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Best Solar Companies in Houston, TX

We compared 39 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Best overall
      Freedom Solar Power
      4.4(331)
    • Competitive pricing
      Project Solar
      4.5(86)
    • Solar leases
      Sunrun
      4.2(3,482)

    Best Solar Companies in Houston, TX

    Author picture
    By: Kathryn Parkman
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Matt Zane

    Our top 3 solar company picks for Houston

    1. Best overall: Freedom Solar Power
    2. Best for competitive pricing: Project Solar
    3. Best for leases: Sunrun

    The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties, availability and other factors to select the top picks for this guide. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear. Read the full methodology for all the details on how we make solar company recommendations.

    Best overall

    Freedom Solar Power

    Freedom Solar Power
    4.4
    331 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22.8%
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2007
    Get Started Read Reviews

    We chose Freedom Solar Power as the best overall solar company in Houston for its in-house expertise, high-efficiency equipment and strong customer feedback. The company offers end-to-end service, from on-site consultations to installation and ongoing monitoring, with flexible $0-down financing options.

    Houston reviewers frequently praise its knowledgeable sales reps, smooth installations and noticeable savings on electric bills. Over the last two years, 93% of Freedom’s customers were satisfied with installation, 97% were satisfied with the price and 85% were satisfied with the customer service.

    Pros
    • Excellent customer service
    • 24/7 performance monitoring
    • Transferable warranty
    • In-house, NABCEP-certified installation crews
    Cons
    • Somewhat limited availability
    • No in-house financing

    Texas customers tell us about accommodating reps and quick installations. They like using the app to track their energy production after installations are complete.

    “Freedom Solar Power should keep doing what they're doing. Their reps were excellent. And the installation was seamless. The installers got it all done in one day. Freedom Solar monitors my solar for me, and they tell me if there are any problems. They come out without me even calling them and fix it. I'm on net metering, so my power bill is negative every month since January. Freedom Solar is excellent.”
    Hugh Houston, TX
    “They seemed to be the most upfront and honest about the actual level of savings to expect. And they wanted to make sure that I was aware of the cost balance of things. It was a specialized install because we have a very tall house. It's a very thin but tall building. And the houses are all very close together. So, they had to get some intricate lift set up to get onto the roof… So, I definitely appreciated the months of work that they put in the background that they probably didn't have to with other people with less strict HOAs. That was very good.”
    Justin Houston, TX
    “Everybody that came to do the installation was very kind. They were quick, respectful, and courteous. So, it was a good experience. Since having the system, I've noticed my light bill being negative in the wintertime. It's good that we didn't have that bill. Just last month, we had -13 (dollars). So, we've seen a big difference, which we're really happy with.”
    Nicole Houston, TX

    Freedom Solar isn't necessarily the cheapest option, according to Russell in Houston, but the quality makes it worth it. “And if you're looking to enhance the value of your house long-term for resale, Freedom Solar Power is top of the line,” Russell told us. “I am thoroughly satisfied with Freedom Solar Power. And if I had to do it again, I would.”

    Adam in Richmond mentioned that the app changed recently. He liked the old one a little more. “It's not necessarily as granular as I'd like because I'm very analytical, but it's perfectly fine and serviceable for what it does.”

    Freedom Solar has locations in Houston, Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth and San Antonio. It installs high-efficiency Maxeon, Qcells and Mission Solar panels designed in the U.S., along with Tesla Powerwall and Enphase IQ battery storage for backup power.

    • Warranty information: 25-year product, performance and workmanship warranty, including a 10-year roof penetration guarantee. System output is guaranteed between 84% and 92% of the original rating for 25 years.
    • Payment options: Pay upfront or finance through Freedom’s lending partners, with $0-down options available. Solar leases are not available.
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Installation Experience
    Best for competitive pricing

    Project Solar

    Project Solar
    4.5
    86 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    20.9%
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2016
    Read Reviews

    Project Solar offers an affordable way to go solar without sacrificing quality. Texas reviewers often highlight Project Solar’s clear, no-pressure sales process, competitive pricing and straightforward installations that deliver meaningful savings on electric bills.

