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Best Solar Companies in Houston, TX

We compared 39 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Freedom Solar Power
      4.6(282)
    • Competitive pricing
      Project Solar
      4.8(77)
    • Solar leases
      Sunrun
      4.2(3,033)

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      Best Solar Companies in Houston, TX

      A typical solar panel installation in Texas costs between $7,350 and $21,000, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for. That’s a lot of money. Let’s make sure that your installation is reliable, efficient and suitable for Houston’s climate.

      To choose the top solar companies for this guide, we compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranty terms and other factors. 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 our full methodology for all the details on how we make solar company recommendations.

      Our top solar company picks

      1. Top overall: Freedom Solar Power
      2. Competitive pricing: Project Solar
      3. Great for leases: Sunrun
      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,572,091 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
      • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
      • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
      • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

      The best solar companies reviewed

      Freedom Solar Power

      4.6
      282 reviews
      Buyer's Choice Award Winner
      Max. panel efficiency
      22.8%
      Panel warranty
      25 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan
      Year founded
      2007
      2x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service and Best for Installation

      We’ve talked to more than 200 Freedom Solar customers across the country. Over the last two years, 96% were satisfied with the installation and set up, 96% were satisfied with the price and 83% were satisfied with the customer service.

      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 in Houston
      • “... 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 in Houston
      • “... 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 in Houston

      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. They install American-designed solar panels and offer two reliable backup battery options, the Tesla Powerwall and the SunPower SunVault.

      • Warranty information: Freedom Solar Power has a 25-year lifetime warranty on equipment and installations. System performance is guaranteed between 84% and 92% of original production for 25 years.
      • Payment options: You can pay upfront or get a loan through one of its financing partners. Freedom does not currently offer solar leases.

      Pros

      • Excellent customer service
      • 24/7 performance monitoring
      • Transferable warranty
      • In-house, NABCEP-certified installation crews

      Cons

      • Somewhat limited availability
      • No in-house financing
      Our pick for competitive pricing

      Project Solar

      4.8
      77 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      20.9%
      Panel warranty
      25 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan
      Year founded
      2016

      Project Solar reps focus on a simple, streamlined customer experience. Its no-sales-gimmicks approach appeals to more budget-conscious solar clients who want either professional or do-it-yourself installation. We also appreciate the price transparency. Full-service installations start at $1.61 per watt. DIY projects are cheaper, starting at $1.26 per watt.

      Over the last two years, 94% 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 in Richmond
      • “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 in Hockley

      The installation process is generally smooth and professional, but we have heard about some delays due to material shortages or supply chain issues.

      Project Solar specializes in professional and DIY solar panel installations. Systems incorporate equipment from reputable brands like Qcells, Canadian Solar, Jinko and Enphase.

      • Warranty information: There is a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 10-year workmanship warranty. Both are limited and have exclusions like weather damage or misuse.
      • Payment options: Project Solar partners with a few lenders to offer financing solutions for professional installations. DIY customers can pay cash or finance through a third-party lender.

      Pros

      • Transparent pricing
      • Streamlined installations
      • Great for cost savings
      • Roof-leak warranty

      Cons

      • Less equipment options
      • Subcontracted installers
      • No in-house financing
      Our pick for solar leases

      Sunrun

      4.2
      3,033 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      22%
      Panel warranty
      Varies
      Payment options
      Cash, loan, lease
      Year founded
      2007

      Sunrun’s leasing program lets you go solar without a huge upfront investment. There’s no initial charge for any panels or other equipment, installation or permits. Sunrun owns the system, and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use it. Contracts typically last for 25 years, with free maintenance and repairs during this time.

      Happy customers tell us about significant savings on electric bills, and many highly recommend Sunrun 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 in Houston
      • “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 in Houston
      • “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 in Houston

      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 residential solar, battery storage and energy services provider in the United States. They install monocrystalline solar panels from reputable manufacturers, like LG.

      • Warranty information: Workmanship and equipment are covered for 10 years. The 95% system performance guarantee lasts 25 years. Sunrun also stands out for offering roof leak protection.
      • 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.

