7 Best Solar Companies in McAllen, TX (2024) - USA Today (2024)

To perform a high-quality solar panel installation in McAllen, Texas, you'll need a properly certified, qualified and experienced solar installer. We've put together a list of the best solar companies in McAllen to help you choose the right one.

Prior to hiring an installer, get referrals, review potential installers and obtain multiple quotes to identify the ideal company for you. You can pick a local McAllen solar company or choose a well-known national brand.

Even though solar panels are a big upfront investment, you can reduce your energy bills over the long run. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows that switching to solar energy lets McAllen homeowners to save about $1,200 per year.

The services from different solar technicians aren't all the same. Make sure to compare companies and get quotes before you set up your solar panel installation.

Find the top solar company for you in McAllen

When researching McAllen solar companies, look for those with a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, in addition to a decent reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Reading through previous customer reviews will provide a sense of how other homeowners felt about the company, so take note if you see a pattern of negative reviews.

What are the biggest reasons for going solar in McAllen?

Places with different sunshine levels, including rainy or cloudy areas like McAllen, can still benefit from solar power. The major reasons to adopt solar energy are:

• Reduce environmental impact: Adopting solar lowers your carbon footprint by saving fossil fuels that would be used to power your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), electricity production is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
• Save on energy bills: You can reduce your energy bills by switching to solar energy. Power from solar panels takes the place of the electricity bought from utility companies.
• Charge an electric vehicle: With a solar panel system, you can charge electric vehicles right from your home. Using your own solar power is the ideal method to guarantee your electric car is powered by clean, renewable energy.

How much does it cost to install solar panels in McAllen?

Our survey from October 2023 found that the national average price of solar panel installation is $11,743.

The price of installing solar panels differs based on several elements, including your location, sunlight exposure, roof direction, shading, system size and labor. Be prepared to pay extra if you choose any accessories like animal guards, solar trackers or batteries.

According to statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the EIA and NASA the mean cost to install solar panels in McAllen is $16,573.

How much can you save by going solar in McAllen?

Installing solar panels means sizable spending upfront, but you can recoup those costs through significant reductions in your energy bills down the line.

Money savings in McAllen from going solar

After moving completely to solar power, McAllen homeowners usually see cost savings. However, recovering the initial investment requires time, and things like rain and tree shade impact the timeline for seeing returns on your solar investment.

• Payback period: The average payback period is the length of time required for a solar panel system to recoup its upfront cost through energy bill savings. Based on our calculations, which utilize data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), NASA and the EIA, McAllen's standard solar payback period is 13 years.
• Annual solar savings in McAllen: Based on numbers that leverage data from the EIA, the Department of Energy and NASA, McAllen homeowners save around $1,242 annually with solar energy.
• Average total solar savings after 25 years: According to data we've compiled from NASA and the EIA, by switching fully to solar, you can expect to see a total savings of around $17,670 after 25 years.

Energy savings in McAllen from going solar

In addition to monetary savings, moving to solar energy decreases your carbon footprint and environmental impact. We've calculated the estimated CO2 emission reductions you can realize by going solar based on data from NASA and the EPA.

• CO2 emissions reduced per year: 89 lb/MWh
• CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 2225 lb/MWh

What solar incentives are available in McAllen?

Homeowners in McAllen can enjoy several solar incentives. Certain are available statewide for all Texas residents, and others are based on your utility company, city and municipality.

Accessible solar incentives to Texas homeowners, as stated by DSIRE, include:

What are common factors to consider before hiring a McAllen solar installer?

Consider these questions before hiring a solar installation expert.

What size system do you need?

The size of your system is determined by your household’s energy consumption and the solar panel system's production ratio. Larger households generally use more energy and may require a bigger setup. If the system isn’t large enough, it may not produce enough energy to power your entire house.

Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?

Your solar plans may be impacted by specific permits and state or local regulations. You must acquire proper permits through your local building department and arrange for an inspection.

Does your home get enough sunlight access?

Not all homes receive the same amount of sun. Nearby trees, rain conditions and harsh weather can affect sunlight access. If your property doesn’t get adequate sunlight, then you may need more panels with higher wattage.

Do you need a solar battery?

To conserve excess power, a lot of panel systems come equipped with a solar battery. This feature is invaluable during storms and helps to mitigate power loss. However, using battery storage may lead to increased installation costs.

Which type of solar panel do you want?

Several solar panel varieties are available, each differing in life expectancy, efficiency and design. These factors impact pricing, the rate of panel replacement and the amount of roof space you'll need.

Our methodology for selecting solar companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.

We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.