Are you tired of rising electricity costs in Dallas? Do you want to reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a greener future? Installing solar panels might be the perfect solution for you. In 2024, solar energy is more accessible and affordable than ever before in Dallas. With abundant sunshine, supportive policies, and attractive incentives, now is the ideal time to make the switch to clean, renewable energy.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about going solar in Dallas. We’ll cover the current state of solar in the city, costs and savings potential, available incentives, top solar companies, and practical tips for optimizing your solar setup. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision and start harnessing the power of the sun.
The State of Solar in Dallas
Dallas is a prime location for solar energy. The city ranks among the top U.S. cities for solar potential, thanks to its abundant sunshine. On average, Dallas receives around 2,800 sunlight hours per year, significantly higher than many other parts of the country. This ample sunlight translates to greater electricity production from solar panels, making the investment even more worthwhile.
In recent years, solar panel costs in Dallas have fallen dramatically. As of 2024, the average price per watt is approximately $2.70, a significant drop from previous years. This decrease in costs, combined with supportive state and local policies, has fueled rapid growth in both residential and commercial solar adoption across the city.
Solar Panel Costs & Savings
So, how much can you expect to pay for a solar panel system in Dallas? The average cost for a 5kW system is around $12,780 before incentives. However, after applying the 30% federal tax credit, the net cost drops to $8,946. Keep in mind that these are average figures, and your actual costs may vary depending on factors like your home’s energy needs, the type of panels you choose, and the complexity of the installation.
While the upfront cost might seem substantial, the long-term savings are significant. In Dallas, the typical payback period for a solar investment is between 6 to 8 years. Over the 25-year lifespan of your system, you could potentially save over $30,000 on electricity costs. As utility rates continue to rise, these savings will only increase over time.
If you can’t afford to pay for your solar panels outright, don’t worry. There are various financing options available, such as $0-down loans and leases, which make going solar accessible for most homeowners. By opting for a loan or lease, you can start saving on your electricity bills from day one without a large upfront investment.
Texas Solar Incentives
One of the biggest advantages of going solar in Dallas is the array of incentives available. At the federal level, the solar investment tax credit (ITC) allows you to deduct 30% of your solar installation costs from your federal taxes. This credit is available through 2032, after which it will drop to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
| Dallas Solar System Costs(after 30% ITC) | |
| System Size | Avg System Cost |
| 3 kW | $5,775 |
| 4 kW | $7,735 |
| 5 kW | $8,946 |
| 6 kW | $11,186 |
| 7 kW | $13,125 |
| 8 kW | $15,015 |
| 9 kW | $17,570 |
| 10 kW | $18,886 |
In addition to the federal ITC, Texas offers a 100% property tax exemption for the added value of your solar panels. This means that even though your home’s value will increase with solar, you won’t pay any additional property taxes on that added value.
While there are no statewide solar rebate programs in Texas, many local utilities offer their own incentives. For example, the AEP Texas SMART Source Solar PV Program provides rebates of $0.60 per watt, up to $3,000. Check with your local utility provider to see what rebates or incentives they offer.
Another key policy supporting solar in Texas is the solar rights law, which prevents homeowners associations (HOAs) from banning or restricting solar installations. This law ensures that you have the right to install solar panels on your property, regardless of HOA rules.
Optimizing Your Solar Setup
To get the most out of your solar investment, it’s essential to optimize your system’s design and performance. In Dallas, south-facing roofs with minimal shading receive the maximum sun exposure, making them ideal for solar panels. If your roof isn’t perfectly south-facing, don’t worry – east and west-facing roofs can still generate plenty of electricity.
The optimal tilt angle for fixed solar panels in Dallas is around 28°. However, if you opt for adjustable mounts, you can change the tilt seasonally to capture even more sunlight and boost your energy production.
When selecting your solar equipment, prioritize high-quality panels and inverters from reputable brands. Premium components may cost more upfront but will offer better performance, reliability, and durability over the long term. Look for panels with high efficiency ratings and strong warranties to ensure your system will continue generating clean energy for decades to come.
Another factor to consider is adding battery storage to your solar setup. By storing excess electricity produced during the day, you can use that energy at night or during power outages, increasing your energy independence and resilience. As battery technology continues to improve and costs decline, storage is becoming an increasingly popular add-on for solar installations.
Top Solar Companies in Dallas
With so many solar companies to choose from in Dallas, it can be challenging to know where to start. To help narrow down your options, here are some of the top-rated solar installers in the area:
Sunshine Renewable Solutions
Known for their expertise and customer service, Sunshine Renewable Solutions offers high-quality solar installations and competitive pricing. They are quick, not only to make quotations and installations but also to fix errors. Customers praise their amazing customer service, noting that they continue to loyally answer queries even after the installation. They go beyond their hours to ensure the customer is best attended to. One customer was overjoyed that one of the employees visited their house on a weekend trip.
