Solar Calculator El Refugio, TX: Is it Worth It?
Est. 25-Year Net Savings
Calculating...
Based on current utility rates.
*Preliminary cost estimate. Actual ROI varies. View breakdown ↓
Est. Break-Even
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*Cash purchase cost estimate. Financing adds interest.
👇 Customize Cost estimate: Adjust sliders to match your home.
(Avg. TX Rate - Adjust to match your bill)
Low (2%)
3.0%
High (6%)
Cash rebates (e.g. Utility/Oncor/CenterPoint)
Enter % value if eligible for tax credits or other reductions.
Add 13.5kWh Battery Backup?
Est. $12k-$15k • Popular for El Refugio outage protection
Projected Savings & ROI Analysis
Est. Solar panel installation Size:
0 kW
Est. Total Solar panel installation Cost (Cash):
$0
Proj. 25-Year Savings:
$0
📈 Potential Home Value Impact*:
+$0
*Based on avg. 4.1% resale premium (Zillow Research). Market conditions vary; we recommend consulting a local realtor for a specific valuation.
✅ With an estimated average of 5.2 peak sun hours, this level of solar exposure makes energy offset feasible based on production data alone. Source: NREL Maps
🔌 Grid Info: The local grid is generally operated by AEP Texas. Note that transmission and distribution charges (TDU fees) in this area can be slightly higher, which often improves the relative ROI of solar offset. (Service territories vary; verify provider on your utility bill).
⚡ Standard residential rates average $0.149/kWh. Adjust the slider above to match your exact bill.
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💡 Solar Financial Considerations in TX (2026)
- Insurance & Hail: In El Refugio, adding solar affects dwelling coverage needs. Verify coverage for weather events common in TX.
- Buyback Rates: 'Net Metering' policies vary by Retail Electric Provider (REP). Some buy excess power at wholesale rates, others offer credits. Check your plan.
- Outage Protection: Standard solar systems shut down during blackouts for safety. Adding a battery is required to maintain power for essential appliances during grid outages.
- Incentives: While federal and local rebates vary by provider (e.g., Oncor/Centerpoint), they can significantly reduce net cost if applicable.
Solar Cost Calculator FAQ for El Refugio
Is solar worth it in El Refugio without tax credits?
Market Context: Beyond monthly savings, the solar conversation in El Refugio often factors in potential property value. Texas Tax Code (§11.27) allows residents to seek a property tax exemption on the added value (typically requires filing Form 50-123), positioning solar as a potential home equity asset.
Even if one excludes potential tax credits from the calculation, solar is often considered to lock in energy costs, provided your specific roof conditions (shade, angle) allow for efficient production.
Even if one excludes potential tax credits from the calculation, solar is often considered to lock in energy costs, provided your specific roof conditions (shade, angle) allow for efficient production.
Can my Homeowners Association (HOA) in El Refugio stop me from installing solar?
Texas Property Code § 202.010 limits the ability of associations to enforce blanket bans on solar energy devices. However, they retain rights to regulate placement for safety or aesthetic reasons (e.g., typically regarding roofline extension). Homeowners should review their specific deed restrictions, as exceptions exist.
Will solar panels increase my home insurance in El Refugio?
Adding a solar panel installation increases the replacement value of the property. Consequently, coverage requirements typically change to protect the equipment against perils like hail or wind. We strongly advise contacting your insurance provider to verify coverage specifics and premium adjustments prior to installation.
How accurate is this solar cost calculator?
This tool utilizes 2026 legislative frameworks and local sun data (5.2 hours) to generate estimates. It provides a preliminary cost estimate for informational purposes, not a binding financial offer. Utility rates and tax laws are subject to change; always consult a tax professional.
What is the average price per Watt in El Refugio?
We estimate a cash price between $2.6 and $3.1 per Watt installed in El Refugio. Final pricing varies by equipment choice (panels/inverters) and installer labor rates.
*Preliminary estimate for informational purposes only. Based on cash purchase price. Financing options typically increase total cost by 20-30% due to dealer fees.
Calculations include estimated 2-6% annual rise in energy costs & standard panel aging. We do not guarantee specific savings. Independent verification recommended.
Tax Credit Notice: Federal tax credits (e.g. 30% ITC) are subject to eligibility. This tool defaults to 0% to provide a prudent baseline.
Utility Notice: Buyback rates and Net Metering policies are subject to change by providers (e.g., Oncor, CenterPoint) without notice. Savings calculated based on current rate structures.