5 Essential Things Before Going Solar in Texas
Going solar is one of the best investments you can make as a Texas homeowner. But like any major home improvement, it pays to be informed. Here are the five things you should know.
1. Your Roof Matters — But Not as Much as You Think
Many homeowners worry their roof isn't "solar-ready." Here's the truth:
- South-facing roofs are ideal, but east and west work well too
- Roof age — if your roof needs replacement in the next 5 years, do that first
- Shading — partial shading is manageable with microinverters
- Material — solar works on asphalt shingles, metal, tile, and flat roofs
ELITENRG provides a free roof assessment as part of every consultation. We'll tell you exactly what your roof can support.
2. Financing Makes Solar Accessible to Everyone
You don't need $20,000 in cash to go solar. Most ELITENRG customers use one of these options:
- $0 Down Solar Loan — monthly payments often less than your current electric bill
- Cash Purchase — best ROI, typically 6-8 year payback
- Home Equity Loan — potentially tax-deductible interest
With the 30% federal tax credit, a $20,000 system effectively costs $14,000. Monthly loan payments on that amount are typically $100-$150/month — less than most Texas electric bills.
3. The Process Is Simpler Than You Think
Many people think going solar involves months of disruption. Here's the actual timeline:
- Day 1: Free consultation and system design
- Week 1-2: Finalize design, apply for permits
- Week 3-4: Permits approved, schedule installation
- Installation day: 1-3 days for most residential systems
- Week 5-6: Inspection and utility approval
- System ON: Start generating solar power!
From signing to activation, the typical timeline is 4-6 weeks. The actual installation disruption? Just 1-3 days.
4. Not All Solar Companies Are Equal
When choosing a solar installer, look for:
- NABCEP certification — the gold standard in solar installation
- Local presence — a company that serves your area and knows local codes
- Warranty coverage — 25-year equipment AND labor warranty
- Transparent pricing — no hidden fees or pressure tactics
- Real customer reviews — check Google, BBB, and ask for references
ELITENRG checks every box. We're NABCEP certified, locally owned, and our Google reviews speak for themselves.
5. Texas Has Unique Solar Advantages
Texas is one of the best states for solar because of:
- 230+ sunny days per year — more solar production than most states
- No state income tax — the federal credit stretches further
- 100% property tax exemption — solar doesn't raise your property taxes
- Competitive electricity market — net metering credits available
- Strong solar irradiance — 5.4-5.5 peak sun hours daily
Plus, Texas has no HOA restrictions on solar panels — state law protects your right to go solar.
Ready to Get Started?
The best time to go solar was yesterday. The second-best time is today.
Get your free consultation from ELITENRG and take the first step toward energy independence.
