Everyone in Texas can benefit from turning their home into a solar home. Even people in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, known for their lack of sunshine, can benefit from solar panels. It just takes one hour of midday summer sun to equal the amount of one year’s electricity demand in the U.S.
Solar panels can be expensive, so what can you do if you can’t afford to purchase solar panels? Here are a few options to help you in your quest to create a solar home.
Community Solar
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Community solar is also known as “shared solar,” “roofless solar,” or “solar gardens.” According to the Department of Energy, about half of the households in the U.S. can’t put systems on their roof. This may be due to living in a rental, not having enough space on their top for solar panels, or because they can’t afford it. Investing in community solar can help you get around those roadblocks.
Shared solar divides the cost among all participants, so multiple houses benefit from one solar array, usually off-site. This way, you can fit the price of a solar home into your budget. There are two ways to invest in community solar. Subscription-based shared solar lets you purchase a set amount of renewable energy production per month. You are charged a solar rate for that fixed “block” of renewable energy. Anything over that fixed amount will be charged at the standard rate. With ownership based shared solar, you purchase solar panels or a portion of the solar system upfront. Your bill will be the month’s usage minus your portion’s production.
Solarize Program
A Solarize program is a group of local homeowners and businesses negotiating with an installer for reduced rates. This type of bulk purchasing makes the process easier and lowers installation costs. To find out if a group exists in your area, check out solarizetexas.org.
Solar Lease
Another option if you cannot purchase your solar panels right away is a solar lease. Someone else owns the solar equipment, but you pay to use the system. This option usually consists of lower upfront costs with fixed payments over a set amount of time.
If you are ineligible for the state or federal tax credits and don’t want the responsibility of maintaining the system yourself, this might be a good choice for you. The good thing about this option is you can still take advantage of net metering by selling excess energy back to the utility company.
Power Purchase Agreement
Similar to a solar lease, another party owns the solar system, but you get to use the electricity generated by the solar panels. Usually, a developer pays for the design and installation at little to no cost to the homeowner. Then the developer sells the electricity to the homeowner at a fixed rate lower than the public utility’s rate.
Unfortunately, in this option, the developer, not the homeowner, gets to take advantage of the tax credits. The developer is also responsible for the upkeep of the system for the power purchase agreement, typically for 10-25 years. At the end of the contract term, the homeowner has the option of removing the system, buying the system, or extending the agreement.
Increase Savings
Before converting to a solar home, you should first do a few things that will bring you additional savings. A home energy audit can let you know other areas of your home that are wasting energy. You can weatherize your home and switch to more energy-efficient lights and appliances. By doing these things first, you may reduce the size of the solar system needed to power your home, which will increase your overall savings.
HOA Restrictions on Solar Panels
Going solar requires a certain degree of planning, and consideration of HOA restrictions for solar panels is certainly a part of it. Once you’ve decided on the solar panels youyou wille, the power output tha expect to have, your rebates, and financing options, you’re left to gain approval from your homeowner’s association.
Sometimes dealing with your HOA can be a headache. When it comes to solar panels, however, you have clear legal guidelines on what restrictions your HOA can place on your solar panel project in Texas. The law is on your side. According to House Bill 362, signed into law in 2011, the law forbids HOAs from prohibiting solar energy installations unless certain circumstances occur.
What Restrictions Are Allowed by Law?
While the law is on the side of people looking to go solar, there are a few common-sense restrictions the HOA can place on these projects. The legislation states that you cannot install a solar device if it:
- Poses a threat to public safety or health
- Violates a law
- Is located in an area familiar to HOA members or on property owned or maintained by the HOA
- Voids material warranties
- It is a ground-mounted system in the homeowner’s fenced yard or patio and rises above the surrounding fence line
Additional restrictions affect roof-mounted solar panels. Your solar panels must not extend beyond the roofline and must be parallel to the roofline and conform to the roof’s slope. The wiring and bracketing must be silver, bronze, or black.
Before You Go Forward
So you’ve passed all of the above requirements, but there’s still one hurdle you must give. The legislation states that a solar project has to have written approval from the HOA before being installed. Permission may be denied if the HOA finds that your solar energy device will create a condition that interferes with other people’s “use and enjoyment of the land.” Getting your neighbors to give their approval in writing will help you prove this isn’t the case.
According to legislation, your HOA can designate where your system is placed. For example, your HOA may require the roof-mounted solar system to be set elsewhere if it can be visible from the street. The only way to overcome this restriction is to prove that the designated area negatively impacts performance. Suggest an alternative place that would increase energy production by more than 10%. You must use modeling tools from The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to prove your argument. One possible tool to use is their PVWatts calculator.
