{"id":514,"date":"2022-11-14T09:52:58","date_gmt":"2022-11-14T15:52:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.texstarenergycorp.com\/?p=514"},"modified":"2022-11-14T09:53:00","modified_gmt":"2022-11-14T15:53:00","slug":"legal-requirements-for-installing-solar-panels-in-texas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.texstarenergycorp.com\/blog\/legal-requirements-for-installing-solar-panels-in-texas","title":{"rendered":"Legal Requirements for Installing Solar Panels in Texas"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Solar power is growing increasingly popular around the country. A recent Pew Research Center survey<\/a> found that 47% of U.S. homeowners have either installed a solar panel system or have given serious thought to doing so over the past year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In Texas, the warm climate and sunny skies offer a perfect setting for solar power. Homeowners can lower their electricity bills<\/a> and enjoy a greener energy alternative. There are many pros and cons to switching to solar in Texas<\/a>, but the benefits typically outweigh the costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019ve been considering a solar panel system, you may be wondering about the legal requirements involved. Thankfully, setting up your system is pretty easy in Texas, but there are still some things to know.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Use this blog to understand how to meet the rules and regulations of setting up a solar panel system in Texas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can I install a solar panel system myself in Texas?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Unfortunately, no. Even if you\u2019re handy and knowledgeable about electrical systems, you can\u2019t set up your own solar panels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though you can buy solar panels and learn how to install them yourself, doing so may cause significant problems. You may damage the panels or your home. You can also get into legal trouble for setting up your system without the proper permits and licensing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Instead, you should research and find a local qualified solar panel professional. These companies are licensed and certified to provide systems for Texas homes. With their legal qualifications, you\u2019ll know that they\u2019re qualified to set up your solar panels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plus, a solar panel professional will handle all of the permits and paperwork you need to install your system. Without their help, you can\u2019t meet your legal requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How can I find certified solar installers?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Numerous companies offer solar panel installation, but how do you know which ones meet local and federal requirements?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

First, these providers should hold an industry-standard certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). This certification means that they meet national standards for solar panel installation. You can ask the company about this certification before hiring them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Additionally, solar companies should have a Texas Electrical Contractor\u2019s License (TECL), awarded by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). You should be able to find the company\u2019s TECL number on all of its marketing materials, including business cards, websites, advertisements, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After verifying a solar installer\u2019s accreditations, look into their ratings and reviews. Qualified does not mean quality. Check the company\u2019s rating on the Better Business Bureau website, as well as customer reviews on Google, SolarReviews, and more. Ensure the company delivers a great product and experience before giving them your money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can homeowners associations (HOAs) restrict solar panels?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Homeowners associations can have significant power over what you do with your home and yard. If they don\u2019t approve your projects, they can fine you or even place a lien on your home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This control extends to solar panel systems as well. Previously in Texas, homeowners couldn\u2019t install solar power if their HOAs disapproved of the project. This left many Texans frustrated and stuck paying higher energy costs<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2011, Texas passed House Bill 362 to address this issue. This law prohibits HOAs, as well as property owners associations (POAs), from restricting solar panel systems. It also prevents these organizations from creating unreasonable restrictions on homeowners for solar energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To install a solar device in an HOA-controlled neighborhood, you still have to follow the association\u2019s normal processes for home improvement projects. You have to create a written request or application for the solar panel system, submitting it to the appropriate Architecture Review Committee or a similar organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Following the appropriate process doesn\u2019t guarantee HOA approval, however. Your neighborhood\u2019s committee still has legal grounds to deny your request if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n