Support Us Button Widget

The TL;DR on solar panel installation in San Antonio

Learn more about the benefits, regulations, and steps for installing solar panels in San Antonio.

Someone in the middle of laying a solar panel down on a roof next to already installed panels.

Do you know the requirements for installing solar panels in the Alamo City? | Photo by Bill Mead

The Texas sun is already pushing us to crank up the AC, and we don’t even want to think about what it will do to our energy bill. If you’re a local, it might be time to consider your options when it comes to electricity — solar electricity.

What’s solar power, and how does it help?

Solar power harnesses the sun’s radiation to help reduce the cost of energy, contribute to a resilient electrical grid, and generate backup power.

There are upfront costs for equipment (like photovoltaics or various types of panels) and installation, but users report savings over time in their energy bills and the associated 22%-30% federal tax credit.

Here in San Antonio, the startup cost for a 5-kilowatt system is approximately $10,684 up front, usually paid off in just under nine years. Estimated savings over 25 years add up to $48,121.

You can estimate your specific cost and savings based on location and usage with this calculator.

The camera stands over someone's shoulder as they type on a computer showing a bar graph.

Check the numbers and see what solar power system best suits your needs. | Photo by CPS Energy

Local regulations

Installing solar power in San Antonio requires a qualified registered contractor to check your home and the selection of the system you want.

CPS Energy is not a manufacturer, supplier, installer, nor guarantor of the solar panel system. However, through its Simply Solar Program, you can research different resources + benefits for the system that best fits your needs.

Getting started

In Texas, solar panels are typically installed on the south side of the roof for maximum sun exposure. Double-check with your neighborhood or homeowner’s association for specific guidelines when it comes to street-facing installations.

A qualified solar installer — like Big Sun Solar and GreenLight Solar — can help determine the appropriate size panel based on your energy consumption, roof size, and solar exposure.

Check out SolarReviews or EcoWatch to compare prices and ratings of local companies, or explore Forbes’ top recommendations.

More from SATXtoday
Creative and entrepreneurial minds have invented some incredible stuff in the Alamo City.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
San Antonio is the birthplace of many regionally and nationally renowned companies — here are just a few.
Root for your favorite NFL or college team at one of these Alamo City watering holes
Sponsored
The popular social media site has many ongoing conversations, so we found responses to some trending Reddit questions in San Antonio.
Whether you’re on the hunt for whiskey, tequila, gin, rum, or something entirely different, we’ve found a Texas-owned spirit to sip.
Is it your lifelong dream to attend the World Cup? Well, it’s coming to Texas — and it could come true.
These fastest-growing local companies have soared to new heights, according to Inc. 5000’s most recent list.