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Solar energy is quickly becoming an increasingly viable method of powering cities across the United States and Dallas, Texas, is poised to become a leader in the solar energy movement. Though the state is better known for its association with the oil industry, Dallas is looking to change that. This guide will help Dallas residents learn about solar in their area and everything they’ll need to know to help reduce their carbon footprint.
Texas is a very educated and mature energy market. We were one of the first to deregulate and we kind of built our own model. There are lots of different plans offered that really allow customers who know their usage to pick a plan that is most beneficial to them.”
4 Facts to Know About Solar in Dallas
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In Environment America’s report Shining Cities 2019: How Smart Local Policies Are Expanding Solar Power in America, Dallas ranked 35th in Total Solar PV with 9.6 MW at the end of 2018. Texas cities Austin and San Antonio fared better, coming in at15th (50.6 MW) and 7th (186.9 MW) respectively.
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In 2019, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency named the City of Dallas the second largest local government user of green power in the country. That means that of the 745,000 MWh city facilities use in a year, an equal amount of electricity goes back onto the grid by renewable energy sources like solar and wind.
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In August 2016, the affluent Dallas suburb of Allen’s City Council reinforced its ordinance that restricts solar panels from being placed on the front of homes facing public streets. The council cited aesthetic concerns as well as concerns that visible solar panels would decrease nearby property values. The council agreed to readdress the issue as solar panel technology evolves.
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Wind power is big in west Texas. With almost 18,000 MW of wind capacity, a huge boost for the renewable energy industry was an $8 billion transmission system constructed to send renewable wind energy to big cities like Dallas and Houston. Dallas’ use of wind power offsets the same amount of carbon dioxide created by about 70,000 homes’ electric power use annually, according to Green Dallas.
IN-DEPTH: Solar in Dallas
Consumers in about 85 percent of Texas get to choose their own electric companies thanks to a 1999 deregulation law. In Dallas, Oncor is the electric utility company that serves the city, but consumers can choose between retail electric providers and their various prices and service plans. While Oncor offers a solar photovoltaic program, some retail electric providers offer alternative energy plans where a customer’s energy comes from solar and wind power.
As complicated as the Texas energy market may be, the sun shining down is not hard to understand. Many in the Dallas area are taking advantage of the sun’s easy energy:
Jay Squyres / North Texas Renewable Energy Group
Electricity prices
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average cost for electricity in Dallas is $0.14 per kWh, which is more than the $0.13 per kWh average cost of electricity in the U.S. as a whole.
When it comes to a customer’s return on investment, the amount of energy used has a strong relation to a solar energy systems value. It’s no secret that it can get hot in Texas, and with high temperatures average energy consumption tends to increase making the installation of a solar energy system a worthwhile investment.
Photovoltaic potential
Though Texas is generally well-known for its incredibly effective use of wind power, it is just now beginning to capitalize on its high average of sunny days, about 135 days annually, to become a solar powerhouse. Since Texas is the second-largest state in the nation, it is home to several different climates. West Texas has the highest photovoltaic potential, however, that doesn’t mean that those in Dallas shouldn’t install solar power systems.
There are no statewide [solar] incentives in Texas, but there are local utility incentives. In the North Dallas market, the big utility is Oncor, which has a utility incentive that’s based on kilowatt rate. And what we see is that the areas with incentives are impacted most by the status of the incentive.”
Policies & incentives
Oftentimes the perception surrounding solar energy systems is that they are unaffordable and only accessible to the wealthy. However, there are several federal, state and provider incentives and rebates in place that make the installation and maintenance of solar photovoltaic systems a financial reality for those looking to make the switch.
CoServe – Solar Energy RebateCoserve Electric Cooperative offers this incentive to its solar-minded members. Customers who install a solar energy system on their property are eligible for a $350 rebate per kW AC and can go up to $1,000 maximum.
Oncor – Solar Photovoltaic ProgramAmcor’s solar PV program is available to any customer that installs a solar energy system on their property. The program has to incentive levels: $538. 53/kW AC and $0.2519/ kWh AC.
Selling excess renewable powerIn areas with retail electric competition, some Texas utilities offer net metering for customers with distributed renewable generation systems (wind and solar). In areas without electric competition and not served by a cooperative or municipal utility, the utility is required to buy DRG power at a rate equal to its avoided cost. If you get your energy from a municipal utility or cooperative, talk with the utility to find out the terms of selling excess renewable power. Find electric companies that offer net-metering-type agreements here.
Property Tax ExemptionThe State of Texas exempts 100 percent of the appraised property value increase stemming from the installation of a solar system.
