Best 10 Solar Companies in San Antonio, TX

San Antonio homeowners are increasingly using solar panels to power their homes and heat their water. While switching to solar energy comes with upfront costs, local homeowners could ultimately save $990 per kilowatt on their electric bills. A professional installer can help you choose the best panels to maximize your savings. Discover San Antonio's top-rated solar companies and learn vital decision-making tips on this page.

Ranking Methodology

Our team has thoroughly vetted dozens of solar contractors near San Antonio, emphasizing the following criteria:

• Panel quality and brand offerings: The premier solar companies remain current on new technology, providing equipment from cutting-edge and trustworthy manufacturers.
• Reviews and feedback from customers: Most San Antonio solar installers have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio shows a company's reliability and responsiveness to issues.
• Service offerings and warranties: Solar installers should stand behind their equipment and services with warranties. We evaluated how each contractor responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on timeliness and customer happiness.
• Certifications and licenses: Each contractor on our list complies with state and city licensing requirements and keeps current with industry best practices. Many of them have served the San Antonio community for a decade or longer.
• Educational approach: Solar technicians must be good teachers. They should use their years of experience answer your questions on how to care for your system and optimize its performance.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy offers several advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

• Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power means you're less dependent on fossil fuels, which emit harmful greenhouse gasses.
• Lowered energy bills: You can dodge the premium cost of grid-tied power by creating some electricity right where you use it. Plus, many states provide net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back for credits on your bill.
• Better energy independence: Adding a battery storage system lets you have dependable energy during storms and grid outages.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to San Antonio Homeowners?

Texas agencies and electric companies offer numerous solar incentives to help reduce your solar system costs. Here's a breakdown of available solar programs where you live.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in San Antonio

The price and effectiveness of solar panels often rely on which company mounted them. Here are some key items to consider while searching for a solar installer.

Licensing and Training

All solar energy companies in Texas must have a state electrical contractors' license from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners regulates plumbing regulations and licensing standards for solar thermal installers. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private accreditations. Two of the most recognized are the Solar Heating Installer and PV Installation Professional certificates, backed by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.

Cost of Solar Panels in San Antonio

The kind of solar panels you purchase determines how much power you can produce. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't recommended for large residential installations, but they are ideal for small projects like converting RVs and sheds.

You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can boost your solar system's performance. Not all solar companies provide these optional components, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's a priority for you.

A majority of San Antonio homeowners select solar systems designed for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $16,650 to install, considering both materials and labor. You can find more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in San Antonio

Choosing the best financing solution will influence your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include power purchase agreements, cash payments, loans, and leases. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most economical choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the next best option. As with a home or auto loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for cost-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly fee to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in specific circumstances. Ask each business you're evaluating about the payment plans it offers. A consultant can help you determine the best option for your financial situation.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in San Antonio.

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy equipment until the year 2032. Local and state governments and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and unique financing solutions that could save you more.

Sources

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
• U.S. Department of Energy