Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple advantages. Let's look at a few of them.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems can keep your home functioning through emergencies and blackouts, giving you additional security. You can use your solar energy anytime with an optional battery storage system.
- Reduced energy costs: Producing some or all of your own power will cut power costs long-term. Plus, some states provide net metering programs that enable you to sell your unused energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power lowers your dependence on conventional, less environmentally-friendly sources.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Dallas Homeowners?
Governments and power companies often reward homeowners for adopting solar. Here are some of the rebates, tax credits or other programs you could qualify for.
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Website: comptroller.texas.govIncentive Amount:
100%
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: texasgasservice.comIncentive 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: Rebate Program
Website: support.coserv.comIncentive Amount:
Rebates tiered based on kW installed
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit
Website: ecowatch.comIncentive 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 Dallas
Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and cost-efficient solar energy system. Consider each of these factors in your company search.
Licensing and Training
All solar contractors 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. Look for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar industry's most respected trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.
Cost of Solar Panels in Dallas
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels offer the best energy production but cost more than other options and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.
You can also add electric car (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can boost your solar system's performance. Not every solar contractor provides these add-ons, so look for a company that sells them if it's crucial for you.
Generally speaking, it costs about $16,650 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Dallas. This table shows more specific costs for different solar panel types and system components in your area.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,206 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $941 |
| Thin-Film | $550 |
| Solar Battery | $772 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,895 |
Financing Solar Energy in Dallas
Choosing the best financing solution will impact your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include cash payments, leases, loans, and power purchase agreements. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand a large up-front sum, but they save you from paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Like a car or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly fee to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in certain circumstances. We recommend working with an installer that offers multiple financing options. Ask each salesperson 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 Dallas.
You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar power systems until the year 2032. Municipal and state governments and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and unique financing solutions that could save you more.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 2.1 years |
| 2 kW | 4.2 years |
| 5 kW | 10.6 years |
| 10 kW | 21.2 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Dallas
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy easily accessible in Dallas?
Should I anticipate a property value increase after switching to solar energy?
How can I check my home's solar suitability?
How long is a Dallas solar panel's average lifespan?
How do I care for my new solar system?
How are traditional solar loans and PPAs different?
In contrast, solar loans can come from the government, installer, local banks and specialty lenders. You'll need to pass a credit check to qualify for most of them. While the upfront costs are more expensive, and you'll be responsible for upkeep, you'll also have total ownership and can apply for many more financial rewards.
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