Senate Bill 1626 was signed into law in 2015 to close the loophole that enabled developers to prohibit homeowners from installing solar panels while the subdivision was in the development phase. Sometimes this could take years, and the bill restricts that to developments with less than 51 planned residential units. Unfortunately, developers still have the right to ban a system if the control has not yet been transferred to the HOA.
Things to Consider Before Getting Home Solar Panels
Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular as the renewable energy of choice. Solar panels are beneficial in saving us money and helping to take care of our planet. But every person’s situation is different. So how do you know if home solar panels are good for you? Here are a few things to consider when deciding whether to go solar.
Home Energy Efficiency
The first thing to consider before buying solar panels is whether or not your home is as energy efficient as it can be. Installing solar panels alone will not reap the most savings on your electric bill. If the rest of your house has air leaks or is not insulated well, you will still be wasting energy. Contact a professional for a home energy audit to see if there are additional ways to increase your savings.
Cost of Installation
Thanks to improvements in technology and financing, the cost of solar panels might be more affordable than you think. There are many zero-down options, government incentives, and rebates to take advantage of that will decrease your costs.
What Options Are Available For Financing?
Besides saving up and paying cash, there are a few other ways to pay for your home solar panels. You can apply for a solar loan, and some loans require little or no money down. Many installers also have financing available, which makes it easy. With purchasing, you are responsible for the maintenance of your panels, but you can also take advantage of the tax rebates available because the system is yours.
Another way to get panels on your house is to contact your utility company to see if they offer a lease or Power Purchase Agreement. This is a bit like renting the equipment. You have the benefit of solar but none of the responsibilities because you don’t own the system. There is typically no money down to get started, but you won’t be able to take advantage of any tax credits.
How Much Solar Power Can I Expect?
The amount of solar power generated depends on how much sun your panels get. Many variables determine this. Every home and situation is different, just like every person. The weather in your region, the angle and orientation of your roof, how many panels you have, and how much shade your roof gets will help determine the amount of solar power you can expect. A solar expert can help you discover the answer to all of these questions.
What Type of Panels Should I Use?
There are a few different types of panels and many manufacturers to choose from. Many think that monocrystalline panels are the best type but are also the most expensive. Getting the best home solar panels for your situation and location will be determined by a few factors. What is your budget? How much dirt, snow, or shade will your panels get? The best thing is to contact a professional to help you decide.
Building Permits/HOA Restrictions
Make sure to check the building and electrical codes for your area. Your homeowner’s association may also have restrictions or rules that will affect where and what you install. Working with and getting permission from your HOA may take some time and affect the installation process, so this should be one of the first steps.
When Will I See Savings on My Electric Bill?
Some financing options will start saving you money right away. Zero-down loans and leases will immediately decrease your power bill. With other options, such as paying cash for your system, you will yield more significant savings in the long run. For most customers, though, the savings start on day one and increase over time. You can increase your savings by selling electricity to the power company if your system is connected to the grid.
Hiring An Installation Company
Make sure to get a few bids from reputable companies. Some companies only install home solar panels on certain roofing materials. Confirm that the trained professional you hire works on your type of roof.
A good, professional solar panel installation company can help you decide the best home plan.
Proposing Your Plan
When preparing your case for the HOA, it’s best to have printed legislation and an open mind to compromise. Ensure to reinforce the positive benefits of having solar homes in the neighborhood. According to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, homes equipped with a typical photovoltaic system sold for about $15,000 more than those without. Increased home prices are usually beneficial for the whole neighborhood. Solar homes also help to decrease the neighborhood’s carbon footprint.
In most cases, people will not be obstructionists to be obstructionists. Most restrictions are in place to maintain property value and the neighborhood’s aesthetic appeal. Being sensitive to that goal will go a long way in persuading them to approve your solar energy system. You can also enlist the help of solar power professionals when making a case for your HOA. If it does not get approved and you feel you are right, consult an attorney before taking any legal action.
Best Solar Energy Companies in Houston
Solar Companies in Houston, TX: Best Installers in 2022
www.energysage.com/local-data/solar-companies/tx/montgomery-county/houston
Sunpro Solar Houston, TX 89 Reviews Write a review Get a Quote How we determine the best solar companies in Houston, TX At EnergySage, we care about connecting solar shoppers to high-quality solar companies. As such, any solar installers we list above are active on the EnergySage Marketplace in Houston, TX, and pre-screened by our team.
