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Best 5 Solar Companies in McKinney, TX

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Written By Max Peterson|Last Updated: April 18, 2024

McKinney homeowners are fortunate to live in ample sunlight, both to bask in and harness as energy. Many are hiring top solar companies to get panels on their roofs. If you're considering going solar, you might be anxious about expensive upfront costs. By collaborating with a professional installer, you'll have both the financial and operational support you need for a successful transition. Discover McKinney's top-rated solar companies and learn key decision-making strategies on this page.

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 McKinney Solar Companies

NXT LEVEL HOMES Logo

NXT LEVEL HOMES

4.5/5
Based on 161 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Cleaning And MaintenanceConsultationBattery StorageFinancing AssistancePanel InstallationPermit AssistanceGrid-Tied Solar SystemOff-Grid Solar Systems

Highlights

  • Free quotes
  • Reliable customer support
  • Clear pricing policy
6600 Chase Oaks Blvd #150, Plano, TX 469-415-7685 nxtlevel.homes
Sky Blue Energy - Solar Installers Logo

Sky Blue Energy - Solar Installers

4.2/5
Based on 19 customer reviews.

Services Offered

ConsultationSkilled RepairsPanel InstallationBattery Storage

Highlights

  • Reliable customer support
  • Free quotes
  • Clear pricing policy
2116 Auburndale Ave, Melissa, TX 888-395-2583 skyblueenergy.com
Sunstra Logo

Sunstra

4.7/5
Based on 29 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Financing AssistancePanel InstallationCleaning And MaintenanceGrid-Tied Solar SystemConsultation

Highlights

  • Informative resources
  • Clear pricing policy
  • Reliable customer support
101 E Park Blvd Suite 600 - #2153, Plano, TX 469-215-1335 sunstra.com
Maverick Solar Services Logo

Maverick Solar Services

4.7/5
Based on 20 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Panel Installation

Highlights

  • Free quotes
  • Informative resources
  • Clear pricing policy
2100 14th St Ste 107, Plano, TX 972-695-5292 mavericksolarservices.com

More Local Solar Companies

Trojan Solar

User Reviews: 4.4/5 

7000 Parkwood Blvd Suite D400
Frisco, TX 75034

Elevation

User Reviews: 4.4/5 

1601 Summit Ave Suite #103
Plano, TX 75074

Longhorn Solar - Plano

User Reviews: 4.5/5 

701 E Plano Pkwy Suite 305
Plano, TX 75074

ZUNA SOLAR

User Reviews: 4.5/5 

5717 Legacy Dr Suite 250
Plano, TX 75024

Inspire Solar

User Reviews: 4.2/5 

101 W Renner Rd #200
Richardson, TX 75082

Solartime USA

User Reviews: 4.6/5 

1758 Firman Dr Suite 100
Richardson, TX 75081

Arvo Solar Dallas-Fort Worth

User Reviews: 4.7/5 

938 Amber Knoll Dr
Rockwall, TX 75087

Good Faith Energy

User Reviews: 5/5 

4122 Billy Mitchell Dr
Addison, TX 75001

Blue Hammer Solar

User Reviews: 4.6/5 

8330 Lyndon B Johnson Fwy Building B Suite 775
Dallas, TX 75243

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

Ranking Methodology

Our team has researched dozens of solar companies near McKinney, concentrating on the following criteria:

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Facts about McKinney
Average Max Temp:76°F
Solar Payback Period:10.6 years
Average Daily Sunlight:62%
Homes Powered by Solar:7,689
Average Annual Energy Bill:$1,340
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 provides several advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

  • Lower energy bills: Sourcing some or all of your own power will cut power costs long-term. Plus, some states provide net metering programs that allow you to sell your unused energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
  • Better energy independence: Solar energy can keep your home powered through blackouts and emergencies, giving you additional security. You can use your solar energy anytime with an optional battery storage system.
  • Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is a highly abundant clean energy source, meaning you can lower or beat your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to McKinney Homeowners?

Texas agencies and electric companies offer numerous solar incentives to help reduce your solar system costs. Here's a breakdown of eligible 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: Rebate Program

Website: support.coserv.com

Incentive Amount:

Rebates tiered based on kW installed

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 McKinney

Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and valuable solar array. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.

Licensing and Training

All solar installers 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 installers can also earn certificates from trade groups and standards organizations. The most prestigious ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in McKinney

Your solar modules' type will impact how much electricity you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. Thin-film panels have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.

If you want to charge an electric car or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By selecting the right components, you can make your panel array more effective and convenient to use. Not all solar companies offer these optional components, so look for a company that installs them if it's crucial for you.

Generally speaking, it costs about $16,650 for a five-kilowatt solar array in McKinney. This table lists more specific costs for different solar panel types and system components in your area.

Solar Panel CostAverage Cost
Solar Monocrystalline$1,206
Solar Polycrystalline$941
Thin-Film$550
Solar Battery$772
Solar Home EV Charger$2,895

Financing Solar Energy in McKinney

Solar contractors use multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar loans, cash payments, power purchase agreements (PPAs) and solar leases. We advise making a cash payment or using a solar loan for the highest return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also have full ownership of your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to reduce your total costs. Solar loans are another solid option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in monthly installments while still benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) enables you to pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. We generally don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the solar system and cannot use solar incentives. Ask each company you're considering about the financing options it offers. A team member can help you determine the most suitable option for your budget.

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

You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, local governments and utilities may have their own rebates and financing plans that could reduce your total cost even more.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in McKinney

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

Most McKinney homeowners spend about $1,340 on energy each year. Your costs could drop by $981.51 for each kilowatt you generate after you pay off a solar array.

How popular is solar energy in McKinney?

Yes, solar energy is readily available in McKinney. A growing number of local homes generate or access solar power on-site or through utility grids, and Texas has about 10261 jobs comprising its solar economy.

Will solar panels improve my McKinney home worth?

Yes, a solar PV system will boost your property value. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, for every dollar you save on energy bills, your home value increases by $20. So, if your panels save you $600 per year on energy costs, your property could appreciate $12,000.

What can I do to assess my home's solar potential?

One common way to determine your home's solar viability is by using PVWatts. This free, powerful tool considers system size, tree cover, panel efficiency, and local weather and topography to determine how much energy your array could generate. However, it's not a substitute for consulting with a solar expert, who can create a full estimate with the most updated data.

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

Today's solar systems are remarkably durable, lasting up to 25 years. Monocrystalline panels and other top-tier models tend to last longer than less expensive models.

What size should my new McKinney solar system be?

The average McKinney solar system size is 7.7 kilowatts (kW). However, your final system size depends on your family's power consumption. Your roof size, panel model, and surrounding shading could also impact your final result. A professional solar company will consider these factors and determine the right system size for your home.

How can I boost my solar array's performance?

To enhance your solar system's performance, you can try the following strategies:
  • optimize the panels' position with your solar installer
  • regularly clean your solar panels
  • upgrade to a more efficient inverter trim or cut down trees in the way of your panels
  • use energy-efficient appliances

How many estimates should I get before making a final solar company decision?

It's smart to obtain three or more estimates before committing to a single solar provider. This lets you evaluate product quality, pricing, warranty options, and customer feedback. It also helps you assess a company's knowledge, reliability and responsiveness, all of which are "green flags".

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

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