With the cost of solar panels dropping in recent years, many homeowners are wondering whether going solar is really worth it.
Solar panels allow you to generate your own electricity, dramatically reducing your monthly energy bills. Most systems pay for themselves in six to 12 years, and the long-term savings can be substantial. That said, your actual savings depend on several factors. Here’s what you need to know to estimate your potential return.
Location and Climate
Your location and climate are two of the most important factors in the amount of power your solar panels can produce. In places with frequent cloud cover, like the Pacific Northwest, solar panels may not be as cost-effective. Here in the Dallas area, we average about 230 sunny or partially sunny days per year. That’s a big advantage. Our mild winters and minimal cloud cover also help ensure consistent solar output throughout the year.
Electricity Rates and System Size
The cost of electricity and the size of your solar system directly impact your savings. In Texas, the average rate is about $.16 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). The more electricity you offset from the grid, the more you save. If your solar system covers all or most of your daily energy needs, it’s common to cut your electric bills in half or more. Over 25-year lifespan, your savings could exceed $100,000.
Roof Pitch and Panel Placement
Not all roofs are ideal for solar. For best performance, panels should be installed on a south, west, or east -facing slope.
Shading from trees or nearby buildings can also limit output. In some cases, an east- or west facing orientation may actually yield better performance than south if those sides get more direct sunlight throughout the day.
Roof Condition
While roof condition doesn’t impact energy production, it does affect your overall investment. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, we strongly recommend replacing it before going solar. This helps you avoid the cost and hassle of removing and reinstalling panels later on.
Net Metering and Solar Battery Storage
Texas offers net metering. These programs compensate you for the excess electricity your system sends back to the grid, either with credits or cash. While buyback rates are often lower than standard rates, they still boost your overall savings.
If your provider doesn’t offer an attractive solar buyback program and you are interested in having backup power, adding battery storage can be a smart move. Batteries let you store excess power for use later, even at night or during outages. Although batteries add to your upfront cost, they can help you maximize your solar investment, especially if you’re aiming for energy independence.
You can also use battery storage to strategically manage your power use. For example, if your utility charges more during peak hours, you can store solar power during off-peak times and use it later to avoid higher rates.
Ready to Explore Solar?
If you’re thinking about installing solar panels, KPost Company is here to guide you through every step. We’ve been serving the Dallas area with professional solar and roofing solutions since 2004. Whether you’re interested in traditional solar panels or Tesla Solar Roof systems, we’ll design the right solution for your home or business—and your budget.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out how much you could save with solar.
