The 5 best solar installers in Texas
Atma Energy Local
Why listed: 2026 EnergySage Local Installer of the Year for Texas. Consistently top-ranked across Texas metros for residential solar quality and customer service.
Palmetto Energy National
Why listed: Top-ranked across multiple Texas cities on third-party review platforms. Residential-focused with Tier 1 panel selection and strong post-install monitoring.
Texas Solar Professional Local
Why listed: Listed in top rankings for both Houston and Dallas. Full-service residential and small-commercial solar with strong local permitting expertise.
Solartime USA Local
Why listed: Founded 2009 with 32,000+ installations. One of the longest-running TX-headquartered residential installers. Strong reputation in DFW and across the state.
Kosmos Solar Local
Why listed: Established 2016 with 4.9★ Google rating across hundreds of reviews. Values honesty, integrity, and communication — strong customer-service culture is consistently called out in reviews.
Texas solar economics in 2026
| Metric | Texas average |
|---|---|
| Average residential rate | $0.12–$0.18 / kWh |
| Typical 8 kW system cost (cash) | $22,000–$28,000 before incentives |
| Average $/W | $2.75–3.50 |
| Average annual production (kWh per kW) | ~1,500–1,650 kWh/kW/year |
| Net metering structure | Varies by retail electric provider — Green Mountain, Octopus, and others offer 1:1 buyback |
| Average cash payback | 12–14 years |
For full state-by-state cost comparison see solar cost by state.
Texas incentives and rebates
- Property tax exemption: Texas exempts the added home value from solar from property tax assessment (must apply).
- Utility-specific rebates: Austin Energy ($2,500), CPS Energy (San Antonio), Oncor (DFW area). Verify with your retail electric provider.
- Choose your retailer carefully: Solar buyback rates vary 5–15¢/kWh between providers — switching electric providers can dramatically improve solar economics.
- Federal commercial ITC: Lease and PPA structures benefit from the commercial ITC pass-through. See federal tax credit guide.
What to verify before signing in Texas
- Contractor license: Verify with your state contractor licensing authority before signing.
- NABCEP certification: Most reputable installers carry NABCEP-certified installers on staff. Ask which crew member holds the certification.
- Insurance: General liability + workers comp + roofer's insurance separate from electrical insurance.
- References from your county: Permitting and inspection requirements vary. Ask for 2–3 references from your specific county.
- Get at least three bids: Solar bids vary by 20–35% on the same scope of work. See how to compare solar bids.
Got bids from Texas installers? Compare them properly.
Upload up to four solar proposals from any Texas installer. The analyzer compares $/W, production estimates, equipment, and financing structure — and tells you which one to sign.
Analyze My Bids →Frequently asked questions about Texas solar
Does solar make sense in Texas?
Yes for most homeowners with a $150+ monthly electric bill, an unshaded roof, and 8+ years of expected ownership. Texas's specific economics are summarized in the table above.
How much does a typical Texas solar install cost in 2026?
$22,000–$28,000 for an 8 kW system before incentives. Effective net cost depends on your state and utility incentives.
Should I get more than three bids?
Yes — three is a minimum. Four or five is better. Solar bids vary by 20–35% on the same scope of work. See how to compare solar bids.
Are there other reputable Texas solar installers besides these?
Many. The list above represents installers with strong public profiles in Texas; reputable installers exist beyond it. Get bids from a mix and compare them objectively rather than relying on any one list.