    Customers can choose a full-service installation starting at $1.61 per watt or a DIY option from $1.26 per watt, both designed to maximize long-term savings and shorten the payback period.

    Pros
    • Transparent pricing
    • Streamlined installations
    • Great for cost savings
    • Roof-leak warranty
    Cons
    • Less equipment options
    • Subcontracted installers
    • No in-house financing

    Over the last two years, 95% of Project Solar customers told us they were satisfied with the price. Ratings on customer service and technology were also above industry averages.

    “Quick and clear sales process. All questions and change requests were updated quite fast and precisely. Smooth installation, very professional and efficient customer support. Panels and inverters among the best in the market for a very competitive price. And after one year, my system has produced more energy than expected. I do recommend Project Solar!”
    Carlos Richmond, TX
    “Project Solar had a really good price. I liked their no-salesperson signup process because their online tool is really easy to use to see all the information that I would normally get from a rep. It was easy to look online. I just had a few other questions and they answered. They were the type that could be answered over email. I called them at one point. They were able to answer my other couple of little questions. …”
    David Hockley, TX

    Some Texas reviewers mentioned occasional delays in installation or shipping and noted that coordinating energy provider contracts after installation can require extra effort.

    Project Solar offers both professional and DIY solar installation options, handling system design, permitting and support for full-service installs while also catering to homeowners who want to install their own systems.

    Standard packages feature Tier-1 monocrystalline panels from Jinko, with upgrade options from Qcells, LG, Aptos and Panasonic. All systems use Enphase microinverters for optimal per-panel performance, and racking components are selected from trusted brands like IronRidge, EcoFasten and Unirac.

    • Warranty information: 25-year manufacturer’s equipment warranty plus a 10-year workmanship and roof-penetration warranty for full-service installations under the SolarCare program.
    • Payment options: Financing available through Project Solar’s partner lenders for professional installations. DIY customers can pay cash or finance through a third-party lender.
    Best for leases

    Sunrun

    Sunrun
    4.2
    3,482 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22%
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2007
    Get Started Read Reviews

    Sunrun’s lease model lets Houston homeowners go solar with no upfront costs, predictable monthly payments and inclusive maintenance. Sunrun handles installation, repairs, monitoring and insurance. This is all backed by a 25‑year performance guarantee, free repairs and maintenance, and 24/7 system monitoring. 

    Houston customers often highlight quick, professional installations and lower electric bills after going solar with Sunrun.

    Pros
    • Established industry experience
    • Flexible payment options
    • Comprehensive warranties
    • 24/7 system monitoring
    Cons
    • Some communication issues
    • Limited price transparency

    Happy Sunrun customers tell us about significant savings on electric bills, and many highly recommend the company to others.

    “... The crew who did the installation was excellent. They did it in one day and they were very professional. They knew what they were doing and didn't mess around. They went in, put it in and had it working in no time. I was very impressed.”
    Stanley Houston, TX
    “The guy who did the installation was very quick and professional. He cleaned up good and did everything alright. Since I went solar, my savings is about $30 a month so it’s good. People stop here at the house and ask me about Sunrun and I tell them that it had awards. It is good.”
    Miguel Houston, TX
    “It took one day to put our solar panels up. They're doing all right. Now, our light bill is a heck of a lot lower than the one we had before. We also never lost power even in the freeze that we had.
    Dorothy Houston, TX

    Some reviews mention miscommunications or billing issues. For instance, Doretha in Houston initially believed that going solar would be a better deal than paying the light company but later realized that they still had to pay both the light bill and the solar system. She did say that the Sunrun customer service was helpful, at least.

    Sunrun is a leading U.S. residential solar and battery storage provider. It installs high-efficiency monocrystalline panels from top manufacturers, including LG, REC, Qcells and Canadian Solar. In Houston, Sunrun’s Brightbox system uses the LG Chem battery to provide backup power during outages.

