Solar Calculator Houston, TX: Is it Worth It?
Est. 25-Year Net Savings
Calculating...
Based on current utility rates.
*Preliminary ROI projection. Actual ROI varies. View breakdown ↓
Est. Break-Even
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*Cash purchase ROI projection. Financing adds interest.
👇 Customize ROI projection: 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 Houston outage protection
Is Solar Worth it in Houston?
Est. Home solar system Size:
0 kW
Est. Total Home solar system 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 4.6 peak sun hours, this level of solar exposure makes energy offset feasible based on production data alone. Source: NREL Maps
🔌 Grid Info: Houston typically falls within the CenterPoint Energy service territory. As a deregulated market, you normally choose a Retail Electric Provider (REP) to facilitate your solar interconnection and credits. (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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💡 Important Cost & Safety Considerations (2026)
- Insurance & Hail: In Houston, adding solar affects dwelling coverage needs. Verify coverage for weather events common in TX.
- 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.
- Buyback Rates: 'Net Metering' policies vary by Retail Electric Provider (REP). Some buy excess power at wholesale rates, others offer credits. Check your plan.
Solar Cost Calculator FAQ for Houston
Is solar worth it in Houston without tax credits?
2026 Outlook: For families in Houston, solar is often sought for grid independence. With volatility in energy prices (approx. $0.149/kWh) and weather events, owning your power source may offer greater long-term stability than renting from the utility.
Incentives typically depend on your tax liability and whether you buy or lease the system. To ensure a conservative estimate, our base figures do not automatically apply these credits, meaning your actual net cost could be lower if eligible.
Incentives typically depend on your tax liability and whether you buy or lease the system. To ensure a conservative estimate, our base figures do not automatically apply these credits, meaning your actual net cost could be lower if eligible.
Can my Homeowners Association (HOA) in Houston 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 Houston?
Adding a home solar system 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 (4.6 hours) to generate estimates. It provides a preliminary ROI projection 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 Houston?
We estimate a cash price between $2.3 and $2.8 per Watt installed in Houston. 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.