How To Get Free Solar Panels Installed in Texas
Updated December 4, 2023
If you are a homeowner in Texas, there is a good chance that you qualify for a free solar panel installation for your home or business! This guide will help you find out if you qualify and how to get started with solar.
Step 1: Review Your Options
There are several programs that offer free solar panels and installations to Texas residents. Your options depend on a number of factors such as where you live, the type of energy system you need, and your income status. Based on these factors, you may also qualify for even more financial benefits like rebates and tax credits. The following are some of the most popular and beneficial programs currently available in Texas…
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Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
The most common path to "free" solar is a Power Purchase Agreement directly between you and a state-licensed solar energy company. Under a "PPA", the solar company absorbs the full cost of the solar panel equipment and installation for you.
The solar company is technically the owner of the equipment, however, they are responsible for providing you with electricity produced from your home for a guaranteed fixed rate (unlike the unpredictable rising costs of traditional utilities). They are also responsible for any continued maintenance or repairs the solar system may require.
This can be a great option if you don’t want to buy or simply can’t afford buying the solar panels outright. Even though the homeowner isn’t purchasing the actual solar system, they still enjoy the benefits of solar energy and save money on their electricity bills.
Texas State Solar Programs
Texas does not have a statewide rebate program, however, many local governments and utility companies offer their own solar incentives and programs, each with unique eligibility requirements. There’s also a statewide property tax exemption for residential and commercial renewable energy systems that can significantly offset the cost of going solar.
Considering how specific each program is to the details of your home, we strongly suggest you speak with a local solar expert to review all of your best options.
Additional Financial Benefits
In addition to these programs, there are many financial benefits for homeowners in Texas who switch to solar energy. Some of the biggest incentives and benefits are:
Federal Tax Credit: Formerly known as the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), this program was extended in 2022 and renamed the Residential Clean Energy Credit. Homeowners who install solar can claim a massive federal tax credit worth 30% of the gross system cost (including panels, related equipment, wiring, installation, permits, and fees). That means that if the gross system cost is $20,000, your federal tax credit would be a whopping $6,000!
Solar Buyback Programs: Net metering is a buyback program that pays you credits for any excess energy your solar panels produce and send back to the grid. You can then apply those credits towards future energy bills. While Texas does not have a statewide net metering policy, there are many local utility providers with solar buyback plans such as Austin Energy.
Since net metering programs in Texas are managed by different electric companies, technical requirements and compensation rates vary.
Multiple Tax Exemptions: Homeowners with solar can receive a property tax exemption for the value of their system. This allows homeowners to increase their property values without increasing their taxes. The state also applies a Sales Tax Exemption to the purchase of the system, so residents won't have to pay the 6.25% Texas state sales tax. So if your solar energy system costs $20,000 total, you’ll save an additional $1,325 off taxes!
Find out if you qualify for solar savings programs!
Do I Qualify?
Please enter a zip code
Step 2: Find Out if Your Home Qualifies
Depending on where you live, your home may qualify for several different solar savings or free install programs, each with unique advantages. We strongly recommended you speak with a local solar expert regarding your options prior to installation. If you begin an installation without applying for the right programs, you may lose out on massive savings!
Step 3: Get a State-Licensed Installation
Working with a state-licensed installer is the best way to ensure your solar system is installed safely, securely, and most importantly, legally. Setting up a cutting-edge solar system and connecting it with your utility company’s grid is no simple DIY project. Be sure only to evaluate options provided from licensed and insured solar panel installers.
Contact our local Texas solar experts and we’ll walk you through the whole process, from qualification to installation!
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Find out if you qualify for solar savings programs!
Do I Qualify?
Please enter a zip code