Location: 2631 Lakeforest Ct, Dallas, TX 75214
Phone: 832-280-8838
Good Faith Energy
As Tesla certified installers, the highly experienced engineers at Good Faith Energy will design a custom solar system tailored to the needs of your home or business, maximizing your profits. One customer praises their honesty, as they provided an alternative no-cost approach to something that would have otherwise ensured an expensive contract with the solar company.
Location: 13720 Diplomat Dr, Farmers Branch, TX 75234
Phone: 469-209-5910
Diversified Solar Solutions
As their name suggests, they provide a wide range of solar solutions like system design, permissions, procurement of solar, installation, monitoring, grid coordination, rebate assistance, and ongoing service and support.
Location: 2414 Arbuckle Ct, Dallas, TX 75229
Phone: 214-350-5095
Freedom Solar
Freedom Solar gives you exactly what its name promises: freedom. They take care of everything including communicating with the homeowner’s association, arranging for a loan, and following up after your installation. They present all the options, don’t push you on anything, and keep the whole process transparent.
Location: 3070 Story Rd W, Irving, TX 75038
Phone: 972-441-8230
Sunpro Solar
They’re super quick! They take a little over a week to get all the necessary permissions and finish the installation, explaining every step along the way. Their hard work and dedication even during the pandemic can’t seem to get enough praise.
Location: 2035 Royal Ln # 205, Dallas, TX 75229
Phone: 866-450-1012
Circle L Solar
They are very professional from start to finish. They walk you through the entire process and readily answer queries. They provide excellent post-installation monitoring and support and go a long way to keep all their promises. One customer was overjoyed that they installed extra panels at no cost when it was observed that their initial approximation didn’t meet their power requirement.
Location: 3914 Sandshell Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76137
Phone: 817-945-2011
Kosmos Solar
Kosmos set out to bridge the gap between the needs of consumers and what installers were offering. Keeping customer satisfaction as their top priority, they have climbed up the ladder in solar installation services rather quickly. They’re extremely cautious and don’t even leave a single wire showing anywhere.
Location: 1320 Post & Paddock St #500, Grand Prairie, TX 75050
Phone: 817-769-7802
When choosing a solar company, be sure to get quotes from multiple providers to compare costs, equipment, and warranties. Read reviews from past customers and check each company’s licensing and insurance to ensure they are reputable and reliable.
Making the Switch to Solar
If you’re ready to make the switch to solar in Dallas, here are some key steps to follow:
- Assess your energy needs: Review your past electricity bills to determine how much energy your home typically uses. This will help you size your solar system appropriately.
- Evaluate your property: Consider factors like your roof’s condition, orientation, and shading to determine if your home is a good candidate for solar. If your roof needs repairs or replacement, take care of that before installing panels.
- Get quotes from multiple installers: Reach out to several reputable solar companies in Dallas to request quotes. Provide them with information about your energy usage and property to receive the most accurate estimates.
- Compare costs and options: Review the quotes you receive, comparing not just prices but also the quality of equipment, warranties, and financing options. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and clarify any details before making a decision.
- Take advantage of incentives: Make sure you understand and apply for all available incentives, including the federal tax credit, local rebates, and any other programs that can help reduce your upfront costs.
- Choose a financing option: Decide whether you want to pay for your system outright, take out a loan, or opt for a lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). Consider your budget, long-term savings goals, and eligibility for incentives when making this choice.
- Schedule your installation: Once you’ve selected your installer and financing method, schedule your installation date. The process typically takes one to three days, depending on the size and complexity of your system.
- Enjoy your savings: After your solar panels are installed and connected to the grid, you can start enjoying the benefits of clean, affordable energy. Monitor your system’s performance and enjoy watching your electricity bills shrink over time.
Conclusion
Going solar in Dallas in 2024 is a smart investment that offers both financial and environmental benefits. With falling costs, attractive incentives, and a range of financing options, solar energy is more accessible than ever before. By installing solar panels on your home, you can significantly reduce or even eliminate your electricity bills, protect yourself from rising utility rates, and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
As you explore your solar options in Dallas, remember to do your research, compare quotes from multiple providers, and take advantage of all available incentives. With the right system and installer, you can unlock massive savings and enjoy the many benefits of solar energy for decades to come.
Don’t wait – start your journey to energy independence and sustainability today. Get quotes from top solar companies in Dallas and take the first step towards a brighter, cleaner future powered by the sun.