10 best solar companies in Austin, Texas
Josephine NesbitContributing Writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Apr. 22, 2024
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Homefront Local uses a unique algorithm to score solar companies based on important factors like user reviews and how popular they are in your area.
High-quality solar panel installation in Austin, Texas requires you to select a solar installer with proper certification, expertise and experience. We've compiled a list of the best solar companies in Austin to help you hire the right installer.
Before hiring an installer, request referrals, vet potential installers and get multiple quotes to find the ideal company for your requirements. You can look for a local solar company in Austin or go with an established national brand.
- Extends 25-year system and labor warranties
- Installs electric vehicle chargers
- Offers strong leasing options
- Extends a 25-year system warranty
- Includes upkeep services for leases
- Provides additional insurance coverage
- Extends 25-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Provides solar panel and battery installation
- Offers comprehensive financing
Although solar panels require a major upfront investment, you can reduce your energy bills over the long run. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), switching to solar energy allows Austin homeowners to save $1,400 on average each year.
Not every solar company has the same offerings. Before scheduling your solar panel installation, weigh different companies' offerings and get quotes from each.
Find the top solar company for you in Austin
Vet Austin solar companies with a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews and comparable customer review platforms. The company should also have a respectable rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
You should read through past customer reviews to gain insight into other homeowners' thoughts about the company. Keep an eye out for frequent negative feedback as a potential red flag.
512 Solar
Services Offered
Lighthouse Solar
Services Offered
Wells Solar
Services Offered
ATX Solar
Services Offered
Longhorn Solar - Austin
Services Offered
Optimum Solar USA
Services Offered
The American Power Company
Services Offered
Austin Discount Solar
Services Offered
Easy Simple Solar
Services Offered
Smart Energy
Services Offered
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Austin?
Austin and the nearby areas get plenty of sunlight, which enables homeowners to benefit from solar energy. Here are the top reasons for switching to solar power:
- Reduce environmental impact: Moving to solar reduces your carbon footprint by preserving fossil fuels that would otherwise be utilized to power your house. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) indicates that generating electricity is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Save on energy bills: Going with solar energy enables you to cut your electricity bills. The power generated by solar panels replaces electricity that would otherwise be bought from utility providers.
- Charge an electric vehicle: Solar energy gives you the ability to charge electric cars at your house. Utilizing your own power is the ideal way to ensure your electric vehicle runs on renewable energy.
Facts about Austin
Monthly Energy Spending Per Capita
Clear Sky Days Per Year
Annual Solar Savings Per kW
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Austin?
Based on the results of our survey carried out in October 2023, the median cost for solar panel installation nationally is $11,743.
The price of solar panel installation varies based on several factors, such as where you live, availability of sunlight, roof orientation, shading, system size and labor. Be prepared to pay more if you select accessories like animal guards, solar trackers or batteries.
Based on statistics from the EIA, NASA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the typical price to install solar panels in Austin is $17,597.
How much can you save by going solar in Austin?
Putting in solar panels requires considerable spending upfront, but you can make those costs back through major reductions in your energy bills down the line.
Money savings in Austin from going solar
Homeowners in Austin who move completely to solar energy can expect to save money. However, it takes time to recover the initial investment, and factors such as rainfall and tree coverage impact the time it takes to see returns on your investment in solar panels.
- Payback period: The average payback period is the time it takes for a solar energy system to recoup its initial cost. The payback period in Austin is around 12 years, according to our calculations, which are based on data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), NASA and the EIA.
- Annual solar savings in Austin: On average, Austin homeowners can save $1,444 per year by adopting solar energy, according to our calculations based on data from the Department of Energy, NASA and the EIA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: After fully switching to solar power, you can expect to save around $21,885 over 25 years, according to our calculations from the EIA and NASA.
Energy savings in Austin from going solar
In addition to monetary savings, moving to solar energy reduces your carbon footprint and environmental impact. We've calculated the approximated CO2 emission reductions you can realize by going solar based on data from NASA and the EPA.
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Austin?
A variety of solar incentives are available to Austin homeowners. Some programs are offered to all Texas residents, though others vary by municipality, utility company and city.
Per the DSIRE, here are the solar incentives available for Texas residents:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Property Tax Incentive Renewable Energy Systems Property Tax Exemption | 100% |
Rebate Program Texas Gas Service - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | 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 |
Rebate Program Austin Energy - Residential Solar PV Rebate Program | $2,500 |
Rebate Program Austin Energy - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Central AC/Heat Pump: $150 - $600 Package Unit AC/Heat Pump: $200 - $550 Mini-Split AC/Heat Pump: $250 - $800 AC Tune-Up: $175, max of 5 systems Pool Pumps: $300 per pump replaced Heat Pump Water Heater: $800 Smart Thermostat: $25/unit, plus $85 for participating in the Power Partner Thermostat smart energy savings program Window Air Conditioners: $50 per unit Weatherization Bonus: Up to $2,400 Solar Screens/Solar Film: $1.00/sq. ft. Attic Insulation to R-38: varies by original R-value Duct Replacement: $3.25/sq. ft. Duct Insulation: $1.00/sq. ft. Duct System Performance Testing: $200 - first system, $100 each additional system/ $75.00 per new return air improvement (max 3 per system) External Combustion Air: $20 each Air Infiltration and Duct Sealing: $0.12/sq. ft. Total External Static Pressure: $175 for first system, $100 for additional Return Air/Supply Grilles: $5 each Improve Supply and/or Return Plenum: $75 each Additional Attic Access: $25 Insulated Box for Pull Down Stairs: $25 Fan Cover: $25 |
Rebate Program Pedernales Electric Cooperative - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Central AC: $250/unit Heat Pump: $250/unit Ground Source Heat Pump: $250/Ton Dual Fuel Heat Pump: $250 |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 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. |
What are common factors to consider before hiring a Austin solar installer?
Before choosing a solar panel installation professional, evaluate these important questions.
What size system do you need?
Your solar panel system's size is influenced by your home's energy consumption and the system's production capacity. Bigger households use more electricity and might require larger solar panel systems. An undersized system might not manage to fully energize your house.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar installation project may be subject to applicable codes and permit requirements by your state. You'll need to obtain the required permits from your local building department, as well as set up an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not every house gets the same level of sunlight. Local tree coverage, rain and harsh weather conditions can limit sunlight. If your home lacks sufficient sunlight, you may need a higher amount of panels with increased wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
A solar battery allows the storage of extra power in solar panel systems. This becomes incredibly helpful when you're trying to prevent power loss under cloudy skies. The extra battery storage could raise the cost of installation.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
There are several solar panel types available, with differences in efficiency, design and life expectancy. These aspects impact not just the cost, but also panel replacement frequency and roof space requirements.
Our methodology for selecting solar companies
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics. Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Go back to top
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