      Pros

      • Long time in business
      • Flexible payment options
      • Comprehensive warranties
      • Daily system monitoring

      Cons

      • Some communication issues
      • Limited price transparency

      How we chose the best solar companies in Houston

      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%
      • Warranties: 20%
      • Equipment selection: 20%
      • Reputation and local experience: 20%

      » MORE: Full methodology

      Houston solar panel buyers guide

      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. Either way, here’s what to expect and what to look out for.

      Key insights

      A typical residential solar installation in Houston costs $7,983 to $22,809, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for.

      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

      As of publishing, solar panel costs in Houston are comparable to averages in the rest of the state. An average 7-kW residential solar installation in Texas costs $14,700 before considering the federal solar tax credit.

      The size of your solar panel system is a big factor in your total cost. The average Texas household needs a system with a capacity of 10.32 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 $2.10.

      Is solar worth it in Houston?

      Houston's hot summers and frequent power outages make solar particularly appealing. Solar panels are generally worth it in Texas if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. The main drawback is the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment.

      Edward Hirs, an energy economics expert at the University of Houston, emphasized the benefits of solar batteries, particularly in areas like Houston with regular or semiregular power outages. With solar panels and an energy storage battery, you can keep your lights on. You don't have to worry about your food spoiling or staying in a hotel until the power comes back.

      But it doesn’t work out for everyone. Houston averages 4.5 to 6 peak sun hours each day. However, lots of shading — like trees or tall buildings above your roof — could make your solar system less efficient.

      Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 over 25 years.

      Use the Nation Renewable Energy Laboratory’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house — just type in your address. Project Sunroof is a free solar savings estimator powered by Google Earth imagery.

      As long as your house is a good candidate for solar, it’s at least worth considering. On average, Texas homeowners with solar panels can avoid $61,774 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      How to find a reputable solar company in Houston

      In our experience, the best solar companies in Texas have a few things in common: long time in business, reliable equipment and 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 (IREC) has a National Solar Licensing Database that lists the latest licensing, certification and other requirements impacting the solar industry. 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. Companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in Houston are better at navigating the local regulations, permits and available financial incentives.
      • Ask questions: Consider whether you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guards. Then, carefully review proposals and financials, understand legal considerations and ask about maintenance before signing an agreement. If you don’t understand something about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services, ask for clarification.

      Solar panels last a long time — you want to hire a well-established company that will still be around for system support for at least 25 years.

      » TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      How can I pay for solar panels?

      Getting solar panels is a little like buying a vehicle. You could pay cash, but many people finance through a loan. Similarly, leasing solar equipment could be a good option if you don’t want to take on debt or be responsible for system maintenance.

      • 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 can be good if you have limited savings. Agreements typically last 20 to 25 years.
      • 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.
      • 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.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Going solar in Harris County

      The environmental impact of a single homeowner installing solar panels may be relatively small, but when enough people in a city like Houston go solar, the cumulative reduction in air pollution can be significant.

      » GREENEST STATES: Texas ranked No. 21 in 2024

      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.

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

      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.

      The ITC drops to 26% in 2033 and then 22% in 2034.

      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.

      For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If in the year your system becomes operational you owe $15,000 in taxes, the ITC reduces what you owe to $12,000.

      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

      Houston solar 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 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, 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.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: Texas ranked 26th in 2024

      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: How we chose the best solar companies in Houston

      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 June 13, 2024.
      2. EnergySage, “The cost of solar panels in Texas.” Accessed June 13, 2024.
      3. EnergySage, “The cost of solar panels in Houston, TX.” Accessed June 13, 2024.
      4. Solar Energy Industries Association, “Texas Solar.” Accessed June 13, 2024.
      5. SolarReviews, “How much do solar panels cost in Texas?” Accessed June 13, 2024.
      6. Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation, “Solar Panel Consumer Information.” Accessed June 13, 2024.
      7. Houston Permitting Center, “Solar Panel Permit.” Accessed June 14, 2024.
      8. Houston Permitting Center, “Building Code Enforcement.” Accessed June 14, 2024.
      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 June 6, 2024.

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