SOLAR BLOG

Key Takeaways

  • Texas has abundant sunlight, which makes it an ideal location for solar energy with an average of 204 sunny days per year.
  • The average cost of 5kW solar panel installation in Texas is around $11,000, but federal tax credits can reduce this by 30%.
  • Installing solar panels can increase your property value by up to 4.1%.
  • Consider factors like roof condition, available space, and local incentives when deciding if solar is right for your home.
  • Nuance Energy is a trusted provider of ground-mount solar racking systems all over the US.

Are Installing Solar Panels Worth It In Texas

1. Average ROI

The average ROI for solar panel systems in Texas ranges from 9% to 10%, which makes it one of the most attractive states for solar investments in the U.S. This high ROI is primarily driven by Texas’s abundant sunlight and favorable regulatory environment.

2. Payback Period

Property owners can expect their solar panels to pay for themselves within 9 to 15 years, with the average being 12 years. This means they can expect to recoup their initial investment within this timeframe, after which they will make a profit out of it.

3. Energy Savings

Owners in Texas can save around $32,651 over the expected lifespan of the panels after the initial investment is recouped. Given that Texas residents face higher electricity rates, these savings can be very impactful.

4. Property Value Increase

Installing solar panels can also increase property value. Homes and commercial properties equipped with solar energy systems see an increase in value by about 4.1%. This added value makes solar installations also a strategic real estate investment.

5. Environmental Impact

Beyond financial considerations, installing solar panels significantly reduces a household’s carbon footprint – by as much as 75% – and contributes positively to environmental sustainability efforts. Owners can expect to offset around 12.7 tons of CO2 emissions annually, which is equivalent to saving about 296 trees each year.

Nuance Energy is your superior solution for Ground Mount solar. Our patented foundation technology, in the Osprey PowerRack™, allows for rapid installation using only handheld tools, significantly reducing both time and costs compared to traditional racking systems. This cutting-edge technology works for residential and commercial installations, and Nuance Energy empowers solar installers to take back control of their installation schedules, control project COGS, gain market share, increase the speed of installation, and reduce costs and labor. In contrast, a traditional ground mount is much more unpredictable, slower, and costly.

Find out how Nuance Energy can accelerate your solar projects with the Osprey PowerRack™ line, and boost your profitability.   

Contact us today to discuss our innovative ground-mount solutions.

Cost Of Installing Solar Panels In Texas

Costs for different system sizes are as follows:

System Size System Cost (Before 30% Tax Credit)
3 kW $6,583
4 kW $8,777
5 kW $10,972
6 kW $13,166
7 kW $15,361
8 kW $17,555
9 kW $19,749
10 kW $21,944

Pro Tip: The Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows owners to deduct 30% of the total installation cost from their federal taxes. For example, a 5 kW system costing $10,972 would drop to about $7,680 after applying the ITC.

Best Solar Panel Options For Texas

Monocrystalline solar panels provide a good balance of affordability and performance

1. Monocrystalline Solar Panels

Monocrystalline solar panels are made from a single crystal structure, which gives them a sleek appearance and high efficiency. They achieve efficiencies of around 20%, which makes them one of the most efficient options available. 

Although they come at a higher price point – around $3 to $4 per watt – their longevity (often exceeding 25 years) and superior performance in low-light conditions make them a solid investment for those looking to maximize energy production.

2. Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Polycrystalline panels are constructed from multiple crystal structures, which results in a more affordable option compared to monocrystalline panels. Their efficiency ranges from 13% to 16%, and they generally cost between $2 to $3 per watt. 

While they require more space due to their lower efficiency, they can perform well in the hot climate of Texas. These panels are ideal for budget-conscious people who still want reliable solar energy.

3. Thin-Film Solar Panels

Thin-film solar panels are lightweight and flexible, made from various materials such as cadmium telluride or amorphous silicon. They have lower efficiencies, usually between 10% and 12%, and are the most affordable option at around $1 to $2 per watt. 

However, since they require more space for installation due to their lower energy output, they are less common for applications with very limited space.

4. Bifacial Solar Panels

Bifacial solar panels can capture sunlight on both sides to increase their overall energy output. They are effective in environments with reflective surfaces, such as snow or sand. With efficiencies similar to monocrystalline panels, bifacial options can provide additional energy generation without requiring extra space. 

Challenges and Considerations

1. Roof Condition and Suitability

A roof in poor condition may need repairs or replacement before solar panels can be installed. Additionally, the roof’s orientation and shading from trees or nearby buildings can significantly impact the system’s efficiency.

2. Weather Considerations

Texas experiences extreme weather conditions, including high winds and hail storms. While solar panels are generally durable, those looking to install solar should consider investing in panels with good warranties to protect against potential damage from severe weather events.

3. Maintenance Issues

Solar panels require periodic maintenance for optimal performance. Owners should be prepared for potential ongoing costs related to maintenance and repairs.

Read More: How to Continue Installing Ground Mount Solar During the Harsh Winter – Even in Frozen Ground

Nuance Energy: The Best Solution For Installing Ground-Mount Solar

Osprey PowerRack™ makes ground-mount solar installation cost-effective and quick

Nuance Energy stands out as the best choice for installing ground-mount solar systems. Here’s why:

1. Innovative Osprey PowerRack™

The Osprey PowerRack™ is a patented ground-mount solar racking system that uses advanced earth anchor technology. It eliminates the need for heavy equipment, concrete, and extensive geotechnical reports to significantly reduce installation time and costs.

2. Cost Efficiency

By simplifying the installation process, we enable contractors to complete projects more quickly and efficiently.

Moreover, the absence of heavy machinery and ground screws further lowers project costs, which allows them to enjoy substantial savings compared to traditional ground-mount systems.

3. Year-Round Installation Capability

Our racking system can be installed even in winter conditions – so all the projects can proceed without delays due to seasonal weather challenges.

4. Improved Durability

The earth anchor foundation used in the Osprey system provides superior stability against environmental factors such as high winds and frost upheaval.

5. Commitment to Sustainability

We emphasize environmentally friendly practices by transforming previously unusable land (like brownfields) into productive solar energy sites.

“Our system is far more environmentally friendly because we don’t use concrete. This not only reduces the carbon footprint of the installation but also makes the system easier to remove or relocate if needed in the future.” — Tommy Boguess

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long do solar panels last in Texas?

Solar panels generally have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years. However, many panels continue to produce electricity beyond this timeframe, albeit at a reduced efficiency. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help extend the life of your panels and operate efficiently.

What maintenance do solar panels require?

Regular cleaning to remove dust, debris, and bird droppings can help maintain efficiency. It’s also important to schedule periodic inspections to check for any damage or issues with wiring and connections.

Are there any permits required for solar installations?

Yes, installing solar panels typically requires permits that vary by jurisdiction. Most installations will need an electrical permit for safety and compliance with local building codes.

How does net metering work in Texas?

Texas does not have a statewide net metering policy. However, many local utilities provide net metering programs that allow homeowners to sell excess energy back to the grid. This can result in credits on your utility bill for additional savings and improving the return on investment for your solar installation.

How does Nuance Energy address environmental concerns?

Our technology is designed to minimize environmental impact. The earth anchor foundation preserves soil stability and allows for solar installations on contaminated lands to transform them into productive energy sites.

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