Solar panel cost in Waco, TX (2026)
A typical Waco home needs about a 9.7 kW system (~24 panels), costing roughly $26,190 upfront or $25,690 after state incentives. The 30% federal credit ended for purchases on Dec 31, 2025 (a lease/PPA can still pass it through). At 4.85 peak sun hours and Texas's 14.6¢/kWh rate, it pays back in about 14.9 years and saves an estimated $33,052 over 25 years.
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| Annual electricity use | 13,644 kWh |
| Annual solar production | 13,596 kWh |
| Gross system cost | $25,920 |
| Federal tax credit (purchase) | Ended Dec 2025 |
| State / local incentives | – $500 |
| 30% via lease/PPA instead | ~$7,776 value |
| CO₂ avoided per year | 4.8 tons (~79 trees) |
Estimates only — not a quote or financial advice. See our methodology.
What makes Waco different
Waco (population ~132,356) gets 4.85 peak sun hours per day — that's 8% less sunny than the Texas average of 5.3. Slightly less local sunlight means panels produce a touch less than the state average, so sizing and orientation matter. Electricity rates, net metering, and incentives are set at the Texas level: residents pay about 14.6¢/kWh, and no state mandate; utility solar buyback plans + local rebates.
| City peak sun hours | 4.85 hrs/day |
| Recommended system size | 9.7 kW (~24 panels) |
| Installed price per watt | $3/W |
| Gross system cost | $26,190 |
| Federal tax credit (purchase) | Ended Dec 31, 2025 |
| State / local incentives | – $500 |
| Net cash cost | $25,690 |
| 30% credit via lease/PPA | ~$7,857 value |
| Annual energy produced | 13,737 kWh |
| Estimated year-1 savings | $1,728 |
| Payback period | 14.9 years |
| 25-year net savings | $33,052 |
| CO₂ avoided per year | 4.8 tons (~79 trees) |
Compare with the Texas state average (8.8 kW, $23,260 net, 13.5-yr payback). Modeled estimates, June 2026 — not a quote. See methodology.
Compare real solar quotes in Waco, TX
See actual prices from vetted local installers — including lease and PPA options that still capture the 30% credit in 2026. Free, no obligation.