Permitting & interconnection ease
With Dallas’s rapid growth in solar photovoltaic installation, obtaining the proper permits and connecting to the solar grid is relatively simple. Requests for permitting are overseen by the sustainable development and construction – building inspection division. Generally speaking, requests are returned promptly though there is no option to request a permit online and no expedited permit process. Solar contractors require no special licensing beyond a business license and NABCEP certification. In order to obtain a solar permit, there must be two scheduled inspections, oftentimes the most common reason for a failed inspection is a failure to adhere to the proposed plan.
Compared to the other big players, North Texas isn’t as developed or as mature as the Northeast U.S. or California in regard to solar, and it is not as condensed. Our population is more widespread. That being said, there’s a lot of opportunity and a lot of people are really making that turn to solar.”
Solar Companies in Dallas
With solar energy’s increasing popularity in the Dallas/Fort Worth area and Texas as a whole, there is an incredible array of options for those looking to make their homes greener while also adding property value. Below is a list of solar energy contractors and installers that service residential areas throughout the area.
We would really recommend that if you are going to solar in the State of Texas, make sure that the installer or supplier you’ve contracted with is licensed with the State of Texas. That license is key as far as making sure that they are a legitimate installer and that the work done is held to a certain standard.”
- Est. 2015
- 5000 Eldorado Parkway, Ste. 150-274
Frisco, TX 75033 - (855) 601-7652
1 Solar Solution offers design and installation services in addition to in-house financing options for those looking to put a solar energy system into their home. Based out of Dallas, the company looks to make solar energy systems accessible to as many people as possible.
- Est. 2014
- 341 W. Mockingbird Lane
Dallas, TX 75247 - (512) 329-2117
512 Solar designs, installs and maintains solar PV systems in several Texas locations, including the Dallas-Fort Worth area. 512 Solar is a licensed, certified and commercially insured company that has performed over 2,000 solar evaluations. Customers are assigned a single person at the company that they can communicate with and hold accountable throughout the entire process.
- Est. 2002
- 2526 National Drive
Garland, TX 75041 - (972) 840-1500
Installs solar panels as well as provides a variety of other energy-saving services, including air conditioning and heating, solar vents and attic fans, attic insulation, radiant barriers and more. Services both residential and commercial customers.
- Est. 1955
- 315 W. Magnolia Ave.
Fort Worth, TX 76104 - (817) 869-9045
AirRite is a full-service air conditioning and heating services company that is also an authorized dealer and installer for the SunSource Home Energy System by Lennox. The SunSource system employs solar panels to generate electricity for home heating and cooling.
- Est. 2015
- 405 State Highway 121, Ste. A250
Lewisville, TX 75067 - (844) 554-6473
Alternatex Solutions provides residential and commercial solar PV installation throughout North Texas. The company offers over 30 years of solar industry experience along with BPI and DOE certification. Customers can take advantage of Alternatex’s free energy efficiency audit.
- Est. 1998
- 110 W. Randall Mill Road
Arlington, TX 76011 - (972) 712-5545
Apex Home Energy Savings offers solar PV installation throughout the Dallas-Ft. Worth area with offices in both Arlington and Ft. Worth. Additional products and services include heating and air conditioning, windows, radiant attic barriers and generators. Customers can receive a free energy audit.
- Est. 2007
- 2947 Blystone Lane
Dallas, TX 75220 - (214) 823-7663
Aspenmark Roofing & Solar is a one-stop-shop for customers looking to make their homes greener and more energy-efficient. The company offers solar energy systems in addition to roofing and insulation services. They also work on maintenance of solar energy systems, roof tiles, gutters, insulation and more.
- Est. 2008
- 1005 Placid Ave., Ste. 100
Plano, TX 75074 - (855) 633-8680
Axium Solar provides services for installation, energy storage and maintenance with available financing for potential clients. Axium Solar specializes in grid-connected solar panel installations. The company was founded from a 25-year-old electrical contracting company and is now a fully-licensed renewable energy company.
- Est. 2012
- 12344 E. Northwest Highway
Dallas, TX 75228-8004 - (866) 933-6344
Aztec Renewable Energy, Inc. considers itself a pioneer of renewable energy in the Lone Star State. They service the north Texas area in installation, engineering, electrical contracting and solar design for both residential and commercial entities.
- Est. 2003
- 2529 Merrell Road, #102
Dallas TX 75229 - (855) 766-3777
Baker Roofing and Construction is a full-service roofer that additionally installs solar PV panels for residential customers. Other services include home remodeling, attic foam, windows, air conditioner upgrades and more. Customers can receive a free energy inspection.
- Est. 1990
- 2834 E. Interstate Highway 20
Weatherford, TX 76087 - (817) 241-2303
Bronco Renewable Energy Solutions offers custom solar PV installation to both residential and commercial customers. Other related services include integrated solar roofing, HVAC, lighting, solar water heating and more. Bronco considers it their duty to keep fully informed of cutting edge techniques and technologies for the benefit of its customers.
- Est. 2009
- 3102 Maple Ave.
