Texas Solar Buyback Programs (2026)
Published 2026-02-20 · Updated 2026-07-07 · MySunROI Research Team
Free quote comparison
Compare solar quotes in your area
Free — compare pre-screened local installers. No obligation.
MySunROI may earn a fee if you request quotes through partner links. See our disclaimer.
Texas does not run classic statewide net metering inside ERCOT. Your Retail Electric Provider (REP) sets solar buyback — some plans approach 1:1 energy credit, others pay a wholesale-ish export rate while you still buy imports at retail. That asymmetry is why MySunROI’s Texas math stresses self-consumption and REP shopping as hard as panel brand.
Buyback is a plan choice, not a roof choice
Before you sign an install contract, pull current REP solar plans and write down: export credit (¢/kWh or 1:1), whether credits expire annually, and any “solar” plan premium on the import rate. Green Mountain, TXU, and a rotating cast of competitive retailers publish solar-friendly products — names and rates churn, so verify at contract time.
Outside ERCOT (bits of the Panhandle, etc.) co-op and IOU rules differ again — never paste a Houston REP assumption onto a co-op meter.
Texas ROI playbook
Strong sun and competitive install pricing help production and $/W. Weak export rates punish oversized arrays. Aim production near annual kWh usage, consider west azimuth if evenings drive the bill, and keep the federal ITC in the net-cost step. Property-tax exemptions and local incentives can further improve ownership math — see state incentive notes.
- Compare at least two REP buyback plans before finalizing system size
- Normalize installer bids with quote comparison
- Texas solar costs
- Texas incentives
Solar costs by state
Frequently Asked Questions
Best REP for solar in Texas?
It changes — pick by current export credit, import rate, and contract term the month you interconnect.
Should I oversize for future EVs?
Only if your REP credits exports fairly or you will add load quickly; otherwise pre-wire and expand later.