It’s time to go solar

Texas has the greatest solar resource potential in the nation. We can protect our environment and move to a cleaner energy future by using our technological know how to tap into solar energy. From the NASA researchers innovating new solar technologies at Johnson Space Center to the small businesses installing solar panels on Texas rooftops, solar power is already a reality here in Texas. Attracted by its clean, reliable, and independent energy, solar is being used by schools, homes, even the oil industry! The Legislature helped create a boom for wind power in Texas. Now it’s time for them to help Texas Go Solar by creating incentives for homeowners and businesses to install solar power. A small investment now could bring billions in investment to the state over the next decade and help bring clear, blue skies back to Texas. 

Building a Solar Economy 

The price of solar panels has declined dramatically over the last two decades, but it is still not cost-effective for most homeowners and businesses. However, with incentives from the state of Texas, solar can get the kick-start it needs to get up and running. With growth in demand, the economies of scale will help make solar affordable for everybody. Environment Texas is working to get the Public Utility Commission to establish a solar energy fund that provides incentives for consumers who install solar systems.

Solar can bring blue skies to Texas 

Solar power is pollution free and unlike coal or nuclear power, has no water requirements. By reducing demand for fossil fuels, the solar energy fund will help protect Texas’ environment and reduce the pollution that causes smog and global warming.

Solar can renew our economy

From chemical companies on the Houston Ship Channel producing solar-grade polysilica, to central Texas semiconductor manufacturers producing photovoltaic panels, to rural farmers helping power entire cities with large-scale solar plants built on their land, Texas has the "right stuff" to
become a world solar leader. Texas receives more solar radiation than any
other state and is number one in terms of its solar potential. Texas is a natural world leader in this important industry, but as the rest of the global solar industry is growing at an astounding rate, Texas has not kept pace and lacks a clear roadmap for the future.

By using our wildcatting nature and renewable resource endowments, we can develop a robust, broad-based technology industry, creating opportunities from sand (silicon production) to demand (solar installation) that is much larger and broader than our booming wind industry.

Austin program is model for Texas 

Austin’s municipally owned utility has a very successful solar rebate program that has helped hundreds of homeowners, schools and businesses install solar panels. After Austin’s rebate and federal tax credits, an average 3 kilowatt residential solar system on an 1800 square foot house costs about $7000. If the solar system is financed, savings on the electric bill are greater than the monthly payments on your loan, which means you save money from day one. However, solar rebates aren't available in many parts of Texas, so most folks aren’t able to affordably install solar. 

How you can help 

The Public Utility Commission will make major decisions about Texas’ energy future in the next few months. They need to hear from you that you want Texas to Go Solar. You can help by taking the following actions:

… Support Environment Texas. Our contributing members make our research and advocacy possible.

… Volunteer. Call our office to find out how you can do more to help Texas Go Solar.