    • Warranty information: Lease customers receive a 25-year performance guarantee with roof leak protection, free maintenance and 24/7 system monitoring. Purchases and loans include manufacturer equipment coverage and a 10-year workmanship warranty.
    • Payment options: You can pay for your system upfront or take out a loan, but the leasing plans are what really set Sunrun apart from your other options. There’s no initial charge for any solar equipment, installation or permit.
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

    Solar Companies in Houston Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Freedom Solar Power logo
    Project Solar logo
    Sunrun logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      We’ve talked to hundreds of Texas residents who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Some want the latest solar technologies to maximize energy production. Others just want a quick way to go solar while minimizing the upfront costs. Whatever your goal, here’s what to expect — and what to avoid — when going solar in Houston.

      NOTE: President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” signed in July of 2025, phases out the federal solar tax credit. You now only have until Dec. 31, 2025, to install a system and get the 30% solar tax credit.

      Key insights

      A typical residential solar installation in Houston costs $7,501 to $21,431, depending on your system size and available incentives.

      Jump to insight

      Federal and local financial incentives can make going solar more affordable for Houston residents. You can also lease a system or enter a power purchase agreement with little upfront costs.

      Jump to insight

      Watch out for door-to-door solar scams. Sometimes, reps will exaggerate your potential energy savings or fail to disclose the full costs associated with installation and maintenance. Scammers are also known to use high-pressure sales tactics to rush consumers into signing contracts.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Houston

      Solar panel costs in Houston are in line with state averages. An average 7-kW residential system in Texas costs $14,636 before applying the federal solar tax credit.

      System size is one of the biggest factors in your total cost of going solar. The average Texas household needs a system with a capacity 7.1 kW to offset enough energy costs to make solar viable. You might need a smaller or larger system, depending on your household energy usage. On the high end, Haojun in Houston told us they spent around $50,000 going solar.

      Average total solar installation costs by system size in Houston

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. “Cost per watt” is like the “price per square foot” when you buy a house. It helps you compare the value of solar energy systems in different sizes. In Texas, the average cost per watt is $2.09.

      Is solar worth it in Houston?

      Houston’s hot summers and frequent power outages make solar appealing for many homeowners. Solar panels are generally worth it in Texas — they can lower monthly utility bills, and pairing them with a battery can provide backup power during blackouts. The main drawback is the high upfront cost of purchase and installation.

      Edward Hirs, an energy economics expert at the University of Houston, notes that batteries are especially valuable in cities like Houston, where outages are common. With solar panels and storage, you can keep lights on, avoid food spoilage and skip costly hotel stays during extended outages.

      Still, solar isn’t right for everyone. Houston averages 4.5 to 6 peak sun hours per day, but shading from trees or nearby buildings can reduce system efficiency.

      The environmental impact of one home going solar may be small, but widespread adoption in a city like Houston can significantly cut air pollution.

      You can use the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate annual solar production for your home by entering your address. Project Sunroof is another free savings estimator that uses Google Earth imagery.

      As long as your house is a good candidate, it’s at least worth considering solar panels. On average, Texas homeowners with solar panels can avoid $52,762 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      How to choose a solar company in Houston

      To choose the right solar company in Houston, look for a Texas solar company with years of local experience, high-quality equipment and clear, transparent contracts. Here are some tips to help you evaluate solar companies:

      • Check certifications: Verify a contractor's license with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). The Interstate Renewable Energy Council’s National Solar Licensing Database lists current licensing and certification requirements. We also recommend choosing an installer certified through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
      • Read reviews: Research the company's track record and read reviews. Look out for red flags — complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication are common themes in negative solar company reviews. Local experience matters — companies familiar with Houston’s permitting, regulations and incentives can streamline the process.
      • Ask questions: Consider whether you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guards. Review proposals, warranties and payment terms carefully. Ask about maintenance and get clear answers before you sign.

      Solar panels last decades — hire a company you trust to be around for the next 25 years to support your system.

      » TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      How can I pay for solar panels?

      You can pay for solar panels with cash, financing or a lease (much like buying a vehicle). Each option has trade-offs in cost, ownership, maintenance responsibility and incentive eligibility.

