We may be compensated if you purchase through links on our website. Our Reviews Team is committed to delivering honest, objective, and independent reviews on home products and services. More

Best 3 Solar Companies in Abilene, TX

Get matched with a top local pro
Join the 10,601 people who have received a free, no-obligation quote in the last 30 days
  1. Home
  2. Local Pros
  3. Solar
  4. TX
  5. Abilene
Written By Max Peterson|Last Updated: April 18, 2024

Abilene homeowners are purposeful about protecting the environment and living sustainably. That's why many people are purchasing panels from the best solar installers for their homes. With all the options to choose from in this concrete jungle, you might feel overwhelmed searching for an excellent company. On this page, we'll showcase Abilene's top solar companies and offer insightful advice for your solar journey.

Best High-Efficiency System
4.8
  • Builds custom, high-efficiency solar systems suited to each home
  • Extensive coverage area throughout the country
  • Offers energy storage and EV charger add-ons
Most Reputable
4.4
  • Offers high-efficiency panels and storage options
  • Provides unique in-house financing options
  • Recognized as one of the most reputable solar companies
Best Solar Panel Leasing
4.4
  • Provides system monitoring
  • Offers diverse financing options for various budgets
  • Provides EV and solar battery solutions

Top Abilene Solar Companies

West Texas Solar Logo

West Texas Solar

4.6/5
Based on 33 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Panel InstallationBattery StorageFinancing AssistanceOff-Grid Solar Systems

Highlights

  • Reliable customer support
  • Free quotes
  • Informative resources
4074 E Overland Trail, Abilene, TX 325-244-1917 west-texas-solar.com
Nivo Solar Logo

Nivo Solar

4.2/5
Based on 16 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Financing AssistanceConsultationPanel Installation

Highlights

  • Informative resources
  • Reliable customer support
  • Free quotes
2122 N Chadbourne St, San Angelo, TX 325-261-9586 mynivohome.com

Ranking Methodology

We analyzed dozens of Abilene solar providers, using the following criteria to determine the top-notch:

Get Your Solar Project Quote Today

Get matched with a top local pro

Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!

Facts about Abilene
Average Max Temp:78°F
Solar Payback Period:10.6 years
Average Daily Sunlight:66%
Homes Powered by Solar:4,592
Average Annual Energy Bill:$1,741
Solar Power per Capita Percentile:48.0%

Expert Tips By

This Old House empowers homeowners with the knowledge and tools they need to tackle various projects and navigate the complexities of homeownership.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy has several advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

  • Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is a highly abundant clean energy source, meaning you can minimize or conquer your home's dependence on "traditional" sources.
  • Lowered energy bills: You can dodge the expensive cost of grid-tied power by creating some electricity right where you use it. Plus, many states provide net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back to help pay for your energy bill.
  • Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with battery backups and storage systems function through blackouts and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on the power grid for your safety and comfort.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Abilene Homeowners?

The state of Texas offers a variety of solar incentives to help cut your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of relevant solar programs where you live.

Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive

Website: comptroller.texas.gov

Incentive Amount:

100%

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: texasgasservice.com

Incentive Amount:

Free Equipment Program: Free appliance installation and weatherization services
Home Improvement (includes attic insulation, duct sealing, duct insulation, duct replacement, high-efficiency gas furnace, and Wi-Fi thermostat: Up to $1000
Solar Water Heater With Natural Gas Backup: $750
Tankless or Super High-efficiency Water Heater: $650
Furnace: $675
Furnace Tune-Up: $40
Natural Gas Dryer with moisture sensor: $225
Natural Gas Dryer Stub: $300

Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit

Website: ecowatch.com

Incentive Amount:

30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Abilene

The purchase price and performance of solar panels often hinge on which company installed them. Consider all of these aspects in your contractor search.

Licensing and Training

All solar energy companies in Texas must have a state electrical contractors' license from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners regulates plumbing regulations and licensing standards for solar thermal installers. Solar providers can also obtain accreditations from standards organizations and trade groups. The top ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Abilene

The type of solar panels you select decides how much electricity you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels work with a tried-and-true mechanism and cost less, but produce less power. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.

If you'd like to charge an electric car or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By selecting the right components, you can make your system more effective and convenient to use. Not every solar provider includes these add-ons, so look for a company that sells them if it's a priority for you.

Generally speaking, it will cost about $16,650 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Abilene. This table shows more specific pricing information for different solar panel types and system components in your area.

Solar Panel CostAverage Cost
Solar Monocrystalline$1,082
Solar Polycrystalline$844
Thin-Film$493
Solar Battery$692
Solar Home EV Charger$2,596

Financing Solar Energy in Abilene

Choosing the ideal financing option will impact your overall solar system cost and possible savings. Common payment options include power purchase agreements, leases, loans, and cash payments. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most affordable choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the second most effective option. As with a home or auto loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for money-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a fluctuating rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in certain circumstances. We advise working with a provider that offers multiple financing options. Speak with each agent about what's available, and obtain more than one estimate for the best odds of staying within your financial plan.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Abilene.

The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal solar tax credit on total system costs, so long as you purchase it before 2032. City and state governments and utilities might also offer their own financing programs, incentives, and rebates that could save you more money.

Solar System CapacityEstimated Payback period
1 kW2.1 years
2 kW4.2 years
5 kW10.6 years
10 kW21.2 years

Ready to Get a Quote on Your Solar Project?

Get matched with a top local pro

Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!

Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Abilene

How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?

Most Abilene homeowners spend about $1,741 on energy each year. Your costs could drop by $1,189.09 for each kilowatt you generate after you pay off a solar array.

How widespread is solar energy in Abilene?

Yes, solar energy is gaining popularity in Abilene. Some homes already benefit from solar power on-site or through utility grids, and they're backed by a state solar economy with 10261 jobs and counting.

Should I anticipate a property value increase after installing solar panels?

Yes, new solar systems lead to higher property values according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL.) Homeowners could project a $20 property value increase for each dollar they save on energy. Therefore, $600 in energy savings could boost your property value by $12,000.

How long is a Abilene solar panel's average lifespan?

Today's solar panels are impressively durable, lasting up to 25 years. Monocrystalline options and other high-end models tend to work longer than cheaper models.

How do I care for my new solar system?

To preserve your solar system's performance, inspections and cleanings every six months are usually enough. In dry or dusty seasons, your panels might need cleanings every one to two months. Your technician can recommend a maintenance schedule. Its team could also do the cleaning for you.

What's the average solar system size in Abilene?

The average Abilene solar system size is 7.2 kilowatts (kW). However, your final system size depends on your family's electricity usage. Your panel model, surrounding shading, and roof size could also impact your final result. A professional solar installer will consider these factors and determine the right system size for your home.

What is "net metering," and how does it work?

Most utilities and states run net metering programs, and some mandate homeowners to join. Once you sign up, you can obtain a check or bill credit for any surplus electricity you generate and send to the grid. Generally, power companies compensate solar homeowners at a wholesale or "avoided-cost" rate.

What are the signs I shouldn't use a particular solar company for my job?

While many online reviews are positive, even the rated solar companies might have complaints. You should know these early warning signs for the best odds of an exemplary job:
  • Aggressive sales pitch
  • Dodging questions about credentials and training, warranties, cost and references
  • Limited or no customization
  • Rushing through the site assessment
  • Limited online information

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.

Sources