Solar Payback Period in Plano, Texas: When Does It Pay Off?
Plano, Texas — Oncor service area
When Does Solar Pay Off in Plano?
A 7kW system in Plano costs approximately $21,000 at $3/watt. With annual savings of $1,368 (based on Oncor Electric Delivery's 12.0¢/14.0¢ rate tiers), the break-even point is approximately 15.4 years.
Without Solar: Projected Oncor Electric Delivery Bills
Oncor Electric Delivery rates have increased 22% (2014-2024). If that trend continues, the average Plano bill looks like this:
| Year | Est. Monthly Bill (no solar) | With Solar |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 (today) | $160/mo | ~$34/mo |
| 2031 (5 years) | $177/mo | ~$34/mo |
| 2036 (10 years) | $195/mo | ~$34/mo |
| 2041 (15 years) | $216/mo | ~$34/mo |
Projections use the 22% (2014-2024) 10-year CAGR as a straight-line estimate. Actual rate changes vary. Solar bill estimates assume fixed system output.
The Compounding Advantage
The payback period calculation above uses today's rates. In reality, as Oncor Electric Delivery rates rise each year, your solar savings grow too — because every kWh your panels produce is worth more. This means the effective payback period is typically shorter than the static calculation suggests, and the 25-year savings figure grows significantly with each rate increase.
More Plano Solar Guides
Ready to See Real Numbers for Plano?
Estimates on this page are based on local averages. A licensed installer will give you exact numbers for your home.
Calculate My Savings