April 23, 2024

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Today’s Forecast

Harness the power of the sun

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

It’s no secret that the Texas sun is about to torture us again this year, pushing us to crank up the AC. We don’t even want to think about what it will do to our energy bill. Many locals may be thinking it’s time to consider the options when it comes to electricity — solar electricity.

We’re here to breakdown the rules + regulations to help you understand the basics of solar electricity in San Antonio.

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 both in their energy bills, and the associated 22%-30% federal tax credit.

Here in San Antonio, that startup cost is approximately $11,315-$13,830 up front — usually paid off in six to eight years. Estimated savings over 25 years is anywhere between $26,187 and $32,006.

CPS Energy Stock — Check the numbers and see what solar power system best suits your needs.
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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.

Asked

Have you considered installing solar panels on your home?

A. I’m considering it
B. I already have them installed
C. It’s not for me

Charge your answer

Events

Tuesday, April 23

BQD Takeover | Tuesday, April 23 | 3-10 p.m. | Best Quality Daughter, 602 Ave. A, San Antonio | Free | For one night only, enjoy a special menu curated by “Hell’s Kitchen” alumna Chef Mary Lou Davis — reservations are highly encouraged.
MarioKart Tournament | Tuesday, April 23 | 5:30 p.m. | Bibliotech South, 3505 Pleasanton Rd., San Antonio | Free | Choose your player wisely at this bi-monthly video game tournament that’s open to all ages and includes prizes.
Fiesta Especial Celebration Day | Tuesday, April 23 | 6-8 p.m. | Alamodome Parking Lot C, 100 Montana St., San Antonio | Free | Join disABILITYsa for a sensory escape room, disability-friendly first-aid station, rides with low lights + sounds, food, and drinks.

Wednesday, April 24

Copa’s 19th Birthday Bash | Wednesday, April 24-Saturday, April 27 | 3-11 p.m. | Copa Wine Bar, 19141 Stone Oak Pkwy., San Antonio | Free | Party all week long at this local wine bar with 19% off all wine bottles, $19 sangria carafes, and mixed grill food special.
Paseo 2024 Community Planning Meeting | Wednesday, April 24 | 6 p.m. | Rinconcito de Esperanza, 816 S. Colorado St., San Antonio | Free | Join community leaders + neighbors to discuss and plan the 15th anniversary of Paseo por el Westside.
National Parks Trivia | Wednesday, April 24 | 7 p.m. | Tandem, 310 Riverside Dr., San Antonio | Free | Test your knowledge on wild life, history, natural landmarks, and the science of our nation’s parks.

Events calendar here

Click here to have your event featured.

News Notes

Open

The Pullman Market opens today at the Historic Pearl. The 40,000-sqft farmers market includes a grocer, whole animal butcher, a sourdough bakery, and more. Don’t miss two of the market’s four restaurants, Fife & Farro and Mezquite, that are also set to open today.

Sports

Victor Wembanyama was selected as a finalist for two 2023-24 Kia NBA awards: Rookie of the Year + Defensive Player of the Year. Tune into TNT as they begin announcing the winners of each category today during its coverage of the 2024 NBA Playoffs.

Concert

Musical Bridges Around the World is hosting its final Russell Hill Rogers Musical Evenings performance of the season on Sunday, May 12, at 7 p.m. at the San Fernando Cathedral. Listen to the Mexican singer/songwriter Magos Herrera and her jazz trio was they perform pieces from her 11th album “Aire.”

Number

250,000+. That’s how many people were estimated to attend the 79th Texas Cavaliers River Parade last night while another 300,000 watched from home. The parade benefits more than 100 children’s charities each year. This year’s theme was Viva America – Great American Landmarks. (KENS 5)

Listen

The Aggies’ offensive line adds depth with the addition of transfers Koli Faaiu (center) and Jante Newman (offensive tackle). Get the latest news, analysis, and insider information for the Texas A&M Aggies with Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.

Finance

We get it—adulting is hard. But you can help set your kids up for success by teaching them the financial skills they need to know. Spark your child’s financial curiosity with these four easy tips from the experts at United Texas Credit Union.*

The Buy

The Maizie Clarke Collection. If you’re looking for ways to prepare for the Kentucky Derby, this brand has the sweetest derby-inspired products.

The Wrap

Today’s edition by:
Nicholas

From the editor

San Antonio gets a lot of sun as it is, and it would be great to see more solar panel installations across the city like Sea World’s solar-covered parking lot.

Where would you like to see a solar canopy? Let us know.

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