Dallas, TX 75201 - (866) 255-8166
Founded in Austin, Circular Energy originally provided solar consultation and design services to the architectural community. Today, the company provides turnkey solar design and installation services to homeowners and businesses throughout Texas.
- Est. 2012
- 2201 Long Prairie Road, Ste. 107-763,
Flower Mound, TX 75022-4832 - 888-480-5987
DFW Solar Electric serves the North Texas area in the installation and maintenance of solar energy systems. DFW offers several financial incentives for customers as part of its mission to make solar energy a viable option for everyone.
- Est. N/A
- 2414 Arbuckle Court
Dallas, TX 75229 - (214) 350-5095
Diversified Solar Solutions is a woman-owned HUB-certified solar installer that specializes in the design and installation of grid-tied PV systems. It offers turnkey service that includes permitting, solar procurement, monitoring, final inspection, rebate assistance and more. Diversified Solar Solutions is an authorized dealer for SolarWorld products.
- Est. 2008
- 3532 Irving Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75247 - (972) 922-3606
Eco Tech Roofing & Energy Solutions is a certified “certainteed” solar panel retailer and installer, as well as a full-service residential and commercial roofing contractor. Other related services include solar tubing installations, solar-powered fans, and solar-powered ventilation systems.
- Est. 2001
- 217 W. Interstate 20, #600
Weatherford, TX 76087 - (817) 304-0661
EcoVantage Energy offers a number of alternative energy products and services including both solar PV and wind energy systems. EcoVantage employs licensed electrical contractors with proven installation records and promises prompt person-to-person phone support.
- Est. 2001
- 10606 Shady Trail, #114
Dallas, TX 75220 - (214) 534-3277
Elite Solar Systems offers installation services as well as solar energy system products for both residences and commercial use. Not only do they tout strict permit compliance, but they also provide an app that allows customers to track their energy usage in comparison to how much they are generating.
- 538 Haggard St.
Plano, TX 75074 - (469) 215-5922
Full-service heating, cooling and insulation company, Energy Attic also installs residential solar PV systems. The company handles all required licenses and permits for its clients. Energy Attic serves the Dallas-Fort Worth area through its Plano office. Additional offices in Austin and in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
- Est. 1979
- 3310 Wiley Post Road
Carrollton, TX 75006
The Energy Shop began in 1979 as a solar water heater contractor. It now provides a variety of services including the design and installation of residential solar PV systems. The Energy Shop additionally offers other energy-saving products such as windows, doors, and skylights.
- Est. 1995
- 6800 Pentridge Drive
Plano, TX 75024 - (844) 201-4336
The Energy Supermarket offers a wide selection of energy efficiency products and services including solar PV design and installation, off-grid battery backup, solar shingles, solar screens, solar grills and more. The company serves both North and Central Texas, including the Austin, Houston and Dallas-Ft. Worth areas.
- Est. 1999
- 688 Stark Road
Dallas, TX 75336 - (972) 286-9933
EnTech offers a wide range of solar PV services including installation, engineering, design and consultation for grid-tied and hybrid off-grid systems, as well as generator backup systems. EnTech offers personal solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of the customer.
- Est. 2016
- 2518 Gravel Road
Fort Worth, TX 76118 - (888) 791-3684
Envismart provides residential solar PV installation and storage, as well as home security, automation, and energy management systems. The company offers free in-home assessments that include analyzing multiple issues including air sealing, HVAC, insulation, doors, windows, lighting and more. In addition to the Dallas-Ft. Worth area, Envismart services Austin, Houston and San Antonio.
- Est. 2008
- 709 S. Elm St.
Denton, TX 76201 - (940) 453-5434
Glean Power offers both residential and commercial solar PV sales and installation, as well as wind turbine systems. The company is a member of the Texas Renewable Energy Industry Association and its installers are certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners.
- Est. 2015
- P.O. Box 225306
Dallas, TX 75222 - (800) 220-9195
With the goal of American energy independence in mind, GoSolarGo does business with a commitment to American made products and job creation in addition to making solar energy systems more accessible. The company offers resources that will help potential customers find the right solar fit for their individual needs.
- Est. 2011
- 5101 E. University Drive, Ste. 605
Denton, TX 76208 - (214) 884-7336
Greeniverse specializes in the design and installation of solar energy systems for residential homes. They offer a variety of resources for those consumers looking to learn more about the importance, feasibility and return on investment.
- Est. N/A
- 1400 Preston Road, Ste. 400
Plano, TX 75093 - (888) 938-8249
GreenLeaf Energy Solutions offers turnkey solar PV design, sales and installation, allowing a seamless process for its customers. Other services include energy loss prevention, LED lighting, weatherization, windows and water heating solutions. Customers can schedule a free energy assessment.
