CenterPoint Energy (TDU) Service Area · Harris County
Home Solar + Battery Storage in Houston, TX
Make your own power, store it in battery backup, and keep your home running through grid outages and Texas summer heat. Houston is served by CenterPoint Energy (TDU) — homes here pay an estimated $190/mo today. VoltSol connects you with a licensed local installer who handles your quote, contract, and installation.
* Electricity bill figures are regional estimates only, not guarantees.
Home Solar + Battery Storage in Houston — Local Estimates
These are illustrative regional estimates — not guarantees. Your actual savings depend on usage, roof orientation, shading, system size, and future utility rate changes.
- Avg monthly bill*
- $190
- Typical system size*
- 8 kW
- Peak sun hrs/day*
- 5.3
Why Solar + Battery Storage in Houston?
- ●High sun exposure: Houston averages an estimated 5.3 peak sun hours per day — strong solar production potential year-round.
- ●High local utility rates: CenterPoint Energy (TDU) customers in Houston pay an estimated $0.14/kWh, making solar self-consumption economics strong. Harris County is in the deregulated ERCOT market. CenterPoint Energy delivers power as the wires-only Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU), but you choose your own Retail Electric Provider (REP) which sets your solar buyback rate. Solar export rates vary widely by REP and plan -- shop for a REP with a competitive solar buyback plan to maximize your savings. Illustrative residential rate range: $0.12-$0.16/kWh depending on REP and plan choice.
- ●Deregulated market choice: across most of Texas you pick your Retail Electric Provider, and solar buyback rates vary widely by plan — so the reliable value is in storing and using your own power. Ask your local installer about current federal and state incentives; consult a tax professional for your situation.
- ●Home value: Studies suggest homes with owned solar systems sell for more than comparable homes without — though results vary by market.
When the grid goes down, your lights stay on
Winter Storm Uri and hurricane-season outages have left Houston-area homes without power for hours — sometimes days. A solar + battery system keeps your fridge, lights, and Wi-Fi running while the grid is down. No generator, no fuel runs, no scramble.
Local Details for Houston
Utility Rate
CenterPoint Energy (TDU): Estimated $0.14/kWh residential rate. Harris County is in the deregulated ERCOT market. CenterPoint Energy delivers power as the wires-only Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU), but you choose your own Retail Electric Provider (REP) which sets your solar buyback rate. Solar export rates vary widely by REP and plan -- shop for a REP with a competitive solar buyback plan to maximize your savings. Illustrative residential rate range: $0.12-$0.16/kWh depending on REP and plan choice.
Permit Office
City of Houston Permitting Center (City of Houston (unincorporated areas via Harris County)). Typical turnaround: 2-6 weeks, varies by jurisdiction. Houston and other incorporated cities in Harris County each have their own building departments. Permit timelines vary -- confirm with your local jurisdiction. Your installer manages the application.
Climate Zone
Hot-humid Gulf Coast climate: Hot, humid summers with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. High cooling demand from May through September. Hurricane and tropical storm risk requires wind-rated equipment. Coastal humidity and salt air require corrosion-resistant hardware. Battery backup is valuable for multi-day post-storm outages.
Frequently Asked Questions — Houston
Do I need a permit for solar in Houston?
Yes. The City of Houston Permitting Center handles solar permits. Typical turnaround is 2-6 weeks. Your installer submits the application and manages the approval process.
Is solar + battery storage worth it in Houston?
Yes. Houston's hot summers drive high cooling costs. Solar directly offsets your air conditioning load. Battery backup is especially valuable for hurricane season -- Winter Storm Uri and past hurricanes have caused multi-day outages. You choose your own REP, so shop for a plan with a competitive solar buyback rate.
How much sun does Houston get for solar?
Houston averages an estimated 5.3 peak sun hours per day. Despite occasional cloud cover from Gulf moisture, solar production is strong year-round, with peak output in summer when cooling demand is highest.
Tax credit, exemption, and incentive information is general and subject to change. Consult a licensed tax professional and your county appraisal district (or equivalent local authority) for guidance specific to your situation.
How It Works
- 1Submit your info: Fill out the quick form — takes under 2 minutes.
- 2Get matched: We share your request with one licensed solar contractor serving Houston.
- 3Free consultation: Your contractor contacts you to assess your home and provide a no-obligation quote.
- 4Go solar: If the numbers work, move forward on your timeline — no pressure.