Why Solar Still Makes Financial Sense in Texas
- Paul Bristow
- Jan 2
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 6
With the elimination of the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) as of January 1, 2026, and ongoing debates around energy policies, some homeowners question if solar remains a smart move. The truth? For Dallas-Fort Worth area residents, solar paired with battery storage delivers real, tangible benefits: dramatic bill reductions, protection from rising rates, and true energy security during Texas' frequent grid disruptions. At Eco-NRGY Solutions, we've installed systems for many local families proving the numbers work – purely on economics and reliability, no subsidies required.
Solar Economics Stand Strong in 2026
Panel and installation costs have dropped sharply due to manufacturing scale and competition. A typical 10kW system in DFW now runs around $30,000 before any local incentives. In sunny North Texas, it produces 14,000-16,000 kWh annually – enough to cover most or all of a home's needs through direct self-consumption. The key shift in 2026: Traditional 1:1 net metering is largely gone, replaced by competitive solar buyback plans from retail providers. But smart system design maximizes what matters most – using the power you generate on-site, avoiding retail rates altogether. Modern inverters and apps shift loads automatically, letting you consume 70-90% of your production directly. Add battery storage, and that jumps even higher while providing blackout protection. Any excess exported earns credits through providers like Chariot Energy (top-rated for rollover credits and real-time pricing) or others with solid plans. Combined, this offsets rising electricity costs effectively. DFW average rates sit at 14-19¢/kWh in 2026, with forecasts pointing upward due to demand growth. A well-designed solar + battery system slashes your effective rate to near zero for decades.
System Size | Avg. Install Cost (2026, No ITC) | Annual Production (DFW) | Est. Annual Savings (Self-Consumption + Buyback/Battery) | Payback Period | Lifetime Savings (25+ Years) |
8kW | $24,000 | 11,000-13,000 kWh | $1,600-$2,000 | 10-13 years | $35,000+ |
10kW | $30,000 | 14,000-16,000 kWh | $2,000-$2,500 | 10-14 years | $45,000+ |
12kW | $36,000 | 17,000-19,000 kWh | $2,400-$3,000 | 11-15 years | $55,000+ |
Estimates based on current DFW data; actuals vary by roof, usage, and provider plan. Savings assume optimized self-consumption and battery storage. Payback typically lands in the 10-15 year range – conservative, with many clients hitting under 12 years via financing and local rebates.
Maximize Savings Through Self-Consumption and Smart Storage
Today's solar success hinges on using your power when it's produced. Batteries store midday excess for evening peaks, bypassing grid rates entirely. In 2026's market:
Self-consume 70-90% of production for full retail avoidance.
Export remainder for credits via plans like Chariot's Shine (real-time rates, often strong in summer) or fixed-credit options.
Result: Near-zero bills for many, plus hedge against 3-5% annual rate hikes.
We've seen Fort Worth and Plano homes drop monthly bills from $200+ to under $20, even post-ITC.
True Grid Independence: Power Security in an Unreliable System
Texas grid challenges persist into 2026 – surging demand from growth strains ERCOT, raising blackout risks during extremes.
Solar alone reduces dependence, but adding battery storage delivers uninterrupted power. A 10-15kWh battery keeps essentials (lights, fridge, AC, Wi-Fi) running for hours or days during outages. No generators, no fuel lines, no noise.
Clients who've experienced recent disruptions report staying comfortable while neighbors went dark. It's practical insurance in a state where weather events hit hard.
A Long-Term Hedge and Asset
With rates trending up and grid volatility ongoing, solar locks in
costs. Systems boost home value 3-4% on average, with 25-year panel warranties and 10+ for batteries.
Financing options often make monthly payments lower than your pre-solar bill from day one.
Take Control with Eco-NRGY Solutions
Solar in 2026 isn't about old-school subsidies – it's a proven strategy for bill control, rate protection, and blackout-proof security. At Eco-NRGY Solutions, we design systems around current realities: heavy on self-consumption, battery integration, and the best provider match for your usage.
Contact us for a free, no-pressure analysis. We'll model your exact savings and show real DFW results. In uncertain times, generate your own certainty – let's talk today. Call us at 817-773-4217 or through our website at www.eco-NRGY.com.
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