- Est. 2014
- 1018 Harrison Ave., #504
Arlington, TX 76011 - (682) 222-7588
Green Wolf Energy sells and installs residential and business solar PV systems. The company’s sales goal is to make their customers comfortable by not pressuring them into a system lease and by offering free consultations. Green Wolf Energy is a family-owned business.
- Est. 2012
- 9025 Hampton Court
McKinney, TX 75071 - (512) 461-0743
Integrated Solar & Power is a full-service solar and electrical contractor owned and operated by a team of industry-certified master electricians with a combined experience of over 30 years. Integrated offers solar PV products from a wide range of companies including SolarWorld, LG, Enphase, Solar Edge, and more.
- Est. 1979
- 1915 Peters Road, Ste. 310
Irving, TX 75061 - (972) 251-1818
A full-service roofing, siding and windows company, Jon Wright Industries also offers both interlocking solar roof tiles and solar panels installation to residential customers. Solar roof tiles are integrated directly onto the roof as opposed to traditional solar panels that sit on top of the roof.
- Est. 2009
- 3933 Leon Road, #300
Garland, TX 75041 - (972) 850-7764
Longhorn Solar offers both residential and commercial solar PV design and installation. Headquartered in Austin, Longhorn Solar services the Dallas-Ft. Worth area through its offices in Garland. Customers can fill out a form on the company’s website to receive an online price quote.
- Est. 2007
- 705 N. Bowser Road, Ste. 121
Richardson, TX 75081 - (855) 253-6284
Native’s mission is to, “deliver high quality, resource-efficient homes and energy-saving solutions for its residential and commercial clients.” The company has worked on over 1,000 solar installations for a combined 8,180 kilowatts. Native service areas include Austin, San Antonio, as well as Dallas and its surrounding area.
- Est. 2015
- 5048 Golden Circle
Denton, TX 76208 - (940) 389-9337
North Texas Solar offers a number of solar PV related services including the design and installation of residential, commercial and rural solar arrays, both on- and off-grid, as well as off-grid battery backup systems. Customers receive a free estimate on request.
- Est. 2015
- 5000 Eldorado Parkway, Ste. 150
Frisco TX, 75033 - (972) 849-6703
Novos Energy helps its customers save money by investing in clean technology for both home and business. The company emphasizes educating and empowering its customers toward new and alternative energy solutions. Novos offers both leasing and purchase plans for residential solar systems.
- Est. 2011
- 325 N. St. Paul St., Ste. 3100
Dallas, TX 75201 - (888) 999-2902
O3 Energy Solutions offers development, construction and maintenance services for both residential and commercial clients in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. While they service a variety of large corporations, they have expanded to home services.
- Est. 1976
- 904 Katy St.
Lancaster, Texas 75146 - (877) 552-4418
What once began as a roofing company has now expanded to include solar installation as one of its primary specialties. The company also prides itself on its emphasis on the installation of American made products.
- Est. 2004
- 1201 Elm St., Ste. 3200
Dallas, TX 75270 - (800) 279-6284
Solarview is a solar energy company that performs both installations of solar energy systems in addition to being a licensed electrical contractor. As one of the older solar energy companies in the region, they have established themselves as a reputable organization dedicated to improving the environment through accessible solar energy.
- Est. 2003
- 5165 Live Oak St.
Dallas, TX 75203 - (469) 554-8658
Supreme Electric offers residential solar energy services in Dallas and many surrounding communities including Addison, Plano, Richardson, and Carrollton. The company provides a complete analysis of the customer’s home to verify proper specifications for panels, inverters and other components of the PV system.
- Est. 2012
- 3824 Cedar Springs Road
Dallas, TX 75219 - (214) 870-4332
SWG Energy Inc., a solar and wind energy contractor, has everything for those looking to pursue a greener way of living. Based in Southern California, SWG Energy operates in a number of cities throughout the U.S. It serves the Dallas area through its Cedar Springs Road offices.
DALLAS LIBRARY OF SOLAR RESOURCES
- Energy Fact Check – This site provides an in-depth look at Texas energy consumption and can prove a useful tool for homeowners looking to educate themselves in the importance of energy production.
- Texas Solar Energy Society – The TSES has made it its mission to educate the public and professionals on the importance of solar energy, and their website provides information on everything you need to know to make the switch.
- Take a Load Off, Texas – Oncor’s Take a Load Off, Texas resource explains the company’s solar programs.
- GreenSourceDFW – A resource promoting sustainability, a green lifestyle, eco-friendly businesses, and strong public policy discussions.
- GoSolarNorthTexas – Recognizing that North Texas is well suited for photovoltaic potential, GoSolarNorthTexas seeks to expand solar in the area to meet energy demands and improve energy stability and air quality.
- Green Dallas – Sustainability news from the City of Dallas.
- Power to Choose – The official website of the Public Utility Commission of Texas where electricity consumers can compare electric plans.