      • Solar loans: A solar loan works like any other type of loan. These loans have relatively low fixed interest rates. Once you pay it off, you own your system outright.
      • Leasing options: You get to use the panels but don’t own them. Solar leases often run 20 to 25 years and include maintenance, but you won’t qualify for federal or most state/local incentives — the system owner claims them.
      • Power purchase agreements: Similar to leasing, a power purchase agreement (PPA) lets you get the benefits of solar without actually owning the equipment. A third party installs and maintains solar panels on your property. You buy the power generated by the panels on a per kilowatt-hour (kWh) basis. It’s typically a fixed price, with a cheaper cents/kWh rate than traditional utilities have for the same amount of electricity. Incentives go to the third-party owner, not you.
      • Home equity loans or lines of credit (HELOC): Eligible homeowners can borrow against equity in their house to finance a solar panel system. These often have variable interest rates, meaning monthly payments can increase over time. Like cash purchases and loans, you own the system and can claim federal and most local incentives.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Solar incentives in Houston

      Several utility companies in the Houston area offer solar buyback credits or programs for excess energy generated by residential solar panels, including Gexa Energy and TXU Energy. While Texas doesn’t have statewide net metering, these programs function in a similar way.

      In May 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency awarded grants to the Texas Solar For All Coalition and the Clean Energy Fund of Texas to expand access to solar in low-income communities through community solar projects.

      Federal tax credit

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is still the best financial incentive for many homeowners in Houston. It reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of how much it costs to install solar panels. For example, if your system costs $10,000, the credit is worth $3,000, lowering a $15,000 tax bill to $12,000.

      Don’t get confused: The ITC is a credit, meaning it directly decreases the amount of taxes you owe. This is different from a deduction, which lowers your taxable income.

      Federal solar tax credit expires at the end of 2025

      The ITC is now set to expire at the end of the year, much earlier than previously scheduled. The credit was expected to drop gradually, then fully expire in 2035 — but those future step-downs have been eliminated under the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” signed in July of 2025. This means you have until Dec. 31, 2025, to install and pay for a system to qualify for the 30% credit.

      What to know about net metering in Houston

      Net metering is a system of give-and-take between you and your utility company. It lets you access power from the grid when your panels don’t generate enough electricity.

      You also earn credits for sending any excess solar energy to the grid. These credits can then be used to offset your electricity bill when your solar panels are not producing enough energy.

      Unlike many states, Texas doesn’t have a statewide net metering policy. Instead, its energy market is largely deregulated, allowing individual utility companies to set their own policies.

      Net metering is not technically available in Houston. However, there are similar programs called “solar buyback” or “energy credit” programs offered by various retail electric providers (REPs). These programs work a lot like net metering.

      » MORE: Texas solar incentives, tax credits and rebates

      FAQ

      Can I get solar panels for free in Houston?

      We’re not aware of a totally free solar option in Houston. However, you can lease or enter a power purchase agreement with little to no upfront costs. There is usually a low ongoing monthly fee. In general, beware of deals that sound too good to be true.

      What solar scams are common in Houston?

      In recent years, the Texas attorney general has received a significant rise in complaints against solar companies, from 80 in 2020 to 378 complaints in 2023. One of the most common solar scams involves the creation of fake companies that sell solar panel systems without any intention of ever installing them.

      The other one is falsely claiming to be affiliated with state agencies. Reps might try to convince consumers that their services are being performed on behalf of the City of Houston or Harris County. Scammers might ask you to fill out fraudulent paperwork, later using your personal information to steal your identity.

      Are there any solar options for renters in Houston?

      If you don’t own your house, community solar lets you subscribe to a solar installation and receive a share of the energy it produces. Texas does not explicitly legislate community solar programs; the complex nature of the Texas electricity market offers a patchwork of community solar options that complement rooftop solar and the potential for many more options to evolve. Much of the community solar currently available in Texas is offered through municipal utilities and electric co-ops.

      What are the different types of solar panels?

      Monocrystalline and polycrystalline are the most common types of solar panels used in residential installations. In general, monocrystalline panels are considered the best bang for your buck. Cheaper solar panels are typically polycrystalline. The difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline comes down to efficiency and materials: Monocrystalline panels are made from pure, single silicon crystals; various silicon fragments melted together are used to make polycrystalline panels.

