Solar. What to Know

BARTLETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE IS NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY SOLAR COMPANIES.
We do not send representatives door-to-door to sell solar systems.

If you are considering installing a solar or distributed generation (DG) system, it is important to research your options before getting started.

Understanding the cost, system design, and financial considerations will help you make the best decision for your property. This includes selecting the right renewable energy technology, exploring financing options, reviewing available tax credits and incentives, and understanding requirements such as insurance and interconnection.

Improving your home’s energy efficiency before installing solar can help reduce overall costs. Simple upgrades like insulation, sealing air leaks, and using energy-efficient appliances can lower your energy use and reduce the size of the system needed to meet your energy needs.

Things to Consider Before Install

Before installing a solar or photovoltaic (PV) system, it’s important to understand your goals, costs, and how your system will work with your electric service.

Your Goals

Reduce your electric bill
Lower long-term energy costs
Support environmental goals
Provide backup power during outages

System Costs

A typical 10 kW solar system costs about $25,000–$35,000
Adding a battery backup system may cost an additional $2–$4 per watt

Space Requirements

Solar systems require adequate roof or ground space
Each 1 kW needs about 50–70 square feet
A 10 kW system typically requires 500–700 square feet

Tax Credits & Incentives

Federal and state solar incentives and tax credits may be available
Programs vary by location and may change over time
Visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency for current Texas incentives
Always consult your solar provider and tax advisor

How Solar Works with BEC

Most systems will not provide 100% of your electricity needs
You will still rely on BEC power:
- At night
- During cloudy weather
- During periods of high energy use
Solar systems are grid-connected, meaning:
- Electricity can flow both ways
- You remain connected to BEC’s system
- BEC policies apply for interconnection and excess energy

Questions to ask your Solar Contractor

Questions to Ask Your Solar Contractor

When working with a solar contractor, asking the right questions can help you choose a qualified provider and avoid costly mistakes. Use the questions below to evaluate experience, reliability, and system design.

Company Experience & Credentials

How long have you been in business in Texas?
Are you a licensed contractor in Texas?
Can you provide local references or examples of successful solar installations?

Installation & Workforce

Who will install the system at my home?
Are installers employees or subcontractors?
If subcontractors are used, do they regularly work with your company?
Does your company carry insurance, including general liability (at least $1 million) and professional liability?

System Design & Planning

What size and type of solar system do you recommend for my home, and why?
What preparation or upgrades are needed before installation?
Can the system be expanded later if my energy usage changes?

Costs, Incentives & Warranties

What is the total cost of the system and installation?
What tax credits, rebates, or incentives are available?
What warranties are offered for equipment and installation?

Installation Process & Requirements

What work hours and installation timeline should I expect?
Could installation impact my roof, and who is responsible for repairs?
What permits are required, and who handles the application and associated fees?

Avoid Solar Scams

Be cautious of misleading claims and sales tactics used by some solar installers. Bartlett Electric Cooperative is not affiliated with any solar companies and will never sell solar products or partner with door-to-door sales representatives.

If you have questions about claims made by a solar salesperson, contact us at (254) 527-3551 for guidance.

Common Solar Sales Tactics to Watch For

False claims about excessive increases in utility rates
Encouraging you not to contact BEC for verification
Unrealistic or misleading projected savings
High-pressure sales tactics that rush you into signing a contract
Claims that solar will eliminate your electric bill or generate guaranteed income

How to Set Up Solar

Step 1: Submit Your Application

To begin, email solar@bartlettec.coop with your completed Member Application and system design attached.

Review the Distributed (DG) Tariff and DG Procedures & Guidelines Manual for requirements.

Step 2: Application Fee

Once your application is received, a $200 application fee will be applied to your account.

STEP 3: Review & Approval

After your payment is processed, BEC will review your application and system design. You will receive approval before moving forward with installation.

STEP 4: Request Inspection

After construction is complete, email solar@bartlettec.coop to request a system inspection.

Step 5: Inspection & Meter Setup

Within 10–12 business days, Bartlett Electric Cooperative will:

- Conduct an inspection

- Install a bi-directional meter for your solar system

STEP 6: Final Approval

Once the system passes inspection, you will receive a confirmation email with authorization to operate your system.

Solar FAQs

Solar energy systems, also known as photovoltaic (PV) systems, generate electricity when sunlight hits solar panels and causes an electric current to flow.

The electricity produced by the panels is direct current (DC), which is converted into alternating current (AC) by an inverter so it can be used by household appliances.

The electrical panel distributes electricity throughout your home. If your system produces more energy than you use, the excess electricity may be sent back to the Bartlett Electric Cooperative grid.

During a power outage, most grid-connected solar (photovoltaic or PV) systems will automatically shut down and stop producing electricity.

Bartlett Electric Cooperative requires solar systems to include an AC disconnect. This safety feature prevents electricity from flowing back onto power lines that have been de-energized during an outage.

This protection is essential to keep line crews and the public safe while repairs are being made. Without it, backfed electricity could cause serious injury or damage.

Effective January 1, 2023, the price paid by the Cooperative for any excess energy produced by the Member shall be the Cooperative’s avoided energy cost of wholesale energy for generation. The Cooperative will pay the member at a current rate of 4.81 cents per kWh monthly for all the metered kWh output and will apply it to the account as a credit.

Solar panels produce less electricity on cloudy days and do not generate power at night. This means your solar system may not meet all of your energy needs during these times.

With a grid-connected system, Bartlett Electric Cooperative continues to provide power whenever your solar system is not producing enough energy, ensuring reliable service 24/7.

Systems with battery storage can store excess energy produced during sunny periods for use at night or during cloudy conditions. However, adding battery storage increases the overall cost and maintenance of the system.

Most solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are designed to last around 25 to 30 years, with many panels continuing to produce electricity beyond that timeframe.

Solar panels are tested to withstand real-world conditions such as hail, high winds, and temperature changes. Most manufacturers offer warranties of 20 to 25 years, with extended options sometimes available.

Solar systems require minimal maintenance. Occasional cleaning may be needed to remove dust and debris. Other components, such as inverters, may have a shorter lifespan and may need replacement sooner.

Because solar panels can last as long as or longer than your roof, it is important to ensure your roof is in good condition or plan for potential replacement during the life of the system.

Several factors can impact how effective a solar system will be for your home.

The direction your home faces plays a key role in how much sunlight your system receives. Homes with greater sun exposure typically produce more energy and operate more efficiently.

The condition of your roof is also important. A roof in good condition will support a solar installation and help avoid future replacement costs.

Obstructions such as trees, nearby buildings, or other structures can block sunlight, especially during peak production hours between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM, reducing system performance.

Your solar contractor can provide a detailed site analysis to evaluate sunlight exposure and determine if a solar system is a good fit for your property.