financing and the type of solar panels used isn’t readily available on Elevation’s website, but homeowners can reach out to a customer support representative with any questions.
Also Consider
Longhorn Solar
- Type of panels: REC monocrystalline for residential installations, Q CELLS monocrystalline for commercial installations
- Payment options: Buy, finance (through third party only)
- Guarantee: 25-year labor and performance warranty
- Customer support: Phone, email
Pros
- All paperwork and permits handled on behalf of the customer
- Average employee experience of 7 years
- Additional roofing repair services available
Cons
- Relatively limited financing options
- Service area restricted to 4 Texas metro areas
Why It Made the Cut: Longhorn Solar, a local Texas-based company that’s been in operation for over 30 years, takes a no-pressure sales approach, installs durable and dependable solar equipment, and covers its work with a generous 25-year warranty. Longhorn Solar is a smaller business that installs and monitors high-efficiency solar systems for residential and commercial projects in and around Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio. The company employs experienced solar technicians with an average of 7 years of experience, so solar installation jobs will be done efficiently. Longhorn Solar also handles all of the paperwork for the homeowner, so there’s less stress when it comes to managing the many different facets of a solar installation. This company installs top-quality solar equipment, including REC panels for residential installations, SolarEdge and SMA inverters, Unirac mounting systems, and Tesla Powerwall and LG Resu battery systems. Installations are backed by 25-year labor and performance warranties. Through its network of lender partners, the company offers zero-down financing.
Our Verdict
Switching to solar is an extensive project, so homeowners want to get the most for their money. We recommend hiring experts with a strong track record of excellent customer service and reliable equipment. Our top recommendation, SunPower, brings decades of experience, efficient cost-effective equipment, and strong customer reviews. For the peace of mind that comes with a full guarantee, ADT Solar’s industry-leading warranty program backs up a service-oriented system and quality components.
How We Chose the Best Solar Companies in Texas
Switching to clean solar electricity takes a high level of commitment and no small investment on the part of a property owner. Hundreds of solar installers operate in Texas, so we wanted to make the process easier and less stressful by developing a list of reliable options.
We sorted through the top regional and multistate businesses to find the best solar panel companies in Texas. Our research and ranking criteria favored companies with a record of operational flexibility and transparency. We considered online customer reviews, Better Business Bureau ratings, and trade organization awards to determine which companies have top reputations for client relationships and overall service. Then we worked to confirm the presence of business processes that indicate those favorable ratings would continue.
Switching to home-based solar power begins as a significant up-front expense that ultimately should pay off through reduced utility bills. Considering the initial financial burden, we ensured that the solar companies on our list offer financing options and customer assistance to access available rebates, tax breaks, and other incentive programs.
Before You Work With One of the Best Solar Companies in Texas
Before reaching out to a solar company, customers will want to be sure it can provide what they need. This includes finding out where the company is physically located, where its warehouse is located, and where its install crew is based. If the home base is not within an hour or so of the installation site, customers will want to know how warranty, service, and maintenance issues will be handled. Customers will also want to ensure they’re using the best electric company for solar panels in Texas if they’re participating in a solar buyback program to get the best deal possible.
Homeowners will want to understand the plan before committing, and they’ll want to review the itemized equipment to be installed, a schematic of the installation, and a work timeline. Customers can ask to ensure that the contractor will handle the permitting process and post-installation inspections.
Many commercial solar companies in Texas are sales and marketing businesses that subcontract the installation work. Customers can ask if the installers are employees of the company selling the system. If not, they can find out how subcontractors are vetted and whether they are independently licensed, insured, and trained to install the equipment in the contract.
Cost of Working With One of the Best Solar Companies in Texas
The average cost of solar installation in Texas is $2.75 per watt and between $11,000 and $16,000 for an entire home system. Several factors, in addition to equipment price, contribute to actual costs and savings.
Customers who buy their system outright feel the full cost up front and are responsible for maintenance costs (like hiring one of the best solar panel cleaning services to keep panels functioning at maximum capacity). But paying it off right away normally leads to the lowest total cost and highest potential savings. Financing attracts many buyers as a way to gain the system’s benefits quickly without depleting savings. The trade-off is that financing adds interest and fees that reduce the total savings while providing the benefits of reduced utility bills and access to the financial incentives associated with clean energy.
Leasing is often the least costly way to access clean solar energy. Solar lease customers do not own the equipment in their homes, so they do not qualify for many of the available incentive programs. However, they generally pay a much lower monthly rate for electricity when compared to grid customers, and they avoid the responsibility of maintaining the solar system. Lease customers may also have the option to purchase the system outright when the lease term ends.
The Advantages of Working With One of the Best Solar Companies in Texas
Whether the goal is to reduce the expense of a monthly power bill, stabilize access to reliable power, or shrink the carbon footprint, going solar makes sense in Texas. With hundreds of solar companies to choose from, it pays to find and work with the best.
- Professional design and installation create a seamless transition to clean energy.
- Effective customer service reduces confusion and startup problems and increases access to clean energy incentive programs.
- The best companies offer superior equipment at fair prices to balance efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
FAQs
For those thinking of switching to solar in Texas, there may be lingering questions. Read on for more information.
Q. What is the most reputable solar company in Texas?
We recommend SunPower as the best overall solar company in Texas. It brings nearly 40 years of industry experience, installs the best solar equipment, and boasts a strong reputation for customer service.
Q. Is it worth it to go solar in Texas?
Yes, going solar in Texas is worth it. This part of the country receives ample sunshine year-round to power a home solar system, which more than offsets the system cost over its working lifespan. Going solar in Texas is good for the environment and the household budget.
Q. Does Texas offer a solar tax credit?
Texas does not offer a statewide solar tax credit. However, Texas residents qualify for federal tax incentives on qualifying solar installations and local rebate programs.
Q. Can you get free solar panels in Texas?
Texas does not offer a statewide solar rebate program, but some municipalities in the state do. Program details vary by location.
Q. What is the biggest solar farm in Texas?
Roadrunner Solar Farm in Upton County utilizes over 1.2 million bifacial solar modules to produce 497 megawatts of electricity. It is estimated to have eliminated 785,000 tons of carbon emissions annually.
Sources: EnergySage