      Solar panel efficiency is a measure of how well a panel makes electricity. Standard efficiency rates range from 19% to 23%, which means 19% to 23% of the sunlight that hits the panels gets converted into electricity. The more efficient the solar panels you buy are, the fewer panels you need. While more efficient panels cost a little more, you save by buying fewer panels.

      Is my house a good candidate for solar?

      Houston (and the rest of the United States) is in the Northern Hemisphere, so solar panels perform best on south-facing roofs. The worst place to install would be on north-facing roofs, especially if those roofs have a high pitch. For example, if the only place you can install is a north-facing roof with a 30-degree pitch, your costs will likely go up by 30% to 40%.

      • How old are my appliances? Getting your electrical loads as small as possible before going solar means that you’ll need a smaller system — and save energy, which will be cheaper overall.
      • What is the condition of my roof? If you have to replace your roof, do that before you install solar panels. Solar panels are designed to last up to 30 years, so you want your roof to last just as long. Otherwise, it could cost thousands to remove the panels, fix your roof and reinstall the panels.
      Do I need any permits to install solar panels in Houston?

      In Houston, a permit is required for installing residential solar panels. You need a plan review and an inspection first, and fees range from around $32 to $87. You can apply online or in person at the Houston Permitting Center.

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

      In Texas, homeowners associations and property owners associations can't prevent you from installing solar panels, but they can impose restrictions. For example, panels can't extend above the roofline and must be silver, bronze or black.

      How long do solar panel installations take?

      Installation times depend on a range of factors, especially seasonality and supply chain issues. The actual installation might take only a day, but it takes time to design and plan, and you also have to activate the system.

      How are solar costs trending in Houston?

      Solar equipment costs are going down, but labor costs are higher than ever in some areas. Overall solar panel installation costs in Texas have fallen 47% over the last decade, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association.

      Is it cheaper if I install solar panels myself?

      It’s potentially cheaper to install your solar energy system yourself, but it’s difficult and dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing, especially for a large residential project.

      » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros and cons and installation guide

      Methodology

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a data-driven approach, informed by expert editors, to choose the best solar companies in Houston. The key features and their respective weightings were:

      Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%

      To gauge real-world satisfaction, we analyzed solar company reviews by verified customers. Companies with generally positive feedback scored highest in this aspect. Those with the most 4- and 5-star reviews by verified Houston customers were given preference.

      Warranties: 20%

      A long warranty is important — it shows that a company stands behind its products and services. We compared companies on both equipment and craftsmanship warranty terms. All of our top picks for professional installation have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      Equipment selection: 20%

      We evaluated each company’s selection of solar panels, storage batteries and inverters. Those with proprietary technology or a wide equipment selection from trusted brands ranked highest.

      Reputation and local experience: 20%

      We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in Houston. Solar is a booming industry, and there are some sketchy installers out there. Company history, current reputation, mission and values were also considered.

      Our goal is to highlight solar companies that are best equipped to meet most Houston homeowners' needs. The team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks.

      Guide sources

      ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

      1. DSIRE, "Texas Programs." Accessed Aug. 10, 2025.
      2. EnergySage, “The cost of solar panels in Texas.” Accessed Aug. 10, 2025.
      3. EnergySage, “The cost of solar panels in Houston, TX.” Accessed Aug. 10, 2025.
      4. Solar Energy Industries Association, “Texas Solar.” Accessed Aug. 10, 2025.
      5. SolarReviews, “How much do solar panels cost in Texas?” Accessed Aug. 10, 2025.
      6. Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation, “Solar Panel Consumer Information.” Accessed Aug. 10, 2025.
      7. Houston Permitting Center, “Solar Panel Permit.” Accessed Aug. 10, 2025.
      8. Houston Permitting Center, “Building Code Enforcement.” Accessed Aug. 10, 2025.
      9. Click2Houston.com, “KPRC 2 Investigates: Solar panel sales exploding in Houston; Here’s what you need to know to keep from being taken advantage of.” Accessed Aug. 10, 2025.

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