Best solar companies in Houston, TX 2022
www.solarreviews.com/solar-companies/texas/houston
Sunpower by Freedom Solar Power 4.67 (219) Houston, TX 1420 mi Avg cost $14,753 + Compare Our experience with Freedom Solar has been nothing short of exceptional from beginning to end. Before meeting with our sales rep Devin, we had met with seven other solar company reps and were unhappy with any of them or the company they represented.
11 Best Solar Companies in Houston, TX
www.ecowatch.com/solar/best-companies/tx/houston
11 Best Solar Companies in Houston, TX (Apr 2022 Review) We analyzed over 1500 solar companies in the nation and have selected the top 11 in Houston based on: Customer review scores, Solar installers near you, Company policies and services offered, Accreditations and certifications, By EcoWatch Local Advisors Updated 4/15/2022
Best 30 Solar Energy Companies in Houston, TX with Reviews
www.yellowpages.com/houston-tx/solar-energy-companies
3302 Canal St. Houston, TX 77003. CLOSED NOW. From Business: In 2015, as solar employment overtook fossil fuel nationwide, RisingSun Solar entered the scene. Keith Murphy grew frustrated by the sheer number of pushy…. 17. Tres Energy Brokerage. Solar Energy Equipment & Systems-Dealers.
Solar Energy & Panel Installation Company in Houston, TX
www.dynamicslr.com/solar-energy-houston-tx
Reliant Energy is the primary utility company in Houston. The electricity supplier offers net metering for solar-powered homes. Therefore, you can supply solar power to the utility company when your panels produce excess. In low solar energy months like December, you can use Reliant Energy electricity at no cost by claiming your credits.
Solar Energy Houston TX – The Most Trusted Solar Energy
houstonsolarpanelinstallation.com
RV Solar Panel Home Movers LICENSED Certified and insured APPROVED Screened and vetted 5 STAR RATED Locally recommended LOCAL Operating near you Customer satisfaction is our main priority, and we achieve it by providing you with top-quality and affordable services. YOUR DATA IS SAFE WITH HOUSTON, TX, SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATION. Call Us Now! 832-371-9848
Solar Energy & Panel Installation Company in Houston, TX
www.awakesolar.com
Awake Solar named one of the Fastest Growing Companies in Houston Company news October 25, 2021, Top 100 Fastest Growing Company – AWAKE SOLAR We are excited to announce that for the 3rd year in a row, we have been recognized as one of Houston Business Journal’s Top 100 fastest-growing private companies!
Solar Panels in Houston, TX: 2022 Cost and Companies
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As of April 2022, Houston, TX’s average solar panel cost is $2.72/W. Given a solar panel system size of 5 kilowatts (kW), an average solar installation in Houston, TX ranges in cost from $11,560 to $15,640, with the average gross price for solar in Houston, TX coming in at $13,600.
Solar Buyback Electricity Plans – Texas Net Metering
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Solar Buyback Programs in The Woodlands. Some areas of The Woodlands, just north of Houston, are in the Centerpoint electricity market (deregulated). Other areas of the Woodlands are in the Entergy electricity delivery market. If Entergy serves your home, you can find net metering information for The Woodlands on their website.
Texas Solar Buyback Plans – Texas Power Guide
www.texaspowerguide.com/solar-buyback-plans-texas
TDU: As your local Transmission and Distribution Utility, Centerpoint charges $4.39/mo + 3.9416 ¢/kWh to maintain the lines that deliver electricity to and from your homes. Retailer: The Retail Electricity Provider (REP) you choose resells your electricity and bills for delivery on behalf of your TDU. Plan: The plan you select sets the monthly …
The Leader In Houston Solar Energy Companies
esdsolar.com/the-leader-in-Houston-solar-power-companies
Houston solar energy companies like ESD Solar are specialists in providing the best services for installing and maintaining solar systems. They can offer a wide range of solar products that can be installed in your homes. Solar power is becoming increasingly popular and should be considered an essential backup electricity source.
15 Renewable Energy Companies In Houston To Know
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Here’s a look at 15 renewable energy companies in Houston harnessing the power of nature to fuel a growing world. Cleantech Companies in Houston to Know Chariot Energy ENGIE North America Sunnova Energy Quidnet Energy ConnectGEN Zilkha Biomass Energy Green Mountain Energy Company Sensytec Chariot Energy Founded: 2019
Sources:
https://energy.gov/energysaver/benefits-residential-solar-electricity
https://energy.gov/energysaver/buying-and-making-electricity/using-solar-electricity-home
https://energy.gov/energysaver/planning-home-solar-electric-system
http://txses.org/community-solar-right-sized-solar-for-everyone/
https://www.seia.org/research-resources/solar-power-purchase-agreements
